Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC Reviews 

13,994
TrustScore 5 out of 5

4.8

While we don't verify specific claims because reviewers' opinions are their own, we may label reviews as "Verified" when we can confirm a business interaction took place. Read more

To protect platform integrity, every review on our platform—verified or not—is screened by our 24/7 automated software. This technology is designed to identify and remove content that breaches our guidelines, including reviews that are not based on a genuine experience. We recognise we may not catch everything, and you can flag anything you think we may have missed. Read more

Review summary

Created with AI, based on recent reviews

Evaluating 4,579 reviews, reviewers overwhelmingly had a great experience with this company. Customers frequently praise the friendly and attentive staff, noting that the volunteers and team members go above and beyond to ensure everyone feels welcome and well cared for throughout the journey. Travelers also deeply enjoy the delicious meals, comfortable and clean carriages, and truly relaxing scenic views of the surrounding countryside. Though some reviewers were not happy with unexpected route changes, slow speeds, and frequent extended stops that caused discomfort, most passengers still appreciated the excellent service. A few people also mentioned that carriages could become warm or that certain minor details fell short of their expectations.

What people talk about most

Staff

Users describe positive interactions with staff, highlighting that everyone was friendly, approachable, and... See more

Service

Customers had positive experiences with service, noting that everything was very well organized and... See more

User experience

Consumers find user experience to be delightful, praising the welcoming staff, relaxing train journeys... See more

Product

Reviewers highlight positive aspects of product offerings, particularly praising the delicious and tasty... See more

Quality

People report positive experiences with quality, highlighting delicious and hot food alongside comfortable,... See more

Reviews shaping this summary

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The whole booking process went smoothly and email and phone communication was excellent. The 10 of us enjoyed a scenic steam train ride passing through the picturesque churnet valley from froghall... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

We had Sunday lunch on the train, and it was fantastic. The coach was clean and the seats like armchairs, and the table beautifully laid with a tablecloth. The staff were very attentive and prompt, a... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Had the Greek dining experience. Lovely evening very well organised. Staff very kind and attentive. Food was very tasty was pleased by my gluten free option. Wine very smooth and good quality. Main c... See more

Company replied

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

The staff are the most impressive part of the railway. From the Welcoming station and tea room to the on-board service and catering staff. they all put 110% into your experience. The dining car was... See more

Company replied


Company details

  1. #5 of 12 best companies in Tourist attraction
  2. #1 of 1 best companies in Breakfast restaurant
  3. #1 of 1 best companies in English restaurant
  4. #3 of 3 best companies in Heritage Preservation
  5. #2 of 5 best companies in Railway Company

About Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Written by the company

Churnet Valley Railway: A Journey Through Time and Scenic Beauty

Hop on board Churnet Valley Railway, Staffordshire’s premier heritage railway, for an unforgettable journey through England's scenic countryside. Catering to a wide range of audiences, Churnet Valley Railway offers not just a trip, but an experience designed to delight all ages.

Entertainment for Everyone: Whether it’s a fun-filled day out with the kids, who will be thrilled by special children's events like The Mad Hatters Tea Train Party, an exotic and romantic lunch excursion for couples, or their tipsy Rail Ale Trail for you and your mates – there's something for everyone at Churnet Valley Railway. Seasonal events like their PolarExpress™ Christmas Train Ride or the Midsummer Murder Mystery evenings offer entertainment that stays fresh throughout the year.

Heritage Presentation: Operated primarily by a dedicated team of volunteers, Churnet Valley Railway takes immense pride in preserving and showcasing the golden age of British rail travel. The meticulously restored steam locomotives, along with vintage carriages, offer passengers an authentic glimpse into the past.

Partnerships Galore: Beyond providing a thrilling day out, Churnet Valley Railway collaborates with external partners to bring Staffordshire some of its most loved events. From bringing festival-goers to villages accessible only by rail to hosting engaging and interactive educational events for children, Churnet Valley continues to offer new and exciting options to the communities they serve. Hop on board and experience the unique blend of nostalgia, scenic beauty, and warm hospitality that only Churnet Valley Railway can offer.


Contact info

4.8

Excellent

TrustScore 5 out of 5

14k reviews

5-star
4-star
3-star
2-star
1-star

Asks customers to review

This company invites their customers to review, whether positive or negative

Replied to 100% of negative reviews

Typically replies within 48 hours

How this company uses Trustpilot

See how their reviews and ratings are sourced, scored, and moderated.

4.8

All reviews

(13,994)

4,381 reviews in the last 12 months

Write a review
Companies on Trustpilot aren't allowed to offer incentives or pay to hide reviews. Reviews are the opinions of individual users and not of Trustpilot. Read more

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Awesome festival

I’ve been coming to this amazing little festival for few years now such a great laugh bring all your friends and just be yourself can’t go wrong amazing beer on amazing food and amazing entertainment to

18 July 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Thank you for your lovely review, please visit us again soon.

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

All good couldn’t fault the evening at…

All good couldn’t fault the evening at all, as usual . Excellent value for money and all staff cheery and helpful. Well done everyone. Looking forward to the Balti Express on 19-Sept another good evening out!

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Thank you so much for the lovely review that you have left us. We're really pleased that you enjoyed your trip with us. All of the Churnet Valley Railway team pull together to ensure that you have a wonderful & memorable visit.
Please come again soon!

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

Enjoyed the experience

Enjoyed the experience but had noises kids in our carriage which spoilt it a bit. Perhaps seats/carriages could be Allocated based on families, dogs or couples?

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

We're glad that you enjoyed the trip but not the company. We could try to allocate but you would still have no idea who you would be sat next to & with allocated seats you would not have the opportunity to move to another carriage.

