Haverthwaite: Steam Railway and History

In Haverthwaite, a steam railway, industrial history, church architecture and a circular walk through varied landscapes offer different ways to shape your stay. The railway runs along a specifically named route; the circular walk follows woodland paths, fields and a short stretch of road. If you choose Haverthwaite as your destination, you can decide how to balance the railway, cultural history and time outdoors.

Steam Railway and Leven Valley

The Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway runs a steam train for 3.5 miles from Haverthwaite to Lakeside Pier at the southern end of Windermere. This clearly identifies the starting point, destination and route length, providing a practical guide for planning your journey.

Steam locomotives pull traditional 1950s carriages through the landscape of the Leven Valley. The character of the journey is shaped not only by the route, but also by the type of locomotive and carriages. The reference to the carriages places their appearance in a particular period, while the Leven Valley provides the landscape setting.

Railway History and Locomotives

The first sod was cut in Haverthwaite on 22 November 1866 for the railway extension to Newby Bridge. The extension was intended to reach Newby Bridge; the steam railway described here, however, runs to Lakeside Pier at the southern end of Windermere. This distinguishes the two destinations mentioned in the railway’s history.

At Haverthwaite station, visitors can see a collection of steam and diesel locomotives in the Engine Shed. The collection offers a broader view of the railway beyond the steam train, including both types of locomotive.

The Tea Room at Haverthwaite station is wheelchair accessible. You can request assistance from staff. Fairburn Ale is also served at the Lakeside & Haverthwaite Railway site; it is brewed locally by the Ulverston Brewing Company.

Circular Walk, Church and Memorial

The circular walk around Haverthwaite Heights follows woodland paths, fields and a short stretch of road. Its route is therefore different in character from the train journey, with sections passing through varied surroundings. Trail conditions may vary; check them before setting out.

St Anne’s Haverthwaite is a stone-built Georgian church. The chapel was built between 1823/24 and 1825. The architectural style provides a classification, while the dates place the building’s construction in time.

The Haverthwaite War Memorial is a memorial to the First World War dating from 1920, with additions relating to the Second World War. It therefore commemorates links to both world wars.

Holy Communion at St Anne’s is open to everyone, including visitors. Service times may change, so check the current schedule before your visit.

Discover more destinations: Allerdale District, Lindal in Furness, Kirkby Stephen, Rusland, Waterhead, Chapel Stile, Brampton, Dockray.

For the main travel overview: Cumbria.