The Railway
Steam trains through rolling countryside, with views out to wild moorland and the rugged coastline.
Originally opened in 1898, and closed in 1935; what you can see today at Woody Bay is just the beginning of an exciting project to rebuild one of the world’s most famous and picturesque narrow-gauge railways; the legendary Lynton & Barnstaple Railway.
A one mile return trip from Woody Bay Station to Killington Lane and back. Two miles in total taking approximately 20 mins.
You board your train - comprised of restored heritage carriages - at Woody Bay Station, and travel to Killington Lane and back on a two-mile round trip behind a narrow-gauge steam locomotive. The complete trip lasts about 25 minutes. Tickets are valid all day so you can ride as many times as you like. Return anytime within 28 days and travel all day at half-price.
This initial section allows our visitors to experience a taste of what will one day become one of the ultimate narrow-gauge treasures of the world as they once again travel by train along the original route above the delightful Heddon Valley near Parracombe in Exmoor’s National Park.
Advance booking is not required unless a party of 8 or more
Currently trains operate between Woody Bay Station and Killington Lane Halt.
We do not operate trains to either Lynton or Barnstaple. The rail service to these two destinations is currently suspended pending further reconstruction of the railway.
Make sure you check out our news for the latest on what is happening, and before you go do not miss out on our well stocked online shop!
The Lynton & Barnstaple Railway is a social enterprise offering narrow-gauge train rides at Woody Bay in Exmoor National Park, with one aim: to restore fully the legendary Lynton & Barnstaple Railway. But the L&B is much more than a visitor attraction; we are an educational charity having a living classroom promoting an understanding of the transport systems of the past and their affect on the rural community living on the remotest and wildest parts of Exmoor - all some 20 miles from the next town.
What you see today was built from nothing. Having closed in 1935 the L&B’s closure predated all of todays preserved railways. Consequently, this is the longest-closed section of railway line anywhere in the world to have ever been reopened solely through volunteer effort.
The railway is owned by the Members of the L&BR Trust and run almost entirely by volunteers. The L&B Trust membership is made up of people who wish to and do support us and our work. Not all our supporters are members as we also rely on the public for support and they do so with over 40,000 visitors a year using our facilities. If unable to visit, some make a donation - there is still much to do.
A recreated railway will make a real difference – but we do need the support of people like you to make it happen. Become an L&B Supporter today!
All EventsAdore this place
I absolutely fall in love with this place every time we go.
Steam train experience
The station was like going back in time very quaint and idyllic.
Step back in time
Woody Bay Station is in pristine condition & takes you straight back in time.
The Station is now closed and will be open again for Christmas & New Year
Click here for Santa Speicals details! Dates: 14th -24th of December (we are closed 16th &17th)
Click here for New Year Service details! Dates: 28th of December to 1st of January (we are closed from the 25th,26th and 27th of December)
Click here for our webshop, which includes our 2025 Eric Leslie Calender, Christmas Cards and gifts!