Paddington Bear steam train experience set to return to Tanfield Railway

A family steam train experience inspired by Paddington Bear is due to make a return to County Durham later this year, with organisers confirming dates and ticket details for the popular attraction.

Tanfield Railway has announced it will once again host Paddington-themed steam train journeys in March, giving families the chance to travel behind a steam locomotive and meet the famous bear. Tickets for the event are now available.

The heritage railway will operate the special services on 7 and 8 March, adding to its programme of themed experiences, which also includes fish and chip evenings and afternoon tea trips.

Journeys will begin at Andrew’s House Station, where passengers will board a steam-hauled train formed of traditional Victorian wooden carriages. The route follows a former coal mining line and runs close to the historic Causey Arch, offering views across the surrounding countryside during the trip.

Once the train returns to the station, families will be invited to meet Paddington. The character will be waiting in the Marley Hill Carriage Shed, where visitors can say hello, wave and have photographs taken.

Children taking part will receive a selection of themed items to enjoy during the experience, including a storybook, activity sheet, crayon, biscuit and a drink.

The Paddington journeys will run at intervals across both days, with each visit lasting around 90 minutes from start to finish, including the meet-and-greet element.

Tickets are priced at £25 for adults and £15 for children. Tanfield Railway, which dates back more than three centuries and widely claimed to be the world’s oldest railway, regularly hosts special events alongside its heritage steam operations.

Image: Fox & Edwards