Caledonian

Railway

All Aboard the heritage railway for unique family days out in the heart of Angus

Crowd of people gathered at Caledonian Railway Brechin Station with a Thomas the Tank Engine train in the foreground and a wooden shelter with decorative supports overhead.
Crowd of people gathered at Caledonian Railway Brechin Station with a Thomas the Tank Engine train in the foreground and a wooden shelter with decorative supports overhead.

Upcoming Events

A small pine shrub in a flower bed with blooming pansy flowers, train tracks, and Caledonian Railway - Brechin Station Platform with green supports and a vintage train in the background.

More Than Just a Train Ride

Step into the charm of a traditional railway and experience a day out like no other. From heritage steam and diesel journeys to welcoming volunteers and family-friendly events, the Caledonian Railway brings history, community, and unforgettable moments together in the heart of Angus.

Explore the Railway

Discover what’s coming up at the railway, from seasonal favourites to special experiences for the whole family.

Learn more about the railway’s history, heritage locomotives, and the story behind this much-loved line.

Relax and refuel with hot drinks, snacks, and treats at our welcoming station café.

Find everything you need to plan your day, including how to get here, opening times, and what to expect.

View of Caledonian Railway, Brechin Station platform with green support columns and an arched roof structure. A sign reads 'The Whistle Stop' for the cafe. A string of light bulbs hangs above the platform. The tracks are visible on the right side.

Why not stop in for a re-fuel

At the Whistle Stop Cafe

No visit is complete without a stop at the Whistlestop Café. Enjoy homemade soups, toasties, and freshly baked treats, all served alongside great coffee from Maison Dieu.

Whether you’re warming up after a journey or taking a moment to relax, it’s the perfect spot to sit back and savour the experience.

POWERED BY PEOPLE

For over 40 years, Caledonian Railway has been run entirely by dedicated volunteers who bring it to life day in, day out. Their passion, knowledge, and friendly faces are what make every visit so special, from the platform to the carriages and everywhere in between.

Behind the scenes and on the front line, there are so many ways to get involved. Whether you're keen to learn new skills, meet like-minded people, or simply be part of something truly unique in the Angus community, there’s a place for you here.

Four volunteers standing together, smiling. The woman in the middle is holding a framed certificate. The girl on the right is holding a purple box celebrating their volunteering achievement.

1848

The year the railway opened it’s tracks for the first time.

4

The number of seasons, it’s said, you can experience in the 4 mile journey from Brechin to Dun.

1979

The year Caledonian Railway officially re-opened as a volunteer-run visitor attraction.

Saved by Passion, Sustained by the Community

When the railway faced closure, a dedicated group of enthusiasts came together to protect it from being lost forever. What began as a mission to preserve a piece of Angus’ history has grown into one of the area’s most loved visitor attractions.

Today, that same passion lives on through the volunteers who keep the railway running. Maintaining the line, restoring locomotives, and creating unforgettable experiences for every visitor who steps aboard.

Queen’s Award for Voluntary Service


Awarded in 2019, recognising the incredible dedication of our volunteers.

View of Caledonian Railway station with multiple train tracks and a station platform, surrounded by the town of Brechin, Angus with buildings and church steeples in the background.

Thousands of Visitors Each Year


Welcoming families, enthusiasts, and visitors from across Angus and beyond.

Got any quick questions before you hop on board?

Yes, our stations and trains are wheelchair accessible. Ramps are available, and our team are always happy to help — just speak to a member of staff on arrival.

We’re open on selected dates throughout the year, including weekends in the summer. Visit our What’s On page for full details.

Tickets can be purchased in advance via our What’s On page, or on the day at our ticket office (subject to availability).

Yes, we have free off-street parking at both Brechin and Bridge of Dun stations, including disabled parking at Brechin.

View of Caledonian Railway, Brechin train station through an arched doorway, with a vintage train on the tracks and a platform with decorative columns and string lights.

Start your Journey at Caledonian Railway

From unforgettable events to heritage train rides and welcoming volunteers, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Plan your visit and experience it for yourself.