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great day out

We made a mistake and arrived at the wrong station after putting the post code in from the bottom of our reciept . The staff were fantastic they made sure we didnt miss out on our sausage barn and cup of tea.
We thoroughly enjoyed our day and are looking to return.

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Thank you so much for the lovely review that you have left us. We're really pleased that you enjoyed your trip with us. All of the Churnet Valley Railway team pull together to ensure that you have a wonderful & memorable visit.
Please come again soon!

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Well organised good communications…

Well organised good communications prior to visit. Great value for the money

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Thank you so much for the lovely review that you have left us. We're really pleased that you enjoyed your trip with us. All of the Churnet Valley Railway team pull together to ensure that you have a wonderful & memorable visit.
Please come again soon!

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Ipstones Community Day Out…

I can't praise the experience enough despite the initial disappointment of the change in the route due to extreme weather conditions.We were a party of 36 having various food options.Both the food and efficient distribution were excellent and the staff were very helpful getting people on and off the train,when needed.Overall it was a brilliantly successful and enjoyable day out.I can fully recommend the experience.

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Thank you so much for the lovely review that you have left us. We're really pleased that you enjoyed your trip with us. All of the Churnet Valley Railway team pull together to ensure that you have a wonderful & memorable visit.
Please come again soon!

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Very well organised

Very well organised, we took my 88 year old mum with us, very relaxing, didn’t want it to end, highly recommended x

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Thank you so much for the lovely review that you have left us. We're really pleased that you enjoyed your trip with us. All of the Churnet Valley Railway team pull together to ensure that you have a wonderful & memorable visit.
Please come again soon!

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

All the staff were very friendly, great experience

All the staff were very friendly and helpful. 1st time here and will definitely be back. Lovely how all the staff at the station waved us all off. Food was vey nice as well.

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Thank you so much for the lovely review that you have left us. We're really pleased that you enjoyed your trip with us. All of the Churnet Valley Railway team pull together to ensure that you have a wonderful & memorable visit.
Please come again soon!

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Great experience we'll organised with…

Great experience we'll organised with very friendly and competent staff.

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Thank you so much for the lovely review that you have left us. We're really pleased that you enjoyed your trip with us. All of the Churnet Valley Railway team pull together to ensure that you have a wonderful & memorable visit.
Please come again soon!

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

We had the most amazing trip

We had the most amazing trip. The train was beautiful the food was so tasty and the trip was so relaxing. The staff were very attentive. Highly recommend.

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Thank you so much for the lovely review that you have left us. We're really pleased that you enjoyed your trip with us. All of the Churnet Valley Railway team pull together to ensure that you have a wonderful & memorable visit.
Please come again soon!

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

A brilliant day

Very well organised from start to finish. All staff were very friendly it was clear they wanted you to enjoy the whole experience

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Thank you so much for the lovely review that you have left us. We're really pleased that you enjoyed your trip with us. All of the Churnet Valley Railway team pull together to ensure that you have a wonderful & memorable visit.
Please come again soon!

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Very well orgsnisex

Very well organised. Good bunch of volunteers.

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Thank you so much for the lovely review that you have left us. We're really pleased that you enjoyed your trip with us. All of the Churnet Valley Railway team pull together to ensure that you have a wonderful & memorable visit.
Please come again soon!

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

A great steam railway experience

A great steam railway experience. Beautiful steam engine and carriages. Very well organised and tasty food.

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

That's lovely to hear, thank you.

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

First time on the quiz train.

First time on the quiz train.
We went with friends as it was something different to do & we thoroughly enjoyed it & will definitely be back again.
It was a fun night.

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Thank you so much for the lovely review that you have left us. We're really pleased that you enjoyed your trip with us. All of the Churnet Valley Railway team pull together to ensure that you have a wonderful & memorable visit.
Please come again soon!

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

I received lots of information on the…

I received lots of information on the day plus a reminder that was great. The train was in the end a beautiful steam engine. Very pleased. Due to the weather the change to where we went was understandable. What could be improved is the handing out of the food ordered in the canteen , it was very cramped and slow. Is there another window that could be used ?

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

We're glad that you enjoyed your trip with us & for your understanding of the route change. Good idea about the tearoom, I'll put that forward.

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 5 out of 5 stars

Everything amazing!

Everything! The carriages are lovely, we did the Bombay Express. Seats so comfortable, staff so helpful, service so organised. Food really tasty and good helpings! We had done this experience last year but came with friends this time, they were so impressed with everything. Really enjoyed the day.

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

Thank you so much for the lovely review that you have left us. We're really pleased that you enjoyed your trip with us. All of the Churnet Valley Railway team pull together to ensure that you have a wonderful & memorable visit.
Please come again soon!

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

Rated 4 out of 5 stars

Lovely ride out on a steam train

Lovely ride out on a steam train. Unfortunately the journey was not as far as it should have been due to fire risk but what we had was good. Bacon butty was great 👍

15 August 2026
Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC logo

Reply from Churnet Valley Railway (1992) PLC

We're glad you enjoyed your journey with us & your bacon butty. The journey was actually longer as you got to go twice.

Kind regards
Kaaren
01538 360522

The Trustpilot Experience

Anyone can write a Trustpilot review. People who write reviews have ownership to edit or delete them at any time, and they’ll be displayed as long as an account is active.

We use dedicated people and clever technology to safeguard our platform. Find out how we combat fake reviews.

Learn about Trustpilot’s review process.

Here are 8 tips for writing great reviews.

Verification can help ensure real people are writing the reviews you read on Trustpilot.

Offering incentives for reviews or asking for them selectively can bias the TrustScore, which goes against our guidelines.

Take a closer look