PLAN YOUR DAY
Frequently asked questions
A little help before you hop aboard.
Looking for booking terms, refunds or privacy information? Read our policies and visitor information.
General
What are your current opening times and dates?
You can visit us 7 days a week until 1 November 2026. We look forward to welcoming you!
Is the railway accessible for wheelchair users?
Yes, our railway is accessible for wheelchair users. Our train has two wheelchair compartments with additional seats.
At Heatherslaw, we have 3 hard-standing disabled parking spaces and a path to the platform (please note the car park is gravel). Our staff will assist in getting wheelchairs onto the platform. While there are no onsite public toilets, disabled toilets are available at the Visitor Centre.
At Etal, there is a long uphill gravel path between Etal Station and Etal village. We have no public toilets onsite, but disabled toilets are available in Etal Village.
When do the trains depart?
🚂 Heatherslaw ⇄ Etal Castle (round trip of ~4 miles, approx. 20–25 minutes one way)
Departing Heatherslaw: - Morning: 11:00 am, 12:00 pm - Afternoon: 1:00 pm, 2:30 pm, 3:30 pm
Departing Etal: - Morning: 11:30 am, 12:30 pm - Afternoon: 1:30 pm, 3:00 pm, 4:00 pm
Is it necessary to book tickets in advance?
Ordinary train tickets do not need advance booking and are currently sold at Heatherslaw ticket office. If you board at Etal, you can buy your ticket on arrival at Heatherslaw. Events and driving experiences can be booked online through their pages on this website. For groups of 10 or more, please contact info@heatherslawlightrailway.co.uk.
Are your tickets one-way or round-trip?
Single and return tickets are available. With a return ticket, you can get off and return later the same day, subject to space and the remaining train timetable. Please check the journey type when buying your ticket.
Are dogs allowed on the train?
Yes dogs are allowed and travel free. Please note that dogs should be kept on a short lead whilst on the train to ensure they do not jump out!
Can I pay with cash or card?
Yes, we accept both cash and card payments.
Loyalty Programme
What is HLR Loyalty Points?
HLR Loyalty Points is our rewards scheme for customers. When you purchase tickets or products, you collect points that can be redeemed for money off future tickets and free goodies.
Parking
Where can I park when visiting the railway?
Parking is available at Heatherslaw Station. We also have 3 hard-standing disabled parking spaces close to the station, and the car park surface is gravel, so please allow a little extra time when arriving.
Experiences
Do I need to book the Driver Experience Day in advance?
Yes, advance booking is required. Our Driver Experience Day includes a safety briefing and shed tour, followed by hands-on time learning to fire, prepare, and drive the locomotive with an instructor.