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Step Back in Time with The Plains Railway
Tinwald
Vintage steam train and railcar rides with historical exhibits
About
Embark on a captivating journey back in time at The Plains Railway, where vintage steam trains and railcars offer thrilling rides through history. Explore the charming Museum Village, showcasing stationary engines, vintage machinery, and a collection of partner attractions including the Ashburton Fire Museum and woodworking exhibits. It's an immersive experience for all ages, bringing the past to life with every chug and whistle.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, history enthusiasts, train lovers
Vibe
Nostalgic, educational, charming
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
Affordable
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Medium
Tags
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.
Website & Socials
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Pre-school: FREE, Child: $10.00, Adult: $15.00, Family: $40.00 (2 adults + 2 children). EFTPOS available on site. Credit cards not accepted.
Duration
All day
Ages
All ages welcome
Schedule
Public running days operate from September to June, with train rides departing every half hour from 11:00 am, with the final departure at 3:30 pm. Explore the Museum Village buildings featuring stationary engines and vintage machinery. Partner attractions like the Ashburton Fire Museum, Ashburton Steam & Model Engineers, Ashburton Woodworkers, and Lynn Museum are typically open, subject to staff availability.
Organizer
The Plains Railway & Historical Museum
Practical Information
Parking
Ample parking is conveniently located at the adjacent Tinwald Domain.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
Food vendors are usually present on running days, offering culinary delights.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive early on running days to secure your preferred train ride time, as departures are every half hour and the last train leaves at 3:30 pm.
- Check the weather forecast and dress in layers, as you'll be spending time outdoors exploring the railway and village.
- Bring cash for purchases, as only EFTPOS is accepted on-site, and credit cards are not.
- Allow ample time to explore all the partner attractions on-site, as each offers a unique glimpse into history and craftsmanship.
- Consider visiting on a day when food vendors are present to enjoy some local culinary delights alongside your historical adventure.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I visit on a Monday?
The grounds are accessible for walking on Mondays, offering a glimpse of the beautiful surroundings, but the locomotives and full museum experience are typically only available on scheduled running days.
What kind of historical items can I see?
Visitors can see a variety of historical items including vintage fire engines, household appliances, farming equipment, steam engines, railcars, carriages, and old carpenters and printers tools.
Is there anything for children to do?
Yes, the station waiting room features a range of children's activities, and the train rides themselves are a highlight for younger visitors.
What are the operating hours on running days?
On public running days, trains depart every half hour from 11:00 am until 3:30 pm, with the museum village buildings also open.
How do I get there?
The Plains Railway is located at 20 Maronan Road, Tinwald, beside the Tinwald Domain, where plenty of parking is available. You can also use 'The Plains Vintage Railway' in your phone's map app for directions.