And that is exactly what you can do at the IW Steam Railway where they run some of the last surviving steam trains on over four and a half miles of track between Havenstreet, Wootton and Ashey.
The Island once had over 55 miles of steam-hauled railway lines, connecting all of the major towns and villages, but they were closed from 1952 onwards until the end of 1966. In 1967 the Ryde to Shanklin section reopened as an electric line using former London Underground stock.
Luckily a group of railway enthusiasts formed the IW Steam Railway in 1971 and it now has a large collection of engines and carriages, at least two different engines in operation every month, visiting engines and a beautifully- kept track through pretty countryside.
The award winning Isle of Wight Steam Railway will engage, inspire and excite you ... The sight of powerful majestic steam engines, the charm of quiet rural stations, and the friendliness of traditionally uniformed staff, will leave you with some enduring memories of a special day out.
Added to this there are special weekends throughout the summer where you can relive the 1940s, join the railway folk, induldge in some cider and cheese tasting, enjoy a special ‘steam day’, see the different motor shows or sip Real Ales.
Make sure to see Haven Falconry who have birds of prey - watch them fly and pose with them for photos. And visit the Railway Shop, the Woodland Walk and the children’s play area.
Check-out their website which has information about the engines, the rota of engines in operation each month and lots about the events throughout the year. You can easily spend a whole day at this great attraction, and there’s even a restaurant if you don’t bring a picnic.
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