Ribble Steam Railway & Museum
Step back in time on a heritage steam train through Preston’s historic docklands, surrounded by vintage locomotives and riverside views.
Nestled in Preston’s historic docklands, Ribble Steam Railway & Museum is a volunteer-run heritage attraction celebrating Lancashire’s industrial railway legacy. Explore a fascinating collection of steam and diesel locomotives, wander through interactive museum displays, and climb aboard a vintage steam train for a scenic 3-mile round trip along the River Ribble. With a working workshop, family playground, and riverside views, it’s a nostalgic journey into the age of steam that appeals to train enthusiasts and families alike.
A brief summary to Ribble Steam Railway & Museum
- Chain Caul Rd, Preston, Ashton-on-Ribble, Preston, PR2 2PD, GB
- +441772728800
- Visit website
- Duration: 1.5 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Monday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
- Saturday 10 am-4:30 pm
- Sunday 10:30 am-4:30 pm
Local tips
- Check the official website before visiting, as opening days and steam train services are seasonal and often limited to weekends and special events.
- Allow at least 1.5–2 hours to fully enjoy the museum, workshop, playground and at least one train ride.
- Visit on a steam day if possible – the sight and sound of a working steam locomotive add a special magic to the experience.
- Bring a camera: the combination of vintage trains, the swing bridge, river views and industrial scenery makes for excellent photos.
- Wear comfortable shoes and be prepared for an outdoor visit; much of the site is uncovered, though there are sheltered areas and a café.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Drinking Water
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Sheltered Areas
- Picnic Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
- Visitor Center
Getting There
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By car
From the M6, leave at Junction 29 (northbound) or Junction 31 (southbound) and follow signs for Riversway Docklands, then brown signs for the Steam Railway. The site has ample free parking at Chain Caul Road, PR2 2PD, though older sat-navs may only reach the start of the road; continue to the end.
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By train and local transport
Take a train to Preston Station, then a local bus (such as the No.100) to the city centre, alighting near McDonald’s for a 10-minute walk, or a taxi for about 10 minutes to Chain Caul Road.
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By bus
Local Preston buses (including routes 75, 74 and 20) serve the Riversway area; from there, it’s a short walk to the railway entrance on Chain Caul Road.
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On foot from Preston
From Preston city centre, it’s about a 45-minute walk along riverside paths and roads to Chain Caul Road; the route is mostly flat but can be exposed in bad weather.
Ribble Steam Railway & Museum location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Rain / Wet Weather
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Mild Temperatures
Discover more about Ribble Steam Railway & Museum
A Living Railway in the Docklands
Tucked away in Preston’s former industrial docklands, Ribble Steam Railway & Museum brings the region’s rich railway heritage to life. Opened to the public in 2005, the railway runs along a section of the old Preston Dock line, once a bustling hub of freight and industry. Today, it’s a vibrant heritage site where the clatter of wheels, the hiss of steam, and the glow of polished brass evoke the golden age of rail. The site centres on Chain Caul Road, where a collection of meticulously maintained locomotives and rolling stock are displayed in open sheds and on sidings, many of them industrial tank engines that once powered factories and docks across the North.Steam, Diesel and the Workshop Story
The museum’s heart lies in its diverse collection of steam and diesel engines, including some of the oldest standard-gauge operating locomotives in Britain. Visitors can walk among the engines, peer into cabs, and even climb aboard certain wagons and carriages. A highlight is the working workshop, where skilled volunteers rebuild, repair, and maintain the fleet, keeping traditional engineering skills alive. Knowledgeable volunteers are always on hand to explain how these machines worked, the industries they served, and the stories behind individual locomotives. The museum also explores the wider history of Preston Docks, the local rail network, and the people whose lives were shaped by the railways.A Scenic Ride Along the River
One of the most memorable experiences here is the heritage steam train ride. Passengers board vintage coaches and travel on original rolling stock along a 3-mile round trip that follows the River Ribble’s grassy banks. The journey crosses the impressive Preston Marina swing bridge, offering views of the marina, the river estuary, and glimpses of Preston’s skyline. The ride lasts about 30 minutes and runs multiple times a day on operating dates, giving visitors a genuine taste of early 20th-century rail travel. Diesel services also operate on some days, adding variety to the experience.Family Fun and Practical Details
Designed to appeal to all ages, the site includes Mr Ribble’s family playground, an outdoor area where children can run and play while adults enjoy refreshments and watch the trains. On-site facilities include a café serving drinks, snacks and light meals, restrooms, and picnic areas. The museum is largely outdoors, with covered walkways and sheltered viewing areas, making it accessible in most weather. Ample free parking is available, and the site is well signposted from the M6 and Preston city centre. Opening is seasonal, with regular services typically on weekends and special events from spring to autumn, so checking the current timetable in advance is recommended.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Central Pier
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The Gruffalo & Friends Clubhouse
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Blackpool Promenade
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The Blackpool Tower
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The Blackpool Tower Circus
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Blackpool Town Hall
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Unmissable attractions to see
Haslam Park
1.9 km
Victorian parkland where woodland serenity meets family fun along Preston's waterways.
Avenham and Miller Park
3.4 km
Discover Preston’s Victorian riverside gem with tranquil gardens, scenic walks, and vibrant community charm along the River Ribble.
