​All aboard for a real ale trail and culinary experiences with Churnet Valley Railway

What’s better than sipping on a selection of the UK’s finest ales while enjoying a slow and relaxing train ride through some of the most stunningly beautiful countryside?

Absolutely nothing! And welcome to Churnet Valley Railway’s fantastic Real Ale Trail, which has turned a classic journey through the Staffordshire Moorlands into a dining experience to relish, combining vintage carriages, attentive service, and curated menus.

Aboard Churnet Valley Railway, real ale fans and discerning diners can trade the usual restaurant view for stunning rolling countryside and the hiss of a vintage whistle, on the award-winning steam railway where every dish is crafted with exceptional care, with many freshly prepared in the onboard kitchen, and others thoughtfully sourced to ensure quality and taste.

The Rail Ale Trail Staffordshire 2026

Settle in for a laid-back weekend of real ale, live music, good food, and heritage train travel through the Churnet Valley.

The Rail Ale Trail is more than just a beer festival - it's a chance to explore the line, enjoy the journey, and discover characterful stops along the way.

The highlight is Consall Station, where the main event takes place in a village only accessible by rail, giving the festival a secluded, exclusive feel that makes the whole experience even more memorable.

With frequent trains running throughout the weekend, you can relax on board, hop off for the live music and food stalls, and enjoy a summer event that feels a world away from the ordinary.

Spanning five and a half miles, with events on board and off, the Rail Ale Trail is the perfect way to spend a July weekend with family and friends.

And with a ride through the beautiful Churnet Valley aboard an impeccably-restored heritage locomotive, what are you waiting for?

Memorable dining

Foodie fans will not be disappointed by the exciting culinary adventures awaiting on board Churnet Valley Railway.

The heritage steam train dining service combines the romance of traditional rail travel with freshly prepared meals served at your table.

New for 2026, try the Mexican Dining Train, featuring a steam-hauled journey with a three-course meal inspired by Mexican flavours.

The train departs Froghall Station at 7pm. Guests are seated in heritage dining carriages as the train travels through the Churnet Valley, following the river through a wooded stretch of Staffordshire countryside.

Priced at £49.99 per person, the experience provides a relaxed alternative to a traditional restaurant setting.

Dinner is served at your table throughout the journey, allowing time to enjoy each course as the train moves through the landscape.

The menu takes a more rustic approach to Mexican cooking, focusing on depth of flavour and traditional techniques rather than the familiar restaurant staples. It’s a quieter, less predictable take on the cuisine, shaped by slower cooking and more regional influences.

A licensed bar is available on board, and the railway’s dining staff provides service.

The experience suits couples, small groups, or those looking for a different way to spend a summer evening in the Staffordshire Moorlands.

Enjoy a Greek culinary experience

Running on selected Friday evenings from June to September 2026, the train departs Froghall Station at 7pm. Guests are welcomed into heritage dining carriages and shown to their reserved table as the locomotive prepares to leave the platform.

As the train sets off through the wooded valley, a three-course meal is served at your table.

The menu takes a rustic approach to Greek cooking, focusing on simple, well-seasoned dishes made for relaxed dining rather than formal presentation.

Throughout the journey, the train follows the River Churnet, with views of woodland and hills from the carriage windows. The gentle movement of the train and the steady rhythm of the locomotive create an unhurried, sociable setting.

Spud and Steam

Enjoy a unique steam train experience in Staffordshire with the brand-new Spud and Steam offer at Churnet Valley Railway.

Running on Wednesdays and Saturdays from June through September, Spud and Steam is a simple and affordable way to enjoy a warm meal while travelling on one of the Midlands’ most scenic heritage railways.

Pre-order your freshly baked jacket potato, collect it from the Tea Room at Froghall Station, and take it onboard to enjoy during your steam train journey through the stunning Churnet Valley.

Whether you’re visiting with family, planning a relaxed midweek trip, or looking for a unique heritage railway experience near the Peak District, Spud and Steam adds a tasty extra to your journey.

A great day out

On selected Saturday evenings between June and September, enjoy a Pie and Mash night.

Departing from Froghall Station at 6.30pm, this 22-mile round trip offers a scenic journey through the tranquil Churnet Valley and into the rolling Staffordshire Moorlands, all as the golden evening light surrounds you.

Your freshly prepared pie and mash, made to order and collected from Froghall Tearoom, can be enjoyed at your seat as the countryside drifts by.

Whether you’re with friends, family, or simply looking for a unique way to unwind at the weekend, this evening experience is all about simple pleasures done right.

Pre-booking is essential. Tickets are on sale now via the website.

Please note that alcoholic products are only available to people aged 18+. Churnet Valley Railway follows the 'Challenge 25 policy', so you may be asked for ID. Please drink responsibly. Do not drink if you are pregnant.