Welcome to the Avon Valley Railway

The Avon Valley Railway is more than just a train ride, offering a whole new experience for some or a nostalgic memory for others. It's a real treat for the whole family! SCENIC BOAT TRIPS We are pleased to report that the popular Scenic Boat Trips are once again operating. During July they will be offering 40 minute trips along part of the River Avon every Wednesday and Sunday, as well as Tuesday 28th and Thursday 30th. Due to the popularity of the boat trips, especially with coach parties, it is advisable to give the Booking Office a call to check on availability as seats on each trip are limited to sixty. NEW FOR 2009 - TRAINS RUNNING EVERY WEDNESDAY IN JULY For 2009 we have introduced a new Wednesday steam service in July, running every hour and a quarter from 11am to 4pm. LOCAL TRAFFIC INFORMATION There are currently roadworks on the main A431 on the approach to Bitton Station. Three way temporary traffic lights on the Bristol side of the approach (opposite the BP filling station) are causing delays of up to ten minutes at peak times. On the Bath side the delays are less but care should be taken on the roundabout with the A4175 to Oldland, especially for coaches due to the restricted turning circle. SUNDAY 19TH JULY - TEDDY BEARS' PICNIC Join us on this special day which also marks the launch of South Gloucestershire Council's Festival of Archaeology. Join 'Coast' presenter Mark Horton to officially open the two weeks of special events in the area. The highlight of the day will be the appearance of street theatre company Desperate Men performing 'Darwin and the Dodo'. Don't miss this rare opportunity to see them performing in the South West. Children are invited to bring a dinosaur with them (not a real one please!) or a teddy bear which will allow them to travel free of charge on the train and the boat. The children will love a DAY OUT WITH THOMAS in May and October, whilst FATHER CHRISTMAS visits us during December. And why not treat them to a BIRTHDAY PARTY on the train, available on most days when trains are running. You can learn how to DRIVE A STEAM ENGINE or join us for our REAL ALE FESTIVAL in June each year. There's also a chance to admire a wide selection of VINTAGE BUSES at our August Bus Rally. Relax and enjoy either a TWO COURSE or a THREE COURSE MEAL on board one of our Luncheon Dining Trains, or test your investigativells on one of our popular MURDER MYSTERY events. The AVR now offers a six mile return train ride along the former Mangotsfield to Bath Green Park branch of the old Midland Railway, and the chance to see the River Avon valley from an aspect that cars cannot reach. Based at Bitton Station, midway between Bristol and Bath, this former Midland Railway station has been painstakingly restored from a derelict state to provide visitors with refreshment and toilet facilities, a railway shop, a pleasant garden, and outdoor seating.

latest news jun 29th  track panels donations appeal jun 23rd  axa visit june 2009 jun 19th  polish day 2009

Our 'Avon Riverside' platform, in the heart of the Avon Valley, offers passengers the opportunity to enjoy the many attractions in the area - boat trips, riverside pubs, picnic area, and walks in the beautiful surrounding countryside. All of this information is contained in our 2007 colour brochure. Why not email or call us to obtain a copy - details of how to do this are provided on the 'contact us' page. In the long term we hope to be able to extend the line to the outskirts of Bath, providing a scenic train ride not just into, but through, the Avon Valley.

If you have any queries regarding the Avon Valley Railway's services or events, please email us. If you`re already a member, or you're wondering what goes on 'behind the scenes' at the AVR, why not check out our special 'News' button on the left hand toolbar. We appreciate your comments and feedback, so if you have anything to tell us about this website, please let us know. Most of all, why not come and visit us in person - you will find a warm welcome and a great day out waiting for you!

last updated: david cole, Fri 3rd Jul 2009