A Brand-New Electric Steam Locomotive is Coming to Audley End Enchanted Railway
We’ve been working on something very exciting behind the scenes at Audley End Enchanted Railway, and we’re finally ready to share it with you.
In 2026, a brand-new fully electric steam-outline locomotive will be joining our fleet, marking an exciting new chapter for one of the most loved family attractions in Essex.
Blending heritage design with modern electric technology, this first-of-its-kind locomotive represents the future of the miniature railway experience in the UK right here in the heart of the Enchanted Forest at Audley End.
A 60-Year Legacy of Miniature Train Rides in Essex
Our story began in 1964, when Lord Braybrooke established a miniature railway within the grounds of Audley End Estate. What started as a passion project, offering families the chance to ride a train through woodland in search of teddy bears hidden in the trees, developed into a much-loved tradition.
For more than six decades, visitors have enjoyed a 1½-mile journey along a custom-built 10¼-inch gauge track that winds through Fulfen Forest, a private woodland that provides the magical backdrop to every event.
Today, Audley End Enchanted Railway is known as one of the most unique things to do in Essex with children, combining storytelling, seasonal events, and nature-filled adventure with a charming miniature train ride.
A First-of-Its-Kind Electric Steam Locomotive in the UK
Since celebrating our 60th anniversary in 2024, we reflected not only on our heritage but also on our future.
To mark the 60th anniversary, we introduced Electra, our pioneering electric locomotive, the first of her kind in the UK. Designed and built by specialist engineers at The Steam Workshop in the north of England, Electra brought cleaner, quieter and more reliable journeys to our woodland railway.
Now, in 2026, we are taking innovation one step further.
Our newest locomotive is a fully electric steam-outline locomotive, designed to look and sound like a traditional scale steam engine while running entirely on electricity. It even produces steam, preserving the nostalgic sights and sounds that generations of families associate with their visits to Audley End.
This makes it one of the most innovative developments in the UK’s miniature steam railway sector, combining sustainability with heritage charm.
A More Sustainable Future for Our Railway
As a woodland-based attraction, sustainability matters deeply to us.
The introduction of electric locomotives allows us to:
- Reduce emissions
- Lower environmental impact
- Improve reliability during busy seasonal events
- Protect the surrounding forest environment
While coal-fired steam trains remain an important part of our story, investing in electric technology ensures we can continue offering magical train rides in Essex for decades to come.
Our Fleet of Miniature Trains
Audley End Enchanted Railway now operates a mixed fleet of steam, diesel, and electric locomotives, each used throughout the year depending on events, capacity, and operating conditions.
Our current fleet includes:
- Electra – Our fully electric locomotive leading the way in sustainable railway travel.
- Our Brand-New Electric Steam-Outline Train – Traditional in appearance, innovative in technology.
- Henrietta Jane – A long-standing diesel locomotive loved by returning visitors.
- Robin – Another trusted diesel engine supporting our busiest event days.
While we never guarantee which engine will run on a particular day, every journey offers the same enchanting woodland experience that makes us one of the most popular family days out in Essex.
For steam enthusiasts, rest assured, traditional steam locomotives will continue to make special appearances at selected events throughout the year.
Watch the New Train Take Shape
You can watch our behind-the-scenes video by clicking here to:
- Learn more about the history of Audley End Enchanted Railway
- Hear from our owner about the future of the Railway
- Catch a sneak peek of the new electric steam locomotive in production
And there’s one more thing…
Our new train doesn’t yet have a name! We’d love your help choosing one. Head over to our Instagram and share your suggestions in the comments.
The Future of Train Rides at Audley End
For over 60 years, families have known and loved us as Audley End Miniature Railway, and for many long-time visitors, we’ll always be remembered as Audley End Steam Railway.
As we look to the future, we remain committed to delivering magical woodland adventures while embracing innovation and sustainability here at Audley End Enchanted Railway.
The whistle will still blow.
The forest will still welcome you.
All aboard!
