Family Adventures on the Swanage Railway

🚂 Family Adventures on the Swanage Railway This Season

The Swanage Railway isn’t just about steam and scenery – this season, it’s all about imagination, discovery, and family fun. From meeting beloved storybook characters to stepping into thrilling new tales, there’s something magical waiting for children (and grown-ups too!).

📚 Meet the Author: Simon Hall

26th – 28th September

All aboard for adventure! To celebrate the launch of the fourth book in Simon Hall’s exciting children’s series, Swanage Railway are offering for you to meet the author.

In the book Tom, Holly, Mum, Dad, and Pip the cat are on their spring holiday train ride – until a storm whisks them into the prehistoric seas, where they face the mighty Liopleurodon! With the iconic T3 class No.563 locomotive leading the way, young readers and their families can dive into a thrilling Jurassic Coast mystery filled with time travel, fossils, and daring escapades.

📖 Meet Simon Hall in person and get your book signed – the perfect keepsake for little adventurers!

🐉 Zog at Harmans Cross

Saturday 27th & Sunday 28th September

Climb aboard for a roaring day out with everyone’s favourite friendly dragon – Zog!

Zog will be making special appearances at Harmans Cross Village Hall (right next to the station) throughout the day, where children can meet him, snap photos, and share a dragon-sized hug.

Event details:

• Appearance times: 10:30, 12:00, 13:10, 14:30, 15:50
• Includes return travel on our steam or diesel trains between Swanage, Corfe Castle, and Norden
• Enjoy a full day exploring Dorset’s Jurassic Coast – trains, castles, coastlines and dragons all in one adventure!

🎟️ Ticket prices:

• Adult: £22.00
• Child (5–15): £11.00
• Family (2 adults + 3 children): £60.00
• Under 5s: Free

➡️ Book your Zog tickets now to secure your preferred time slot – spaces are limited!

🌟 A Season to Remember

With stories that spark imaginations and characters that step off the page, the Swanage Railway is the perfect place to make family memories this autumn. Whether your children dream of meeting a dragon or stepping into a prehistoric adventure, there’s no better way to combine fun, learning, and the magic of rail travel.

Note: This event listing is a guide only. For up to date information and or changes to the event please check with the organiser or venue

Find more family friendly local events on our Visit Purbeck What’s On guide.