Explore history on one of the best family days out at The Watercress Line

Let off steam at this living history railway! Experience the nostalgic sights, sounds and smells of steam as you travel through 10 miles of beautiful Hampshire countryside.

Located just seven miles from the ancient city of Winchester and 30 minutes from Southampton, you can join the line at the picturesque Georgian town of Alresford or at the bustling market town of Alton. Fares give you all day travel, so you can visit all four heritage stations with period charm as well as these historic towns.

What to expect on your Watercress Line day out

• Experience the thrill of travelling on a real steam train.
• Walk in Harry Potter's footsteps over the real King’s Cross bridge where Harry received his Hogwarts Express ticket in the film.
• Ride the miniature railway – included in your ticket price. Their miniature railway runs during every special event and weekend running days (Subject to volunteer availability)
• Young Engineers trail – Pick up FREE Young Engineer’s activity sheet and look out for the Restoration Route plaques around the railway!
• Children’s activity sheets – complete activity sheets with colouring in, puzzles, games and quizzes for different ages.
• See restoration in action – visit the Viewing Gallery in the engineer sheds and watch the locomotives being restored from above, and get up close to big steam locomotives.
• Children’s picnic – pick up a children’s picnic box from the West Country Buffet at Alresford station with a selection of delicious treats to enjoy at one of the picnic spots or even on the train!
• Visit the West Country Buffet for some delicious hot meals, snacks and drinks.

The History of The Watercress Line

The Watercress line has an inspiring history. In years gone by, The Watercress Line took people on holiday, carried people to war, transported evacuees and moved all the essential goods of the area.

Today at the heritage railway you can enjoy the perfect day out for all the family, with plenty of activities included in the ticket price: play in the brand-new playground and experience the thrill of a trip on a steam train through the spectacular Hampshire countryside!

Book your tickets for The Watercress line now and have them delivered to you instantly via email or SMS, don't miss out on one of the best family days out in Hampshire!