Step Back in Time on One of the Chilterns’ Most Charming Railway Adventures
Set at the foot of the Chiltern Hills, the Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway offers a nostalgic journey through beautiful countryside on lovingly restored steam and heritage diesel trains. Run entirely by passionate volunteers, this award‑winning heritage railway recreates a country branch line as it was in the 1950s.
Trains depart from Platform 4 at Princes Risborough on Sundays between March and October, plus selected Saturdays and Thursdays in the school holidays. To get you in the festive spirit, there are Santa Specials in November and December.
Travelling from the historic market town of Princes Risborough in Buckinghamshire, visitors can enjoy a relaxed return journey to Chinnor village in Oxfordshire, enjoying a slower pace of life, while the views open up and the romance of rail travel truly comes alive.
A Railway with a Story
Preserved and operated by dedicated volunteers, the railway plays a vital role in keeping local railway heritage alive. Recent milestones include the opening of an independently built extension into Princes Risborough, and the restoration of the massive Princes Risborough North signal box, which towers beside the mainline tracks.
For visitors, this means a warm welcome, real passion, and the chance to support a living piece of British heritage.
Why Visit?
Authentic heritage rail travel
Ride aboard beautifully maintained steam and vintage diesel locomotives, complete with traditional carriages and historical touches that capture the golden age of railways.
Chiltern Hills scenery
The route runs alongside the Chiltern escarpment, offering peaceful countryside views, wildlife sightings and a refreshing escape from everyday life.
A perfect day out for all ages
From toddlers to grandparents, there’s something for everyone, with family‑friendly staff giving a warm welcome to passengers of all ages.
More than just a train ride
Enhance your journey with special dining experiences, such as classic cream teas, sparkling afternoon teas, and ploughman’s lunches, served in the restaurant car on board selected services.
Highlights & Experiences
- Steam & Diesel Services – enjoy different traction types throughout the season
- Special Events – Teddy Bear weekends, superhero days, seasonal celebrations, galas and quizzes
- Behind‑the‑Scenes Experiences – cab rides, footplate observer sessions and brake van rides for enthusiasts
- Station Café & Gift Shop – relax at Chinnor station or pick up a souvenir to remember your visit
- Accessible & Inclusive – wheelchair‑accessible services available. Please pre-book wheelchair tickets
Ticket prices – at a glance
Visitors to the Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway can enjoy a great‑value heritage experience, with simple pricing that makes it accessible for families, couples and rail enthusiasts.
Standard fares (Day Rover tickets, valid on every train and all day long)
Adults: typically £16, depending on service type and date, with concessions for seniors and local residents.
Children (3–15): typically £5 on standard service days, with seasonal special offers
Under 3s: travel free
Family‑friendly value
Regular kids‑for‑£1 and kids‑go‑free themed days, such as Teddy Bear or Superhero events, make this a particularly affordable day out for families travelling by train. The station cafe at Chinnor serves freshly-prepared food at very reasonable prices.
Dining & special experiences
Cream tea, afternoon tea and lunch packages are available on selected dates for an additional supplement, combining travel and catering into one ticket price.
Cab rides, footplate experiences and gala events are priced separately and must be booked in advance.
Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway FAQs
How do I get to Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway by train?
Getting there is easy with Chiltern Railways. Simply travel to Princes Risborough station, where many heritage railway services begin. If your journey starts from Chinnor, the station is around a 10-minute taxi ride from Princes Risborough.
Is the Chinnor & Princes Risborough Railway suitable for families?
Absolutely. The heritage railway is a fantastic day out for all ages, with beautifully restored steam and diesel trains, scenic countryside views, station cafés and regular family-friendly events throughout the year.
Can I bring my dog on the train?
Yes. Well-behaved small dogs are welcome to travel free of charge, provided they are kept on a short lead. Assistance dogs are also welcome throughout the railway.
Reasons to Choose Chiltern Railways
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