Opening times
Dates and times are subject to change - please check on the day of your visit for the most up-to-date information, and download our app.
Type of place
Railway
Area
Base Camp
Status
Open
The Great Whipsnade Railway
Take a ride on one of our two impressive steam engines, Excelsior and Superior, as they weave their way through the territories of some of the world's most inspiring animals. Enjoy the magic of a steam-hauled railway - very few zoos have them so it's a great treat to make your day at Whipsnade even more special.
Elephants, rhinos, camels and deer are just some of the mammals you can expect to see on your journey on The Great Whipsnade Railway. We will take you on a safari adventure you will never forget.
When is the train at Whipsnade Zoo running?
The Great Whipsnade Railway has seasonal running times. Please see below:
Dates
- Daily 28 March - 27 September 2026
- Weekends only 3- 18 October 2026
- Daily 24 October - 1 November 2026
Times
- Weekends and school holidays: First train 11.30am, last train 4pm
- Weekdays outside of school holidays: First train 12.30pm, last train 4pm
- From Sunday 29 March the railway will run until 4:30pm during weekends and school holidays.
Please note: If for any reason our steam trains are unavailable we will run our service with our diesel locomotive.
Dates and times are subject to change - please check on the day of your visit for the most up-to-date information, and download our app.
How much does it cost to ride on the steam train?
The Station Store will open 15 minutes before the first train of each day, where tokens can be purchased. Please find fares below:
| Adult (Inc. Seniors.) | £5.00 |
| Essential Carer | FREE |
| Child (Under 3) | FREE |
| Child (Aged 3-15) | £2.50 |
| Child School Group | £1.00 |
| Adult School Group | £5.00 |
| Teacher (when accompanying a school group) | FREE |
| Adult (Inc. Seniors) Gold Member / Fellow | £4.50 |
| Child Gold Member | £2.00 |
Footplate Experience
Ever wanted to find out what it really takes to be one of our steam engine drivers? With our unique Footplate Experience you can get an insight into what goes on, on the footplate while steaming past some of your favourite animals.
Virtual Reality Experiences
Immerse yourself in the wonders of wildlife in a whole new way with our Virtual Reality Experiences here at Whipsnade Zoo.
With six different and unique adventures to choose from there is something to suit everyone!