About The Watercress Line
Enjoy an immersive and educational day out for the entire family at The Watercress Line. Set out on an adventure through the stunning county of Hampshire with incredible views and delicious food. Whether you’re looking for a day of relaxation or discovery, The Watercress Line is the perfect choice.
Trains at the Watercress Line
With a variety of steam and diesel locomotives as well as wagons, coaches and cranes, guests are spoilt for choice when visiting The Watercress Line. Step onboard to explore these impressive vehicles and see history come alive as you travel through the glorious countryside. There are a variety of different locomotives in service and young visitors in particular will love discovering the fully functioning Thomas the Tank Engine steam train.
Watercress Line Stations
The Watercress Line visits four picturesque heritage stations including Ropley, Arelsford, Medstead and Four Marks, and Alton. Each station is bursting with charm and history making every stop a unique experience. Tickets allow guests to travel all day long, ensuring there is plenty of time to fully explore each amazing location. Visitors can enjoy Alresford, a beautiful Georgian town where the name for the Watercress Line originated thanks to the plentiful supplies of watercress that were shipped throughout the country.
For train lovers, Ropley is a great destination. Guests can learn about the fascinating process of restoring carriages and engines while discovering how the railway is preserved. Young travellers will also enjoy seeing the stunning Kings Cross footbridge that featured in Harry Potter.
For a slower, more laid-back experience, visit Medstead and Four Marks, the most tranquil of the four stations. Here visitors can discover the Delivering the Goods exhibition covering the history of goods handling on The Watercress Line.
Food and drink
Travelling on The Watercress Line offers guests a unique day of discovery and adventure, and before long, you are sure to need some delicious refreshments. Hungry? Why not make a pit stop at the West Country Buffet at Alresford Station? There you will find tasty homemade hot and cold meals with refreshing drinks and sweet treats.
There are a variety of locations to enjoy your refreshments including indoor and outdoor spaces. On warm days, you can make the most of the beautiful weather at one of the picturesque outdoor picnic areas at Ropley or Alresford stations.
The railway is open weekends from mid February – October, with additional midweek running May – September and open every day in August.
Adult £20.00 (advanced booking), £24 (on the day)
Child (age 5-16 years) £10.00 (advanced booking), £12 (on the day)
Family (2 Adults and 2 Children) £50.00 (advanced booking), £60 (on the day)
Child (under 5 years) FREE
