A Day Out on the Helston Railway

    Train at the platform at Helston Railway

    Our volunteers recently enjoyed a wonderful day out on the Helston Railway, a charming heritage line lovingly restored and operated entirely by volunteers. Nestled in the Cornish countryside near Truthall, this attraction offers a nostalgic glimpse into the golden age of steam travel – and a warm welcome to everyone who visits.

     

    The Access Cornwall team and volunteers at Helston Railway

    About Helston Railway

    Helston Railway is one of Cornwall’s most remarkable community projects. Brought back to life by a passionate team of volunteers, it preserves and operates a section of the original line that once connected Helston to the main rail network. The team has exciting plans to extend the track even further in the future extending  the trackbed over the Lowertown Viaduct and further towards Helston, continuing their mission to keep this important part of Cornwall’s history alive.

    The ramp to the platform is a short distance from the car park

     

    Our Experience

    On our visit, three of our wheelchair-using volunteers joined us for the trip, and everyone agreed it was a fantastic, relaxed and memorable day out. The volunteers who run the railway were incredibly friendly and couldn’t do enough to help us — from assisting with boarding to sharing stories about the railway’s history.

    The accessible carriage on the train provides space for wheelchair users and companions, with additional seating for carers and friends. Do note that the ramp is quite short and steep due to the narrow platform, and the doorway is approximately 72cm wide, meaning it’s best suited to average or smaller wheelchairs.

    The journey lasts around 35 minutes, meandering through beautiful countryside, with views of trees, fields and glimpses of Cornish wildlife. At Truthall Halt, there’s a 15-minute stop, giving everyone a chance to stretch their legs or enjoy refreshments.

    Holly our volunteer getting on to the accessible carriage

    One of the vintage non accessible carriages.

    Facilities and Accessibility

    While the buffet car at Prospidnick isn’t accessible for those unable to manage steps, the team make sure everyone can enjoy drinks and cakes, which can be brought to passengers in the accessible carriage during the stop at Truthall Halt.

    There’s also a small museum carriage near the start of the line, where you can learn about the history of the railway. It has a single step to enter, but most of the displays are visible from outside for wheelchair users.

    Parking at the station is free, and there are a few accessible spaces close to the platform, making access straightforward for visitors with mobility needs.

    Helston Railway Museum

     

    Tickets and Special Events

    Standard ticket prices are very reasonable, and carers travel free. The railway is currently running its much-loved Christmas train experiences, offering a festive journey with decorations and seasonal treats before closing for winter and reopening again in the spring.

    A Huge Thank You

    We’d like to extend our thanks to all the Helston Railway volunteers who made our day so special. Their dedication and passion for preserving Cornwall’s railway heritage truly shine through.

    To find out more, buy tickets, or even get involved as a volunteer, visit www.helstonrailway.co.uk.