The Gruffalo at Tanfield Railway 2026: Steam Train Family Day Out

The Gruffalo is heading to Tanfield Railway on Sunday 27 September 2026 for a special family steam train experience combining a heritage railway journey, children’s treats and a meet-and-greet with one of Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler’s best-loved characters.

Latest Update

The current booking page lists Sunday 27 September 2026 at Tanfield Railway, with departures from Andrew’s House Station in Gateshead. Pre-booking is strongly recommended for this character event.

What Is The Gruffalo at Tanfield Railway?

The experience includes a return journey aboard Tanfield Railway’s vintage steam train, followed by the chance to see and meet The Gruffalo. The train journey runs through the North East countryside from Andrew’s House towards Sunniside and East Tanfield.

Children receive complimentary treats as part of the experience, including an activity pack, crayons, a biscuit and juice, before the Gruffalo meet-and-greet and photo opportunity.

Dates, Location & Tickets

• Date: Sunday 27 September 2026
• Departure point: Andrew’s House Station, Tanfield Railway, Gateshead NE16 5ET
• Adult: £25
• Child: £15
• Baby in arms: Free
• Private compartment for up to six: £119.95
• Private compartment for up to eight: £139.95

How Long Does It Last?

The full visit is approximately 90 minutes, including the Gruffalo meet-and-greet. The steam train journey itself lasts around 50–60 minutes.

Why Families Might Love It

• A proper heritage steam train journey rather than only a character appearance.
• A familiar Julia Donaldson and Axel Scheffler character for younger children.
• An activity pack and small refreshments for children are included.
• A Gruffalo meet-and-greet and photo opportunity form part of the visit.
• It combines books, family days out and railway heritage in one experience.

Accessibility & Practical Information

Tanfield Railway has step-free access from the car park to the platforms at Andrew’s House, boarding ramps and a specially converted accessible compartment on one of its carriages. Wheelchair spaces are limited, so visitors with mobility requirements should contact the organisers before booking.

Accessible toilets are available at Andrew’s House Station, Marley Hill carriage shed and East Tanfield Station. There are no toilets on board the train. Dogs are not permitted on this particular character journey.

Plan Your Visit

Free parking is available at Andrew’s House Station. Families can bring their own food and drink on board, and there is also a café at the station.

A Little Learning Connection

This is the sort of family day out that quietly mixes fun with learning: storytelling and character recognition from The Gruffalo, railway and transport heritage, countryside observation and a hands-on activity pack for children.

Frequently Asked Questions

When is The Gruffalo at Tanfield Railway in 2026?

How long is the Gruffalo steam train experience?

Is Tanfield Railway wheelchair accessible?

Can we take food on the train?

More Gruffalo & Julia Donaldson Adventures

Read our The Gruffalo’s Child theatre review, explore our Julia Donaldson Author Spotlight, or see our current Stick Man Live guide for more family ideas.

More Family Days Out