Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway: Return Train Tickets

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway
Available until 28 October 2025

Get ready for a steam-powered adventure through the stunning Yorkshire Dales with the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway!

This return journey in beautifully restored historic rail vehicles lasts around one hour, offering a scenic and nostalgic ride through the countryside.

Journey details:

  • The trip takes 20 minutes each way, with a 20-minute stop at the halfway station
  • During the stop, feel free to hop off, explore the station, grab a bite at the café, or browse the gift shop for railway-themed goodies!

Please Note:

  • Tickets are valid for one return journey only and do not guarantee exclusive use of a four-seat table
  • Want to break up your journey and return later? Just check with the ticket office on the day to see if there’s space available
  • While the team aim to run the advertised train, operational changes may mean a different train is used at short notice

The beautiful Embsay & Bolton Steam Trains

The team run a variety of heritage trains, each with its own unique story. Here’s what you might ride on your visit:

  • 1950s Steam Train: Step into the golden era of British rail travel with our 1950s steam train. These post-war carriages, known as Mark Ones, were designed for comfort and scenic travel, featuring bay seating and large picture windows. Many of these historic coaches have been carefully restored and are now over 60 years old, offering a nostalgic and relaxing ride through the countryside
  • 1890s–1920s Vintage Steam Train: Experience travel as it was in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. These beautifully crafted carriages reflect the elegance and craftsmanship of the Victorian and Edwardian railway age. You might find yourself seated in a coach once used by railway directors, engineers, or even royalty such as Princess Alice. Each carriage is a piece of living history, full of character and stories from the past
  • 1903 Autocar: The 1903 Autocar is a remarkable example of early railway innovation. Built before the First World War, this self-propelled carriage was a forerunner to many modern rail vehicles. Restored by the 1903 Electric Autocar Trust with support from the National Lottery Heritage Fund, it now boasts a beautifully finished interior and has received widespread acclaim. It’s a unique and comfortable way to experience a pioneering piece of railway history

With friendly volunteers, vintage carriages, and a whole lot of steam-powered fun, it’s one of Yorkshire’s top attractions for a day out with a difference!

Location

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway

Bolton Abbey,
Skipton,
BD23 6QX
Show on Google Maps

How to find us

By car:

A65, from the M6 (The West): Follow the A65 towards Skipton, and follow the brown signs for ‘Embsay Steam Railway’ to get to Embsay Station (this will involve turning left onto the A59).

For Bolton Abbey Station, continue along the A59 towards Harrogate, and alongside part of the railway, until ‘Bolton Abbey Station’ is signposted.

A65, from Ilkley and Otley (The East): Follow the A65 until you reach the junction with the A59. Turn left and follow the brown tourist signs for ‘Embsay Steam Railway’ to get to Embsay Station.

For Bolton Abbey Station, turn right onto the A59 and follow this road (which runs alongside part of the railway) until the station is signposted as ‘Bolton Abbey Station’.

A59, from Liverpool, the M6 and Preston (The West): Follow the A59 towards Skipton, and then follow the signs for ‘Embsay Steam Railway’ to get to Embsay Station. If you want to get to Bolton Abbey Station, continue along the A59, towards Harrogate and alongside part of the railway, until it is signposted as ‘Bolton Abbey Station’.

A59, from York, the A1 and Harrogate (The East): Follow the A59 towards Skipton, following the signposts marked ‘Bolton Abbey Station’ for Bolton Abbey Station. For Embsay Station, continue past Bolton Abbey Station, and follow the road, alongside part of the railway, towards Skipton. Follow the signs for ‘Embsay Steam Railway’. 

By Rail & Bus:

The nearest national rail stations are at Skipton and Ilkley.

NYCC minibus 14 from Skipton (Mon – Fri)
Cravenlink bus 873 from Skipton, Ilkley and Bolton Abbey (Sundays / Bank Hols)

To BOLTON BRIDGE (Devonshire Arms Hotel – easy 20 minute walk to Bolton Abbey Station)

NYCC minibus 74A from Ilkley and Grassington (Mon/Wed/Fri)
Cravenlink bus 873 from Skipton and Ilkley (Sundays / Bank Hols)
DalesBus 874 from Leeds, Ilkley and Grassington (Summer Sundays / Bank Hols)

Facilities
  • Food & drink
  • Toilets
  • Gift Shop
  • Café
  • Wheelchair access
More Info
Is Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway wheelchair accessible?

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway is mostly accessible:

  • On the normal service trains there is usually a specially converted Wheelchair Saloon, which can be easily accessed via a ramp – the Station Staff or the Guard will be happy to assist
  • Due to their historic construction, the Stately Trains carriages do not have specific accommodation for wheelchairs. However, the Guards and Station staff will do their utmost to assist passengers with a disability to board
  • Car parking spaces are reserved close to both station buildings for ease of access. There are wheelchair-accessible toilets at both Embsay and Bolton Abbey stations
Are dogs allowed at Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway?

Yes, well-behaved dogs are welcome on the trains unless you are dining on board (they only allow assistance dogs in the dining carriages). They are welcome in the station buildings including the café areas. Dogs are not allowed on seats.

Are there baby-changing facilities at Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway?

Yes, in the following locations:
 
Embsay Station - Disabled Toilet
Bolton Abbey Station - Disabled Toilet (located in Booking Hall)

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