Welcome to the Middleton Railway!

Step aboard and embark on a fascinating journey through time, as we take you on an enchanting ride through the heart of industrial history.

Established in 1758, the Middleton Railway holds the distinction of being the world’s oldest continuously working railway. It was originally built to transport coal from the Middleton Colliery to the thriving markets of Leeds.

We invite you to join us on a voyage through time, to witness the magic and splendour of a bygone era. Come and explore the rich tapestry of Leeds’ industrial past, where the heritage of steam and coal still resonate with every chuff and whistle.

Our Upcoming Running Days

Model Railway Exhibition

All Aboard for the Middleton Railway Model Railway Exhibition! Experience the Magic of Railways in Miniature! Highlights:

June 14, 2025 To June 15, 2025

Regular Diesel Running Day

Ride behind one of our historic diesel engines as we take you on a journey from Moor Road to Park

June 21, 2025

Regular Steam Running Day

Ride behind one of our historic Steam engines as we take you on a journey from Moor Road to Park

June 22, 2025

Regular Diesel Running Day

Ride behind one of our historic diesel engines as we take you on a journey from Moor Road to Park

June 28, 2025

Regular Steam Running Day

Ride behind one of our historic Steam engines as we take you on a journey from Moor Road to Park

June 29, 2025

Steampunk Market

Come ride with us, and browse the many stalls in the Leeds Steampunk Market. With a trade fair, assorted

July 5, 2025 To July 6, 2025

Railway 200 Events at Middleton Railway

Blenkinsop, Murray and Leeds Loco Building

Presented by Anthony Dawson The talk will start by exploring the socio-economic reasons why the locomotive supplanted the horse:

June 21, 2025

Happy Birthday ‘Sweet Pea’ – 90 years of Hunslet 1786

2025 marks several anniversaries including the 200th anniversary of the Stockton & Darlington Railway opening and 65th anniversary of the

July 19, 2025

The Three Contemporary Models of the Blenkinsop/Murray Locomotives

Presented by Dr Michael Bailey The three Blenkinsop/Murray models are believed to be the world’s oldest locomotive models. Recent

July 19, 2025

Middleton Railway – a Preservation Pioneer

Presented by Middleton Railway Vice Chairman, Ian Smith The talk will cover the first 10 years of the Middleton Railway’s

August 16, 2025

Autumn Gala

Middleton Railway presents it’s Annual Autumn Gala. To close our Railway 200 celebrations, we plan on having a celebration of

September 6, 2025

All these years living, working and passing through Miggy I never knew about Middleton Railway till my son and I heard the steam train whistle! “Find it daddy” my 3 year old son said.. And find it we did. What an amazing place with beautifully restored steam loco’s and all things to do with around the era of Steam Trains. The ride on the steam train with the train stations to the John Charles centre really is the cherry on top of the icing!

Had a brilliant day. So much packed in over just one mile of track. Huge thanks to all staff and volunteers.

My first visit today and it won’t be the last. Fantastic day and fantastic value for money. Well done to everyone!

Great Experience and fun. would like to thank all the staff from cleaners train staff kiosk staff cafe staff and all other staff. friendly helpful and make it what it is a a beautiful experience. a must for all and let's fully support the team here so thanks to all.

This is a great little day out. lovely museum and cafe and train trip up to a great park. The events put on are always well managed and add a little something new every now and then. Really recommend to anyone with children.