St George's Shopping Centre
3.4 km
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Wallace and Gromit Statue
3.5 km
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Owl & Bird of Prey Sanctuary
4.3 km
Experience majestic birds of prey up close in a tranquil woodland sanctuary near Preston, with daily flying displays and conservation education.
Lancashire Infantry Museum
4.9 km
Explore five centuries of Lancashire military heritage in one of England's largest regimental collections.
Longton Brickcroft Nature Reserve
5.0 km
A tranquil wetland oasis in Preston, blending rich industrial heritage with vibrant wildlife and accessible nature trails.
Lostock Hall Henge
5.4 km
Explore the tranquil ancient earthworks of Lostock Hall Henge, a prehistoric ceremonial site nestled in Preston's peaceful landscape.
Made in Leyland - Centurion Tank
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The British Commercial Vehicle Museum
8.2 km
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Brockholes
8.4 km
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Viking Woodland
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West Lancashire Light Railway
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Cuerden Valley Park
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Worden Park
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Essential places to dine
Aven Restaurant
3.5 km
Experience Preston’s finest with Aven Restaurant’s award-winning British cuisine, seasonal tasting menus, and warm, elegant ambiance.
Tipsy Chef (Bar & Restaurant)
3.7 km
A vibrant American-inspired bar and restaurant in Preston, famed for inventive dishes and lively cocktails in a buzzing social setting.
The Broughton Inn
6.0 km
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Lang's Restaurant
6.4 km
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The Italian Orchard
6.7 km
Spacious and stylish Italian dining in Broughton, offering a vast menu and lively atmosphere for families and groups.
The Pickled Goose
8.0 km
A lively British pub and restaurant in Barton, Preston, blending countryside charm with modern dining and a vibrant social bar.
Walled Garden Restaurant
8.0 km
A stylish British bistro in Preston offering fresh, locally sourced dishes and renowned afternoon tea in a charming garden conservatory setting.
Charnock Farm Restaurant
9.8 km
Rustic country dining, comfortable motel stays, and charming event spaces nestled in the tranquil Lancashire countryside.
Rigby's Farmhouse
10.5 km
Cozy farmhouse dining in Preston serving hearty British classics and an exceptional gin selection for family and friends.
Vardons Restaurant at Shaw Hill
11.2 km
Elegant British dining with scenic golf course views at Shaw Hill’s Regency-style Vardons Restaurant.
The Farmers Arms Great Eccleston
13.1 km
A charming Lancashire gastropub offering fresh seafood, hearty British classics, and a welcoming atmosphere in the heart of Great Eccleston.
Encore Restaurant
14.2 km
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Angels Restaurant
14.8 km
Chic modern British dining in Ribchester’s Ribble Valley, blending seasonal local produce with elegant style and warm hospitality.
Pipers
15.9 km
Experience traditional English cuisine with modern flair in the heart of Garstang’s historic High Street at Pipers Restaurant.
The Bonny Inn
17.8 km
Contemporary British pub with fresh local cuisine, vegan options, and stunning Ribble Valley views in a welcoming, modern setting.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
KENJI Preston
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Retrogue Vintage Clothing
3.5 km
Discover unique vintage and designer secondhand fashion treasures in the heart of Preston at Retrogue Vintage Clothing.
Mood Gifts & Home
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Discover unique gifts and stylish home accessories in a warm, community-focused boutique in Longton, Preston.
The Mill Shop
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A welcoming gift shop in St Catherine’s Park, Lostock Hall, blending community spirit with unique local crafts and charitable support.
The Secret Closet
11.0 km
Curated Italian, Danish & Portuguese fashion with a commitment to responsible, sustainable retail.
Rufford's Country Lifestyle
12.9 km
Discover premium British country wear and footwear at Rufford's, your stylish gateway to authentic country living near Preston.
North West Vintage Clothing Company Ltd
13.3 km
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Freckle Boutique
14.0 km
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Crissys Gifts For All Occasions
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Cedar Farm
15.4 km
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The Hive
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Dream
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La Shack Costume Fashion Jewellery and Gifts
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Blackpool Retail Park
18.4 km
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Gold Boutique
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
No. 16 On The Hill
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Ships and Giggles
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Plau Gin & Beer House
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The Winter Lodge
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Hartleys Wine Bar
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Plug & Taps
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FORUM BAR & KITCHEN
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Black Horse
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Revolution Preston
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Guild Ale House
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Baluga Bar & Club
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Winedown
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Hogarths
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Blitz Venue & Nightclub
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The Stags Head
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Switch Nightclub
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Popworld - Preston
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Park Hall Nightclub
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Club underground
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Funny Girls
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The Tache Rock Club
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Hush Nightclub
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Trilogy Nightclub
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Banff
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Popworld - Blackpool
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Sanuk Nightclub
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Rendezvous Nightclub & Resteraunt
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Pure Nightclub
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Ibiza Nightclub
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Scenic
- Lively
- Entertaining
- Relaxing
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Retro Vibes
- Vintage Styles
- Industrial Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Industrial
- Heritage Neighborhoods
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Waterfront
- Skyline
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
- Architectural Shots
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Sustainable
- Eco-Friendly
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Locally Managed
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Solo Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Female Friendly
- Vegetarian Friendly
- Vegan Friendly