Foxfield Steam Railway: A Living Heritage of Staffordshire’s Industrial Past
Experience authentic steam train journeys and rich industrial heritage at Foxfield Steam Railway in Staffordshire’s scenic countryside.
Nestled in the countryside near Blythe Bridge, Stoke-on-Trent, Foxfield Steam Railway is a preserved heritage railway offering nostalgic steam train rides along a 3.6 km line. Founded in 1893 to serve the local colliery, it now operates on weekends and special occasions, featuring a museum, café, bar, gift shop, and miniature railway, all maintained by passionate volunteers dedicated to preserving Britain’s railway legacy.
A brief summary to Foxfield Steam Railway
- Foxfield Railway Station, Caverswall Rd, Stoke-on-Trent, Blythe Bridge, ST11 9BG, GB
- +441782396210
- Visit website
- Duration: 1 to 3 hours
- Mid ranged
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Outdoor
- Mobile reception: 4 out of 5
- Sunday 9 am-5 pm
Local tips
- Book tickets in advance for special events like the North Pole Express, as they often sell out quickly.
- Take time to explore the museum and chat with volunteers to learn fascinating stories about the locomotives.
- Visit on a Sunday or Bank Holiday to enjoy the full steam train service and family-friendly activities.
- Use the free, level parking adjacent to the station, which includes disabled bays for easy access.
- Try refreshments at the station café, which offers gluten-free and vegan options alongside traditional fare.
For the on-the-go comforts that matter to you
- Restrooms
- Drink Options
- Food Options
- Seating Areas
- Trash Bins
- Information Boards
Getting There
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Car
Driving to Foxfield Steam Railway from Stoke-on-Trent takes approximately 20-30 minutes via the A50. Free parking is available on-site with level access and disabled bays. Note that the station is located off Caverswall Road in Blythe Bridge.
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Train and Walk
Take a train to Blythe Bridge station on the Crewe-Derby line, then enjoy a 15-minute walk along Caverswall Road to Foxfield Railway. The walk is on paved roads but may not be suitable for all mobility levels.
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Bus
Local bus services stop in Blythe Bridge, about a 15-minute walk from the railway station. Bus routes vary in frequency, so check local timetables. Walking routes are on quiet roads with some slight inclines.
Foxfield Steam Railway location weather suitability
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Any Weather
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Clear Skies
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Mild Temperatures
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Rain / Wet Weather
Discover more about Foxfield Steam Railway
Origins Rooted in Staffordshire’s Coal Mining Era
The Foxfield Railway was originally constructed in 1893 to connect the Foxfield Colliery with the North Staffordshire Railway near Blythe Bridge. This standard gauge line was vital for transporting coal from the Dilhorne area, playing a key role in the region’s industrial development. Built largely by local labour under the supervision of North Staffordshire Railway staff, the line utilized second-hand materials, reflecting the resourcefulness of the era.Preservation and Revival by Dedicated Volunteers
After the colliery’s closure in 1965, the railway faced potential abandonment. However, a group of local enthusiasts formed the Foxfield Light Railway Society to preserve this historic line. They initially transported passengers in converted trucks up steep gradients, gradually acquiring proper coaches and building a station at Caverswall Road, Blythe Bridge. Today, the railway runs a 2.25-mile (3.6 km) route offering authentic steam train experiences that celebrate the golden age of rail travel.Visitor Experience and Attractions on Site
Visitors can enjoy more than just the train rides. The station complex includes a well-stocked museum showcasing railway artifacts and locomotives, a café and bar serving traditional refreshments including gluten-free and vegan options, and a gift shop with affordable souvenirs. The adjacent Foxfield Miniature Railway and occasional animal sanctuary enclosures add family-friendly charm. Special themed events, such as the popular North Pole Express during Christmas, enrich the calendar.Scenic Setting and Community Spirit
Set amid Staffordshire’s tranquil countryside, the railway offers picturesque views along its route, with volunteers eager to share stories and technical knowledge about the locomotives and railway heritage. The welcoming atmosphere and well-maintained facilities, including accessible parking and wheelchair-friendly coaches, make it an inclusive destination for all ages and abilities.Events and Seasonal Highlights
Foxfield Steam Railway hosts a variety of events throughout the year, from vintage vehicle rallies to family days and themed train journeys. Operating mainly from April to October on weekends and some weekdays during summer holidays, it also runs festive specials in December. These events provide immersive experiences that connect visitors with Britain’s rich railway and industrial history.Legacy and Cultural Importance
More than a tourist attraction, Foxfield Steam Railway is a testament to community dedication in preserving industrial heritage. It serves as a living museum where history is not only displayed but actively experienced through steam locomotion. The railway’s ongoing restoration projects and educational outreach highlight the importance of conserving such cultural landmarks for future generations.Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
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Sandbach Crosses
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Arbor Low Stone Circle and Gib Hill Barrow
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Carsington Water
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Burma Star Island
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Tegg's Nose Country Park
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Solomon’s Temple
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Hack Green Secret Nuclear Bunker
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Poole's Cavern
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St Mary’s Church, Nantwich
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Saint Mary the Virgin and Saint Chad
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Rowtor Rocks
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Discover breathtaking views and adventurous trails at Rowtor Rocks, a stunning natural wonder in the Peak District National Park.
