Are children allowed on the Mince Pie Specials?

Yes, children are welcome and receive complimentary juice and a biscuit during the trip.

Can I get off the train and reboard later?

Absolutely. Tickets allow unlimited travel throughout the day, so you can hop on and off at designated stations.

Is parking available onsite?

Yes, free car parking is available for all visitors at the Tanfield Railway stations.

Are mince pies suitable for people with allergies?

The mince pies contain common allergens; please check with Tanfield Railway staff for specific ingredient details.

Is the train ride suitable for wheelchair users?

Accessibility is limited due to the vintage rolling stock; please contact Tanfield Railway for specific accommodation options.

When is the best time to visit for the Mince Pie Specials?

This special runs after Christmas during the winter season when festive treats and the steam train atmosphere are at their peak.

Steam Through History and Scenery with Tanfield Railway’s Mince Pie Specials | Train | History Tour

Located in Gateshead, England, Tanfield Railway invites visitors to step back in time aboard the world’s oldest operating railway. The Mince Pie Specials experience offers a unique way to unwind after the holiday rush, combining a nostalgic steam train ride with festive treats and scenic walks. Running through the historic railway lines, the journey weaves through Causey Valley’s peaceful wooded landscapes, offering guests a rare chance to explore England’s industrial heritage alongside natural beauty. The Tanfield Railway is not just any steam train — it’s a living piece of history, featuring Victorian-era rolling stock that still hisses and chuffs along its original tracks. For the Mince Pie Specials, passengers enjoy unlimited all-day travel with the freedom to hop on and off at various points like East Tanfield Station (DH9 9UY) or Andrews House Station (NE16 5ET). Along the route, complimentary mince pies and hot drinks keep spirits high and warm in chilly winter weather, while children savor juice and biscuits. A highlight of the trip is the Marley Hill Engine Shed, which stands as Europe’s oldest working engine shed. Exploring this remarkable site allows a deeper dive into the heritage that makes Tanfield Railway so special. This blend of history and nature draws visitors keen on experiencing the authentic atmosphere of early steam railroading amid the calm of Causey Valley’s trails. The valley itself offers peaceful walks perfect for stretching your legs and savoring fresh air. The wooded paths provide a refreshing contrast to the festive buzz, making it a perfect winter outing for families, history buffs, and nature lovers alike. With free parking and a relaxed schedule, guests can create their own pace to explore all that this unique local attraction offers. The Mince Pie Specials shine because they’re more than a ride; they’re an invitation to connect with a storied past and the gentle rhythms of an English landscape seldom seen in winter’s quiet. Whether you’re revisiting a veteran steam enthusiast’s dream or seeking a charming seasonal escape in Gateshead, this trip combines warmth, heritage, and scenery in a way few others can. Bundle up, bring sturdy footwear for the scenic valley walks, and prepare for a winter afternoon filled with steam, sweet treats, and the subtle, historic charm that’s uniquely Tanfield Railway.

Difficulty

easy.

Duration

3–6 hours (flexible all-day).

Fitness level

Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; must be able to walk short distances on uneven ground.

Wildlife

Red squirrels
Various woodland birds

History

Tanfield Railway is the world’s oldest working railway, dating back to 1725, showcasing early industrial transport.

Conservation

The railway operates with a commitment to heritage preservation and promoting sustainable tourism in the region.

Tanfield Railway is a heritage railway based in Tanfield Lea, England, operating steam-hauled and heritage train experiences through the Causey Valley. The railway offers a range of public events and specialist rides including Afternoon Tea Trains, Heritage Steam Train Rides, Freight Train Guard Experience, Steam Engine Footplate Ride, Mince Pie Specials and seasonal events such as the Gan' Canny Gala. Guests travel in restored Victorian carriages and can enjoy scenic journeys, walks in the Causey Valley and visits to onsite facilities. Tanfield Railway provides hands-on opportunities that recreate historic railway roles. Booked experiences include a Footplate Pass that allows participants to join the steam crew for a full round trip, and a Freight Train Guard Experience where participants perform guard duties in a Harton A16 brake van. Many experiences include period dress, take-home goody bags and certificates where listed, and some bookings offer an online discount. The site features Marley Hill Engine Shed, described as Europe’s oldest working engine shed, and operates services across a wooded valley route. Tanfield Railway promotes safe, ticketed visits and encourages online bookings where available. Visitor information, schedules and ticket details are published by the railway for each listed event. For those seeking heritage rail experiences in County Durham, Tanfield Railway provides authentic steam rides, specialty dining on board and themed seasonal trips that highlight local railway history. Timetables, ticket prices and accessibility information are provided on the railway's listings for each experience, helping visitors plan trips and book online well before arrival and departure.

Base locationGateshead, England

Tours offered6+

Specialtyland-adventures

StewardshipLeave No Trace