Brainchild of the late Leopold de Rothschild 22 years ago, our narrow gauge engines that travel on the Rhododendron Line depart from Exbury Central, a replica of Aviemore Station as it would have appeared in Victorian times.
The trains travel on an extended 1.5 mile track through the gardens, meandering through the Summer Lane Garden (only accessible by train) before skirting past the Rock Garden, travelling through the tunnel and then stopping off at Exbury North to refuel. The return journey includes a loop around Dragonfly Pond, where passengers can watch out for wildlife, before heading back to Exbury Central.
Our steam railway now stops at Dragonfly Halt and Exbury North stations, allowing passengers to alight and visit the northernmost section of the gardens (including Dragonfly Pond). Passengers can ride a later train back to Exbury Central station but please note that we cannot guarantee that there will be spaces available.
Steam Railway Facts
Built in 2001
1 1/2 miles of track
Platform inspired by Aviemore Station in Scotland
Inspiration of enthusiast Leopold de Rothschild
Seats up to 90
12 1/4" gauge
Additional information:
Admission onto the steam train is only permitted by visitors who have purchased admission to the gardens and paid for a railway ticket, costing £6.50 per person.
In exceptional circumstances, such as hot or dry weather, Exbury Gardens may use a diesel engine instead of a steam locomotive to reduce any risk of fire.