White Nancy
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Lilleshall Abbey
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Unmissable attractions to see
Foxfield Miniature Railway
0.1 km
Experience the charm of steam-powered miniature trains through scenic Staffordshire countryside at Foxfield Miniature Railway.
The Catering Butcher - Factory Shop
4.0 km
Premium quality meats and expert service combine at The Catering Butcher - Factory Shop in Longton, Stoke-on-Trent’s trusted meat destination.
Aynsley China Ltd
4.5 km
Historic British bone china manufacturer in Stoke-on-Trent, blending craftsmanship and heritage since 1775.
Gladstone Pottery Museum
4.6 km
Step into a living Victorian pottery factory and discover the rich heritage of Staffordshire ceramics at Gladstone Pottery Museum.
Longton Park
4.9 km
Historic Victorian park in Stoke-on-Trent with lakes, playgrounds, sports courts, and a welcoming community atmosphere for all ages.
Hem Heath Woods
7.3 km
Discover a 100-acre urban woodland sanctuary rich with ancient trees, spring bluebells, and vibrant wildlife on the edge of Stoke-on-Trent.
V&A Wedgwood Collection
7.3 km
Discover centuries of Wedgwood craftsmanship and design in this world-class collection nestled in Staffordshire’s scenic countryside.
World of Wedgwood
7.4 km
Discover centuries of ceramic artistry, hands-on creativity, and elegant dining at the World of Wedgwood in Staffordshire’s scenic countryside.
National Trust - Downs Banks
7.9 km
Discover peaceful woodland and heathland trails with stunning Staffordshire views at Downs Banks, a cherished National Trust nature reserve.
Churnet Valley Railway (Kingsley and Froghall Station)
8.4 km
Step aboard vintage trains through the scenic Staffordshire Moorlands for a charming heritage railway adventure at Kingsley and Froghall Station.
Hanley Park
8.6 km
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Hulton Abbey
8.8 km
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Trentham Estate
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Trentham Mausoleum
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Trentham Monkey Forest
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Essential places to dine
La Villa Verde
3.3 km
Experience authentic Italian flavors and warm hospitality at La Villa Verde, Stoke-on-Trent’s beloved Italian restaurant.
The Oak House Restaurant and Balcony Bar (located at Moddershall Oaks)
4.5 km
Lakeside dining with fresh local flavors and scenic views at Moddershall Oaks’ elegant Oak House Restaurant and Balcony Bar.
The Ship Inn
5.2 km
A cozy British pub in Tean offering hearty traditional dishes, friendly service, and excellent value in a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The Spotgate Inn
5.3 km
Dine in authentic vintage Pullman carriages at The Spotgate Inn, where historic charm meets hearty British pub fare in Stone.
Lunar
7.4 km
Modern British dining inspired by the Lunar Society, set within the iconic World of Wedgwood estate in Staffordshire.
The Potters Club
8.6 km
Historic elegance meets refined British cuisine in Stoke-on-Trent’s distinguished Potters Club.
the QUARTER at Potbank
8.7 km
A dynamic restaurant and event venue blending Stoke-on-Trent’s heritage with vibrant dining and unique indoor-outdoor spaces.
The Stafford Arms
9.3 km
Historic 16th-century gastropub in Bagnall blending rustic charm with modern dining excellence and warm hospitality.
Little Seeds Restaurant
9.7 km
Intimate seasonal dining in Stone celebrating local British produce, sustainability, and a flourishing kitchen garden.
Orange Tree Bar and Grill
10.1 km
Stylish bar and grill in Stoke-on-Trent offering creative grill dishes, excellent steaks, and a lively, welcoming atmosphere for all occasions.
The Wayfarer
10.3 km
A contemporary gastropub in Stone blending British classics with international flair in a cozy, stylish setting.
