Train

Train Times

Winter: the train runs from 10:30am – 3:15pm.
Summer: the train runs from 10:30am – 4:15pm.
For the next train ride schedule, check the clock on the platform or ask one of our visitor assistants.

Ready for a Wild Ride?
All aboard! One of the most-loved and longest standing features of Beale Wildlife Park is our diesel, Howard. Originally a steam locomotive, there has been a train on the narrow gauge railway since the 1980s. The 1.6km track runs from the station, Howard’s Halt, near the site entrance and loops around most of the zoo, offering excellent views of some animals, from the Shetland Ponies to the Lynx. It was designed by renowned railway experts, Alan Keef and David Laing. The station is named after one of the zoo’s original trustees and managers, Richard Howard, and the carriages honour his children. The carriages can accommodate 70 people, and include wheelchair access. The shiny blue and red locomotive runs seven days a week, every 30 minutes, and is operated by a committed team of six drivers.

“The train really is one of the iconic images of Beale Wildlife Park, and much loved by visitors of all ages. It’s fairly straightforward to drive but you do need to slow down to give visitors the best sight of our animals.” – Train Driver, Dave.

“My family has long taken a keen interest in steam trains, and I recently finished restoring a steam roller – a labour of love started by my father in the 1970s. We often have babies and young children taking their first ever train journey. We even had a newly married couple on board in their wedding outfits. Howard has seen it all!” – Train Driver, Bruce.