School Trips to Isle Of Wight Steam Railway

What about toilets?

There are toilet facilities at Havenstreet - the main station on the line. Because of their age there are no toilets on board the trains, but journeys don't last much longer than around 40 minutes maximum. There are no toilets at either Wootton or Smallbrook stations, but trains depart here regularly for Havenstreet.

Are there any first aid facilities?

Staff are in radio contact

Is there somewhere to eat lunch?

There are picnic tables available in various spots around the grounds at Havenstreet, and an amphitheatre in the woodlands adjacent which can also be used. There's a cafe serving hot meals and snacks, and an ice cream shack in the warmer months too.

How does payment work?

We will pre-book your visit for you and your entry charges will be paid directly by Education Destination. All you need to do is show up at the agreed time, line the kids up outside, identify yourselves to staff and you'll be in the hands of your tour guide in no time!

Are there any considerations regarding infection control?

Hand sanitisers throughout and trains are regularly deep cleaned. Your group will be kept together as one bubble during train rides.

Is there anywhere on-site or nearby selling snacks, drinks or ice cream?

Yes - there is a cafe and an ice-cream kiosk

Are there any special requests or processes for group leaders on arrival?

The coach will drop you off in the main car park adjacent to the Steam Railway in Havenstreet. Take with you everything you might need for the duration of your visit, bearing in mind that some of the attraction is outdoors.

Head for the ticket office and assemble the children outside, without blocking the entrance. If you are not met, an adult should announce arrival and you will be asked to wait for your tour guide.

Your tour guide will then meet you and stay with you throughout your visit. Most visits will consist of a short video introduction outlining the history of the railway, a tour of the restoration workshops, a walk around Train Story - an interactive museum, and a ride on the train itself. There will also usually be time for play. The exact running order will depend on the number of other groups on site that day.

Are there any toilets on-site or nearby?

There are toilets at the main station building. There are no toilets on the trains, so ensure everyone is fresh before boarding as it may be an hour before you arrive back.

Is there space to sit and eat a packed lunch picnic?

There is a large field behind the main station building at Havenstreet with picnic benches. There is also a woodland area off the field which has benches and a performance stage.

How much time should we allow for a visit?

To make the most of a trip to the railway, a good half day is needed although there's enough to do here to fill a whole day if taken at a slower pace and best use is made of the play areas and woodland walk adjacent.

How accessible is the railway?

The trains themselves consist of original 19th and early 20th century carriages however there are always helpful staff on hand to assist with boarding and alighting. The station grounds are generally on the level and paved. Within Train Story a wheelchair lift is available. The only area that might present difficulties is the optional woodland walk as this is uneven hardened mud or loose aggregate paths for the most part.