Thames Ditton Miniature Steam Railway

Really nice experience - have visited a few times now and this doesn't disappoint. Two separate railways with a wide mix of trains on them, some being driven by the people who built them - steam, diesel and electric - including bridges and a short tunnel, proper signal system that is quite impressive and clearly a labour of love (keep an eye out for the big control centre behind one of the train sheds!), and a big carriage shed - all looked after by a large and enthusiastic team, with a good sense of community. It's clearly a proper railway club with all sorts of skills involved (if you're really lucky you might get to peek in to the big machine shop where trains are made and repaired). Both the team and the visitors have a big range of ages and styles - lots of small children but lots of others too, it's a decent day out, special points for the sweets for small kids at the end of the visit. Very occasionally, trains even run down on the branch line to the turntable near the entrance. On practicalities - opening days vary - it's about once a month in summer - do make sure you check the website beforehand. There's a very large green area at the back (surrounded by railways) with picnic tables, as well as picnic tables nearer the entrance, and more often than not, a classic old French van selling good coffee and pastries, an ice cream van, and sometimes a full burger and hot dog option. A smart new toilet building is now also available on site, including a baby change. We usually go for the wristband infinite-journeys option, you will get a lot of train rides - the queue for the main line goes fast, the smaller trains on the raised track have a smaller capacity but they keep things moving there too. No on site parking, there is plenty of space in surrounding streets and around the Common but as it's set among residential streets, visitors are asked to park politely. Finally, it's worth noting these are proper coal based steam trains, and it can get a bit sooty if you're sat near the front - you'll want to wear your older tracksuit rather than your newest suit!

· via Google

We took our 2.5 year old to Thames Ditton Miniature Railway and had a thoroughly fun 3 or so hours. The staff/volunteers were extremely accommodating and the two different rides were terrific. You can essentially choose from the powerful ground-level trains or the elevated railway. Both great. Facilities such as food/drink stalls and toilets are all available on-site. I'd go again!

· via Google

This place is an absolute miniature marvel! 🤩 I've never seen such tiny perfection. It's truly an exceptional experience, a real "small world" after all! 🌍✨ No waiting around either, which is always a bonus! 👍

· via Google

Excellent place for a family day out, especially on a sunny day. We took a 3 year old grand child, who enjoyed each ride lots. Nice picnic area, but it looks like only basic refreshments. Good coffee and an ice cream van visited today. You don't have to be a train fan to enjoy things,

· via Google