Kirkby Stephen East is a historic station and steam railway, opened in 1861, and now cared for by volunteers of the Stainmore Railway Company. Explore our site to discover our history and ​get information about visiting us. ​

Imagine a place where time had stopped and you could enjoy a steam railway experience from the past? Well, you’re thinking about Kirkby Stephen East!
Savour the atmosphere of a country station as it would have been in the 1950s. You’re sure to learn lots on your visit and have an enjoyable time.
We are home to a number of historic Victorian and other vintage locomotives, carriages and wagons which are well worth a look. You can explore our station, which was built in 1861 and served the community here for 100 years, visit the glamorous 1930s buffet car (when trains are running) and wander around our small museum.

When We're Open

Please note that Kirkby Stephen East is currently closed until further notice as a result of the COVID-19 outbreak. All our events for July and August have now been cancelled. We are planning how to return visitors to the site and hope to announce COVID-secure reopening plans soon.

We are normally open for visitors to look around our historic station on Saturdays and Sundays between April 11th and December 5th, between 10am and 4pm. Admission is free.

For details of when you can ride steam trains at Kirkby Stephen East, click the button below.

Support Stainmore Railway Company with a purchase in our online shop today!

Featured Locomotive - North Eastern Railway No.910

Kirkby Stephen East is home to a 145 year old express steam locomotive - the Concorde of its day. Built by the North Eastern Railway, who ran the Stainmore route through Kirkby Stephen East, it worked for fifty years before being withdrawn from service as 'out of date'. That was 95 years ago! It was preserved and is now part of the National Collection, owned by us all.

How to Support Us

Kirkby Stephen East has been developed over the last 20 years through the dedication of volunteers and the goodwill of the community.

We are currently undertaking transformational projects to improve our educational offer and visitor experience. 

You can help us in several ways, including becoming a shareholder of Stainmore Railway Company for just £10.