Do you have a little train fan? The Bellarine Railway located on the beautiful Bellarine Peninsula, is a steam tourist railway that operates between Queenscliff and Drysdale. It’s a fantastic day out for families, offering a mix of scenic views, heritage charm, and unique entertainment options.

There are also special services and entertainment during school holidays, some public holidays and events such as Day Out with Thomas and The Polar Express.

 

The Swan Bay Express: Bellarine Railway Queenscliff

From the moment you board The Swan Bay Express, you’re transported straight back to the golden age of rail travel. Begin your journey by checking in at the Booking Office, where you’ll receive a stamped ‘Edmonson’ Ticket—a charming souvenir of your trip.

Step onto the platform to find beautifully restored passenger carriages waiting for you. When the whistle blows, the train departs in a cloud of steam, taking you on a scenic adventure around the stunning wetlands of Swan Bay.

At the historic Lakers Siding Station, the train will pause, and the doors will swing open. Here, you can explore the Station and Signallers Office while the steam locomotive is prepared for its return journey to Queenscliff.

Family-Friendly Swan Bay Express

Make sure to ask the Booking Officers for a Lineside Guide or a Spotto Activity Sheet to keep the kids engaged. Furry friends are welcome aboard too! However, space on The Swan Bay Express is limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.

The entire experience lasts 45 minutes, making it an excellent choice for families looking to combine nostalgia with nature.

As the train pulls out of Queenscliff station, the scenery is breathtaking. The shimmering blue waters of Port Phillip Bay stretch as far as the eye can see, providing a stunning backdrop for your journey.

 A Ride Through History

Volunteers work tirelessly to maintain this heritage railway, which is the oldest Victorian branch line still in operation. The steam trains offer a variety of seating options, from luxurious first-class private cabins to charming ‘cattle-class’ benches.

Day Out With Thomas

One of the standout programs at the Bellarine Railway is the Day Out With Thomas, a magical event for young fans of Thomas the Tank Engine.

Held several times a year, this experience includes unlimited rides with Thomas in the Troublesome Trucks, meeting Sir Topham Hatt, blowing Henry’s whistle, and enjoying a 45-minute return train ride with a Friend of Thomas.

Kids can also participate in activities like a Spot the Engine game, a colouring competition, and storytelling sessions.

I recommend booking the earliesr trains at 9:30am or 10:30am and arriving around 30-45 minutes beforehand so that you can enjoy the activities before they get really busy. Activities with limited capacity, such as the face painting and jumping castle, are too full for us by the time we return from our 10:30am train trip.

Arriving early also means you can find parking easily.

At 7 and 5 years old Lady AB and Baby 2.0 are probably at the end of their journey with Thomas the Tank Engine. They still have a lot of fun on the day but there’s no longer the dazzled awe at seeing Thomas brought to life. So make sure you experience this special event while your children are still young!

The Polar Express

Another crowd-favourite is The Polar Express Train Ride, a holiday-themed adventure inspired by the classic Christmas book.

Passengers receive a souvenir Golden Ticket and embark on an immersive journey featuring iconic characters. Highlights include the lively ‘Hot Chocolate’ dance, a visit from Santa, and carolling onboard.

Refreshments are served during the trip, and every passenger receives a special memento from Santa himself, making this event a cherished holiday tradition.

Read Amy’s review of The Polar Express experience.

Other Special Events

The Bellarine Railway also hosts a range of seasonal and themed events to delight visitors of all ages. From the Easter Bunny Specials to Benito’s Pirate Adventures, there’s always something exciting happening during the Easter, July, and September school holidays.

These events are immensely popular and often sell out, so bookings are highly recommended.

 

Tips for Taking The Swan Bay Express

• Free parking is offered onsite, and arriving early also means you can find parking easily;
• The Swan Bay Express round trip takes about 45 minutes;
• You are allowed to pack your own snacks and taken them on board, but remember to take any rubbish with you when leaving the carriage;
• If your little ones are fans of Thomas the Tank Engine, don’t miss the special events that make the Bellarine Railway even more magical;
• For the Day Out with Thomas book the earlier trains at 9:30am or 10:30am and arrive around 30-45 minutes before so that you can enjoy the activities before they get really busy;
• The events are very popular and always sell out, so bookings are recommended;
• While some of the special events are more suited to younger kids, the Swan Bay Express is suitable for all ages;
• Family entertainment is available during the Easter, July and September school holidays, such as the Easter Bunny and Benito’s Pirate Specials.

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