Experience the Golden Age of Rail as we transport you back in time onboard The Vintage Train to Castlemaine.

Departing Southern Cross Station at 9:51am, the train will steam north from the heart of Melbourne. Sit back in your comfortable compartment and enjoy the scenery as our classic steam locomotive powers through the countryside. Nearly 50 miles of climbing is to be expected from Melbourne to the peak near Woodend, 1902ft above sea level. Spectacular views can be had as we steam through Sunbury, crossing Jacksons Creek and up towards the Macedon Ranges. Pass over the 1862 built Malmsbury and Taradale Viaducts and through Elphinstone Tunnel before arriving at Castlemaine at 12:18pm.

Castlemaine - A charming town with a rich history and a vibrant culture, Castlemaine was once a booming gold mining town, and you can still see the traces of its glorious past in its impressive public buildings, monuments, and museums. You can also explore the beautiful natural surroundings of the town, with scenic creeks, forests, and parks. Castlemaine is also known for its artistic and creative community, with many galleries, studios, festivals, and markets to discover. Whether you are interested in history, nature, or art, Castlemaine has something for everyone.

While our volunteers service the locomotive, explore Castlemaine and find lunch in one of the many local pubs, cafes and restaurants. It is encouraged to call and book ahead for lunch.

Reboard the train at 3:40pm for a 3:50pm departure from Castlemaine. The engine will work hard to climb towards Elphinstone Tunnel before picking up speed and topping over the Great Divide against the setting sun. Arrive back at Southern Cross at 6:06pm, after a memorable day out onboard The Vintage Train!

RESERVED SEATING
Choose to travel in Excursion Class to experience 'old-school' air-con with the windows open in our heritage wooden carriages dating back to 1906. Otherwise, upgrade to our air conditioned First Class carriage to sit back in a comfortable air conditioned & heated 1940s-vintage compartment.

THE VINTAGE TRAIN
Ride with us onboard 'The Vintage Train’, fully restored by Steamrail as an important part of Victoria’s rail heritage.  Our steam locomotives are coal or oil fired and date from 1889 to 1952, while the carriages range from as early as 1906.  The train features beautiful timber work & pressed-tin ceilings, walk-through corridors, comfortable compartment style seating, a licensed bar and kiosk, and toilets with washrooms.  All rail seating is reserved.

ON-TRAIN SERVICES
Our on-train facilities include a kiosk stocking a wide range of light refreshments, snacks and hot & cold drinks. A licensed bar will also be operating, serving a range of beers, wines and spirits. A range of souvenirs will also be able for purchase on board.

TIMETABLE
<< SUBJECT TO CHANGE >>  Please check the final times as shown on your seating allocation which will be emailed 2 days prior to the tour operating.
9:51am dep. SOUTHERN CROSS
12:18pm arr. CASTLEMAINE

3:50pm dep. CASTLEMAINE
6:06pm arr. SOUTHERN CROSS

Please ensure you are on the platform no later than 15 minutes prior to the scheduled departure time.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS
TryBooking Terms and Conditions.
Steamrail's Terms and Conditions are located on the Steamrail Website.

LOCATION
Southern Cross Station, Melbourne VIC.

Contact Details

Contact Event Organiser