Elsecar Heritage Railway
The heritage railway at Elsecar runs between Rockingham Station at Elsecar through countryside alongside the Dearne and Dove Canal to Hemingfield. It is run by volunteers from the Elsecar Railway Preservation Group who drive the trains, man the passenger cars and maintain the railroad, stations and rolling stock. There are restored steam engines and diesel locomotives in use. Train rides are available on one or the other on Sundays and special days through the year and it is possible that, even on an advertised steam day, the steam engines may not run.
Elsecar Railway
In the future passengers will be able to alight from the train at two platforms along the track, at Hemingfield Halt and at Cortonwood. Picnic sites and amenities will be added to complete the Elsecar Steam Railway experience. This does not seem to be happening any time soon.
On days when there are no scheduled services on the trains you can often watch them shunting. The stench of burning coal used for the steam engine is truly awful: I had forgotten just how bad burning coal actually smells.
For railway enthusiasts the website below contains lots of information about the engines used and those undergoing restoration.
Besides the regular train trips the Heritage Railway hold events throughout the year including Thomas the Tank Engine weekends, other special weekends, Santa specials, galas and rallies. Also available are Driver Experience Courses and birthday parties on the train for children and adults. There is plenty of free parking in the Elsecar Heritage Centre car park but fair warning it can be choc-a-block when some events are on. Visit the website below for a full list.
Information
Passenger who suffer from disabilities or use wheelchairs are welcome and can be accommodated on most of the services. Please Tel. 01226 746746 on the day of your visit to ensure that there are enough volunteers available to help.
Gift Shop and Station Refreshment Bar.
Address:- Elsecar Heritage Centre, Wath Road, Elsecar, Barnsley, S74 8HJ. Tel. the Preservation Group on 44 (0)1226 746746. Website www.elsecarrailway.cjb.net.