West Somerset Steam Railway station

Bishops Lydeard station is the southern terminus and operational heart of the West Somerset Railway, the longest standard-gauge heritage line in England. From its platforms, restored steam and heritage diesel locomotives haul vintage carriages on the 20-mile journey north through the Quantock Hills to Minehead on the Bristol Channel coast.

The station retains its Victorian character, with a traditional booking hall, signal box and footbridge, and is home to the Gauge Museum, which tells the story of the original Bristol and Exeter Railway branch that opened in 1862. Adjacent sidings and the engine shed host visiting and resident locomotives, often visible to passengers as they wait to board.

Trips along the line call at restored country stations including Crowcombe Heathfield, Stogumber, Williton and Watchet harbour, before running alongside the sea into Minehead. Special events run throughout the year, including steam galas, dining trains, 1940s weekends and Santa specials in December. A buffet, shop and free car park complete the visitor facilities at the Bishops Lydeard end.