Northampton & Lamport Railway - (Pitsford and Brampton,Station) — Attraction in Pitsford

We were quite impressed by this little preserved railway, who could manage a couple of saddle tanks in steam and a large diesel or two for a Bank Holiday at the end of August. A few days ago we were at the Nene Valley Railway, who couldn't do steam hauling that day.

This tourist attraction is easy to find and has plenty of parking. There's a really good website which explains everything and gives you directions too, plus all the event information you could want.

On arrival, we were greeted by a cheerful man in railway uniform and as we'd bought tickets for a particular train online, where to go to get our confirmation email scanned and traditional card tickets issued. It pays to be prompt, by the way, otherwise it was standing room only!

The trip was good fun, out and back a couple of times, then back to the station. It takes about half an hour.

There's a excellent gift shop and all facilities with good clean toilets.

There's a goods van cafe counter where you order your food and drinks, then sit outdoors at tables, though some are under a canopy. Bit of a scrum for the limited seats! There was one poor woman cooking hot food, who we felt a bit sorry for. It took us 45 minutes to get our food order for three, on a 20 minute promise, as there seemed to be loads of orders queuing and staff organising their own hot food orders too, which must have been delaying things. It was nice when we finally got it but a long, long wait with a restive 3 year old!!!

All in all, great facilities on this small site. All staff and volunteers friendly and helpful. Nice train trip. Cafe might need a bit more thought , though plaudits (Gold medal more like!) to the cook....don't know how she did it all!!!

Thanks to everyone at this brilliant small railway. We loved it!!! We'll...

Small preserved railway just outside Northampton. The line runs along side part of the Brampton Valley Way walk and cycle path, which is where the railway used to run before it was closed and brought back through the use of volunteers. Easily reached by road and by foot from the pathway from Northampton (or Market Harborough if you're energetic), plenty of parking on site with an overflow car park too. A static mark 3 buffet car is on site for refreshments and a small souvenir shop. Prices are very steep, £7.50 on the day for just one trip of a mile with no re-rides permitted (50p discount if you buy online). I am certainly all for supporting a preserved railway as they are a charitable trust, however looking at the pricing structure should be one of their focus points. Even raise the base price by 50p for unlimited rides, as those who stay for another journey are more likely to use the buffet, gaining further revenue. Staff were all very friendly and toilets available at the one station. A further extension to the line is planned in the near future. A class 31 diesel provided the traction with mark 2 carriages on the day I visited. Services run hourly and travel half a mile one way, half a mile the other, then half a mile back the same way you came from to give a 30...

We came here as a family and had such a lovely day out. It’s a smaller heritage railway, but it’s full of charm and character. The station at Pitsford and Brampton has a really nostalgic feel, and everything is run by friendly, passionate volunteers who make you feel genuinely welcome.

The train ride isn’t long, but it was just enough for our kids to get excited without getting restless. They loved watching the steam engine up close and waving at people as we passed by. There’s also a little museum and some railway exhibits that kept them curious, plus a tearoom where we grabbed some drinks and cake — simple but tasty.

It’s clear a lot of care goes into this place, and we really appreciated the relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere. We’re already thinking about coming back for one of the themed events like the Santa Specials or a diesel day. If you’re looking for a wholesome, easygoing trip with a bit of old-school fun, this place is definitely...