12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Daily Record
Scottish hidden railway garden with Thomas the Tank Engine models is perfect family day out
Kids and train lovers will enjoy this magical railway hidden in the woods just an hour from Glasgow
Tucked away in the woodlands near Gask in Perthshire, just over an hour's drive from Glasgow, lies a hidden gem for young train enthusiasts and nostalgic adults alike, the Perthshire Garden Railway.
Open from Friday to Sunday, this outdoor attraction brings model trains to life in a beautifully landscaped setting filled with flowers, bridges and mini rivers.
Since opening just over a year ago, it's become a firm family favourite. The standout feature is the Thomas the Tank Engine section, where children can meet Thomas, Percy, James, Toby and Emily, Glasgow Live reports.
'Their eyes move like they do in the cartoons, so it really looks like they're saying hi as they zoom by,' said one visitor, who brought along two mesmerised toddlers.
The railway is located just off the A9 near Auchterarder, with signs leading down a narrow rural path to a small parking area. Once inside, a welcoming ticket hut also serves up teas, freshly brewed coffee and cakes.
After exploring, visitors can relax with refreshments in the cosy seating area or take their treats outside and enjoy the views of the surrounding garden.
The attraction is filled with themed sections, including a Wild West scene featuring the Santa Fe Express and Union Pacific F7, and a nostalgic Trumpton village for older visitors to recognise from 60s television.
With so much to see, families can easily spend hours wandering the miniature world, if they can tear little ones away from Thomas and friends.
The garden currently enjoys a flawless five-star rating on TripAdvisor, with glowing praise from visitors. One reviewer wrote: 'Such a beautiful spot to relax.
"My son loves it and it's safe for kids to run around. The café and amenities are basic but the staff and owner are so friendly. I heard it hasn't been open for too long so hopefully it can gain more visitors. Also fantastic for ASD kids like mine.'
Another added: 'Beautiful, quiet little wonderland in the woods. This is a beautiful, amazingly decorated and designed area with little trains of all types going around various sized tracks.
"A wonderful mini circular stroll for the elderly, the young and the in between! I never had a chance to visit the café but next time I certainly will.'
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Tickets are reasonably priced at £9 for adults and over-13s, £7.50 for children aged 4 to 12, and free for under-threes. Cash is preferred.
Dogs are welcome but must be kept on leads, especially around the miniature towns and locomotives.
The 2025 season runs until mid-October, offering plenty of time to plan a visit, just be sure not to arrive outside its opening days.
For children who love trains and adults who enjoy a whimsical escape, the Perthshire Garden Railway is a magical day out.
