1 / 3Sherwood Forest Railway
📍 Mansfield, North West
Daily narrow gauge steam train rides through scenic valley between Mansfield and Edwinstowe. Dedicated under-5s play area with ride-ons, Wendy houses, and slides plus adventure playground for older children. Free entry — train tickets only.
Great fun for a couple of hours. The miniature railway is set about 10 mins drive from Sherwood Pines forest so made a great stop off to extend our day out before some bike riding. There is ample free parking, portacabin style toilets that were very clean, a hot food and drink trailer and various toys and climbing frames for the kids up to about age 8 or 9. There is also a free bouncy castle. We didn't have anything to eat, but noticed the price of the food is average for this type of venue, and when you consider that entry is free, all the park areas are free, and the train ride only cost £4 per child and £5 per adult, we agree that its great value for money. The train ride itself was about as long as we expected, but due to the scene in which it is built, would really benefit from being longer, as it's such a beautiful area. The cost to build, run and maintain such a track must be high so wishing it was a longer train ride isn't a criticism, just a hope for a future visit. The staff were lovely and our kids had a fantastic time there. Will definitely go again when it's the summer.
🏆 Family Action Verdict
Best for families with children under 8 who want a budget-friendly day combining train rides with free play. The free entry model means you pay only for the train — everything else, including the play equipment and bouncy castle, is included. Combine with Sherwood Pines (10 minutes away) for a full day of outdoor activities.
ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go
💬 What Families Are Saying
View all reviews →1,075 Google reviews
Jonathan Barratt
a month ago
“Great fun for a couple of hours. The miniature railway is set about 10 mins drive from Sherwood Pines forest so made a great stop off to extend our day out before some bike riding. There is ample free parking, portacabin style toilets that were very clean, a hot food and drink trailer and various toys and climbing frames for the kids up to about age 8 or 9. There is also a free bouncy castle. We didn't have anything to eat, but noticed the price of the food is average for this type of venue, and when you consider that entry is free, all the park areas are free, and the train ride only cost £4 per child and £5 per adult, we agree that its great value for money. The train ride itself was about as long as we expected, but due to the scene in which it is built, would really benefit from being longer, as it's such a beautiful area. The cost to build, run and maintain such a track must be high so wishing it was a longer train ride isn't a criticism, just a hope for a future visit. The staff were lovely and our kids had a fantastic time there. Will definitely go again when it's the summer.”
Kerri Emm
8 months ago
“We took our niece (7) and nephew (2) here, it’s a lovely little place that doesn’t cost a small fortune!! The train is reasonably priced and is good fun! I like that they allow you to take a picnic so you can easily make a day out of it (weather permitting) safe environment especially for under 5 year olds. Yes the equipment is dated but it’s free!! The zip line is good fun especially for the older ones. Toilets were clean and ice creams reasonably priced. Would come again and recommend 👍”
Jenny
7 months ago
“Absolutely lovely, as a family we really enjoyed visiting and would definitely recommend it, loved the play equipment and bouncy castle, free parking and the train tickets were reasonable, there was a food truck on site but picnics welcome and plenty of picnic tables.”
Pam Stone
6 months ago
“Bought the train driving experience fory husband on his birthday. We both really enjoyed the time we spent there. Very friendly, helpful and knowledgeable staff.”
Reviews from Google
Overview
Sherwood Forest Railway runs daily steam trains through a scenic valley, with rides typically operating from mid-morning through the afternoon. The site includes a dedicated under-5s play zone with ride-on toys, Wendy houses, and slides, plus a separate adventure playground for older children. Bouncy castle is included on-site at no extra charge. A food truck operates on weekends and there are ample picnic tables. Free parking on-site.
