Travel back into the past with real vintage steam trains. The railway is Northern Ireland's only standard gauge (i.e. full size) heritage railway and is based in the county town of Down.
Nestling under the shadow of the picturesque Down Cathedral, the railway currently operates over approximately two miles of a restored section of the former Belfast and County Down Railway main line to Belfast out of Downpatrick to Inch Abbey, a ruined 12th Century Cistercian Abbey.
In addition to guided tours of the exhibitions and workshops, on running days visitors can experience the delights of traditional railway travel. Steam locomotives from the 1920s and 30s, or diesels from the 60s will take the passengers in 50 - 100 year old carriages from Downpatrick to the tranquil ruins of Inch Abbey.
Real enthusiasts can have an exhilarating time by booking a day's experience on the footplate, driving diesel, as well as firing and driving a steam locomotive.
Visitors may choose to take a tour of the station and worksheds, Signal Cabin, etc., to see the behind-the-scenes work going on outside of the train running days. There's also a buffet carriage parked at the platform for teas, coffees and buns
The Downpatrick & County Down Railway offers a number of exciting events for your enjoyment, or just to keep the kids (and big kids) busy!