The sound of the whistle. The motion of the carriage. The rhythm of the engine chugging away. These are just some of the moments that make riding a historic train so special. And thankfully, Victoria is full of heritage train rides for you to experience. From famous steam rides closer to Melbourne, to thrilling adventures around regional Victoria, there’s so many ways for you to step back in time, and travel as though you are in a bygone era. Take a moment to sit back, slow down, and watch the landscape unfold, because here, the journey is just as special as the destination. Without further ado, here are some incredible heritage train rides for you to check out around Melbourne and Victoria.
1. Puffing Billy Railway
We’re kicking of this list with the iconic Puffing Billy Railway. Located in the Dandenong Ranges, this enchanting steam train ride has made many memories for children around Melbourne and Victoria. Sit on the carriage sills and let your legs swing free, as the train travels across trestle bridges and underneath towering trees. There’s daily train rides, as well as special seasonal events, like the popular Train of Lights and the magical Polar Express. Plan your visit here.
2. Steamrail Victoria
Steamrail Victoria has been restoring and operating heritage trains for over 50 years. In their extensive fleet, you’ll find a huge range of steam, diesel and electric locomotives, as well as a vast range of historic carriages that are ready to transport you back through time. This non-profit organisation regularly runs tours to destinations around Victoria. Hop aboard The Vintage Train and travel to the goldrush city of Ballarat, or try one of their other tours to Shepparton, Seymour and more. See their upcoming tours here.
3. Mornington Tourist Railway
The next time you’re in Mornington, step back in time and check out the Mornington Tourist Railway. Departing three times every Sunday, the heritage train will wind its way through the country side, passing rolling hills, small towns and green pastures. All trains leave from Moorooduc Station, which is home to their ticket office, souvenir and kiosk stands, and steam and diesel fleet. Return train rides last for about an hour, and will take you to Mornington and back. See more here.
4. Yarra Valley Railway
The Yarra Valley Railway is a volunteer, non-for-profit organisation. They’re restoring the railway between Healesville and Yarra Glen. Departing from Healesville, you’ll travel on a fully restored 22RM Walker Railmotor, cross the Watts River, and reach this historic brick tunnel at Tarrawarra. At the moment, the tunnel is undergoing maintenance, so once you reach the tunnel, the train will turn and bring you back to Healesville. Along the way, you’ll see stunning rolling hills, and maybe even some wildlife! The journey takes about 35 minutes and runs on Sundays and public holidays. Throughout the year, there’s also special events. See more here.
5. The Bellarine Railway
The Bellarine Railway is a not-for-profit, volunteer organisation with 13 steam locomotives, five diesel locomotives and two diesel railcars. Departing from Queenscliff Station, you’ll go on a scenic trip around Swan Bay on this historic train ride to Lakes Siding. Seats are on a first-come, first-served basis, and friendly dogs are welcome to come along. Trains depart most Sundays, with extra days for public holidays and school holidays. Throughout the year, there’s also special themed events, including a Polar Express Train Ride and a Thomas the Tank Engine experience. Learn more here.
6. Victorian Goldfields Railway
Journey between the gold mining towns of Castlemaine and Maldon with the help of Victorian Goldfields Railway. Opt for First Class, and feel like you’re in the Golden Age of rail travel, complete with a full bar and refreshment service. Or, ride in the wooden Excursion class carriage, filled with family compartments and windows you can open. The trip take about 50 minutes each way, and the train from Castlemaine spends 2.5 hours in Maldon. Throughout the year, there’s special experiences, like Murder on the Orient Express. See more here.
7. Walhalla Goldfields Railway
Take a trip to the tiny town of Walhalla, and go on a remarkable adventure with Walhalla Goldfields Railway. Starting from the historic Walhalla train station, you’ll travel over trestle bridges through Stringers Creek Gorge. Then, you’ll move downhill, through Happy Creek, towards Thomson Station. A one way trip takes around 20 minutes, and a return journey takes one hour. Booking ahead is recommended, as the Kasey locomotive can only pull two carriages. Trains typically run on Wednesdays and weekends. See more here.
8. The Q Train
Is all of this travelling making you hungry? Why don’t you take a trip on The Q Train? This fabulous foodie experience will take you on a trip from Drysdale to Queenscliff and back. Along the way, you’ll indulge in a degustation menu that showcases produce from Geelong, the Bellarine and the Otways. Drinks are included if you travel in the more private First Class, and you can also purchase drinks in Q class. The train is usually run with diesel locomotives, but on the first two weekends of each month, The Q Train is hauled by a steam locomotive. While it costs slightly more to take the steam train, it’s still a picture-perfect experience. Learn more here.
9. Slow Rail Journeys
Explore regional Victoria on heritage trains from Slow Rail Journeys. Run by volunteer group, Seven-0-Seven Operations, you’ll relax in restored sleeping and lounge carriages as you travel to places like Mildura, the Goldfields region, the Murray River and the Silo Art Trail. These tours take multiple days, and these historic rail journeys include the cost of food and accommodation. See all the upcoming tours here.
10. The Blues Train
Feel like you’re at a mini music festival while travelling on a heritage train. On The Blues Train, you’ll journey along the picturesque Bellarine railway, while listening to live blues and roots musicians. There’s stops along the way, so you can pause, refresh, and swap carriages to check out a whole new artist. On board, there’s a hearty buffet feast for you to enjoy. When the train is stopped, you can also pop over to the bar for drinks. The Blues Train season runs from October to May each year. Learn more here.