From Steam Trains to Christmas Magic: The Story of Audley End Enchanted Railway
What began as one man’s passion for steam trains has become one of Essex’s much-loved family attractions.
Since opening in 1964, Audley End Enchanted Railway has welcomed generations of visitors to its woodland setting near Saffron Walden. Along the way, it has evolved from a traditional miniature railway into a world of imaginative adventures, seasonal celebrations and almost 40 years of Christmas magic. But where did it all begin?
A Railway Born from a Passion for Steam
The story began in 1964, when Lord Braybrooke opened a miniature railway within the grounds of Audley End Estate. A lifelong railway enthusiast, he wanted to share his passion for steam trains with visitors. The railway was officially opened with the help of legendary racing driver Sir Stirling Moss. In those early years, the experience was wonderfully simple. Families enjoyed picnics beneath the trees, while children peered into the woodland from their train carriages, searching for teddy bears hidden amongst the branches. It was the beginning of a railway that would become a familiar part of childhood for generations of local families.
From Miniature Railway to Enchanted Forest
In 2010, Lord Braybrooke’s daughter, Amanda Murray, took over the attraction, bringing new ideas and experiences to the historic railway. Over the following years, the woodland became home to Fairies and Elves, imaginative play areas and an expanding calendar of seasonal events. While the miniature railway remained central to the experience, visitors could now discover a whole world of adventure beyond the train journey. In February 2026, this evolution was reflected in a new name: Audley End Enchanted Railway, celebrating both its railway heritage and the magical experiences it offers today.
Almost 40 Years of Christmas Celebrations
Christmas has been part of the railway’s story for almost four decades. What began as a festive train journey has developed into an immersive Christmas experience, with new characters, activities and woodland scenes introduced over the years. Today, the Christmas Special takes families through the illuminated Enchanted Forest towards Father Christmas’ workshop, where Father Christmas and Mother Christmas greet children from their train carriage and present each child with a small gift. The adventure continues in Fulfen Forest, where visitors can explore twinkling Christmas lights, meet festive Fairies and Elves, make reindeer food and write letters to Father Christmas. Little Acorn Village, the Adventure Playground and a festive stage show offer even more opportunities for families to enjoy their visit. Although the experience has changed considerably over the decades, the miniature railway remains at the heart of the Christmas celebrations.
A New Chapter for Audley End Enchanted Railway
More than 60 years after its first train journey, Audley End Enchanted Railway continues to welcome families to the Essex countryside. From the original steam railway to today’s Enchanted Forest, the attraction has grown while preserving the character and heritage that make it special. For those who remember visiting as children, returning with their own families offers a chance to share a little of that history with the next generation. And with each new season comes another opportunity to create memories of their own.
Experience Christmas at Audley End Enchanted Railway in 2026
Our Christmas Special returns from 21 November to 24 December 2026, bringing festive characters, woodland lights and magical train journeys to the Audley End Estate. Whether you’re continuing a family tradition or discovering the railway for the first time, we look forward to welcoming you this Christmas.
Discover our Christmas Special and book your tickets.
Frequently Asked Questions
When did Audley End Enchanted Railway first open?
The railway opened in 1964, founded by Lord Braybrooke and officially opened with the help of Sir Stirling Moss.
How long has Audley End Enchanted Railway been hosting Christmas events?
Christmas celebrations have been taking place at the railway for almost 40 years, evolving from festive train journeys into the Christmas Special families enjoy today.
Was Audley End Enchanted Railway previously called Audley End Miniature Railway?
Yes. Previously known as Audley End Steam Railway and later Audley End Miniature Railway, the attraction adopted the name Audley End Enchanted Railway in February 2026.
Who runs Audley End Enchanted Railway?
The attraction is run by Amanda Murray, daughter of its founder, Lord Braybrooke, who took over in 2010.