85 Secret Garden
10.8 km
Discover the enchanting blend of fine dining, creative cocktails, and soulful ambiance at 85 Secret Garden in Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Ostler Restaurant
11.2 km
A charming British dining experience blending historic ambiance with quality cuisine in the heart of Newcastle-under-Lyme.
Marloes Restaurant
11.3 km
An intimate British bistro in Newcastle-under-Lyme, where seasonal European cuisine and a legendary beef Wellington make every meal feel like a celebration.
The Mill at Worston
16.3 km
A charming Staffordshire country pub with seasonal British fare, scenic gardens, and warm, friendly hospitality near Great Bridgeford.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Hippie at Heart
8.7 km
Discover vibrant fair trade fashion and unique bohemian styles at Hippie at Heart, Stoke-on-Trent’s ethical clothing boutique.
Gift Company
9.0 km
Discover unique gifts and homeware at Gift Company, a welcoming shop nestled in the scenic Trentham Estate, Stoke-on-Trent.
Goomoo
9.0 km
Discover unique, fair-trade gifts and curiosities at Goomoo, nestled in the scenic Trentham Shopping Village in Stoke-on-Trent.
Trentham Shopping Village
9.0 km
Explore over 77 charming timber lodges filled with unique shops, cafés, and restaurants in a friendly village atmosphere near Trentham Gardens.
The Potteries Centre
9.4 km
Staffordshire’s largest shopping and leisure destination with over 50 stores, dining, cinema, and community events all under one roof.
Rogue Boutique
9.8 km
Discover unique, quality women's fashion and accessories with personalised service in the heart of Stone at Rogue Boutique.
Jolu Accessories Boutique
9.8 km
Charming family-run boutique in Stone offering unique gifts, fashion accessories, and beautifully wrapped presents on the historic High Street.
Festival Heights Retail Park
10.5 km
A modern, accessible retail park in Stoke-on-Trent offering diverse shopping options and convenient amenities for a seamless shopping experience.
Sign of the Times Antiques ltd
11.0 km
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Roebuck Shopping Centre
11.6 km
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Nike Clearance Store
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Browse-a-while Ltd. House & Estate Clearance, Auction House, Antiques Buyer, Stafford & UK
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Guildhall Shopping Centre
19.1 km
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Peccadillos
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Primark
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
The Plume of Feathers- With Neil Morrissey
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Sutherland Arms
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Basement
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The Borehole
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No.41
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A stylish pub in Milton, Stoke-on-Trent, known for its eclectic decor, craft ales, cocktails, and extensive gin selection.
Swan Inn
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Fitzherbert Arms
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Dog & Doublet Inn
12.8 km
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Saracens Head
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Staffordshire Bull
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The Kings Arms
17.9 km
A friendly, traditional Stafford pub offering quality ales, hearty food, and cozy rooms in a welcoming local setting.
The Swan With Two Necks
18.6 km
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The Butler's Bell By Davenports
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Hogarths
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Experience Stafford’s vibrant Edwardian-themed Hogarths Gin Bar with its vast gin selection, live entertainment, and cozy social spaces.
The Empourium
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Reflex - Hanley
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TTL Nightclub
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Pink Nightclub - Stoke on Trent
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Gossip!
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Reflex - Newcastle Under Lyme
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Base 95
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3D Leek - Bar & Nightclub Experiences
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Experience Leek’s vibrant nightlife at 3D Leek, where lively music, great drinks, and dynamic events create unforgettable evenings.
The Club
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3D Congleton
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Mainstreet Nightclub
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The Studio
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Level 2
32.7 km
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Great Rocks Social Club
36.9 km
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The Loft
38.6 km
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Mosh
39.5 km
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For the vibe & atmosphere seeker
- Relaxing
- Tranquil
- Scenic
- Fun-filled
- Unique
For the design and aesthetic lover
- Vintage Styles
- Rustic Designs
For the architecture buff
- Historic
- Landmarks
- Parks & Gardens
For the view chaser and sunset hunter
- Iconic Views
- Panoramas
- Sunset Spots
For the social media creator & influencer
- Instagrammable
- Photo Spots
- Selfie Spots
- Aesthetic Corners
For the eco-conscious traveler
- Locally Managed
- Public-Transport Accessible
- Leave-No-Trace Critical
For the kind of experience you’re after
- Cultural Heritage
- Photowalk
- Family Friendly
- Day Trip
- Weekend Getaway
For how adventurous you want the journey to be
- Easy Access
Location Audience
- Family Friendly
- Senior Friendly
- Child Friendly
- Teen Friendly
- Wheelchair Access
- Pet Friendly
- Couple Friendly
- Solo Friendly
