Branchliners to Botany & Moss Vale
Step aboard a once-in-a-lifetime railway journey where history, scenery, and exclusive access collide! Branchliners to Botany and Moss Vale is a rare opportunity to travel by heritage diesel on a route normally reserved for rumbling freight – the Port Botany Line.
This unique adventure departs from Sydney Central Station, winding through seldom-seen industrial corridors and onto the Southern Highlands in vintage style, hauled by our classic ex-government Branchliner diesel locomotives.
Gin Distillery Off-Train Experience – Alight at Bowral for an exclusive visit to the Millsheds local gin distillery & bar, including a welcome drink and discounts on bottles to take home, see below for pricing.
On arrival at Moss Vale you will have ample time to explore the town and get a bite to eat before we had back to Central Station, on the way back, enjoy a ride along the East Hills Line, with drop-off points along the route for those looking for a quick and easy return closer to home, or continue all the way back to Central Station.
This is a limited and unprecedented journey through rail corridors usually off-limits to passengers. Whether you’re a railway enthusiast, a lover of hidden gems, or just after a unique day out – Branchliners to Botany and Moss Vale is your ticket to something truly special.
Fares:
Please Note: All fares are for same-day return travel.
Private Compartment — $550 per group
Enjoy the benefits of an entire compartment to yourselves — great for families and social groups!
One booking is good for up to a maximum of eight (8) people.
Four Seat Booth — $360 per group
Four seat booth with a table in a heritage saloon carriage.
Group of 4 - Air Conditoned Lounge* — $360 per group
Group of 4 seating in an aircontioned lounge carriage.
Single Tickets — $110 Per Person
Single Ticket at a shared table of 2 or 4
Single Tickets — $140 Per Person
Travel for a single person in a 'N' type classic non air-conditioned heritage saloon carriage, sharing a booth with up to 3 other passengers, includes a tour of the Gin Distillery at Bowal, with drink on arrival and taste testing.
First Class High Tea ** - $160 per person
Travel in our Dining car including a Morning High Tea Serving on the way to Moss Vale. Includes Tea and Coffee all day.
** High Tea does not cater for any dietary requirements.
*This car does not include picnic tables.
Full Carriage Hire — Call for Quote
NOTE: Below times are subject to change and are indicative only. You will recieve an email from us with the FINAL times as soon as they are available.
Timetable: Please refer to our website for the most up to date times and departure locations.
Link: https://www.picnictrain.com.au/branchliners
Buffet Car:
Our buffet car will be available for light snacks and drinks. We encourage passengers to bring their own picnic hampers.
BYO alcohol is allowed and can also be purchased from the Buffet Car.
The Picnic Train is now a licensed venue. We have obligations under our Plan of Management to ensure the safety of passengers. Whilst the Plan of Management and the liquor license act are available should anyone wish to review, some important conditions are
* Alcohol will not be sold to persons under 18 and our team is trained to request proof of age.
* There are maximum limits in place, our team is trained to deny serving alcohol where appropriate.
* No Alcohol is to be taken or consumed off the train.
BYO alcohol is allowed, however, large eskys will not be permitted
Babies and Toddlers:
Babies in arms and small toddlers may be brought along at no additional cost. Babies and toddlers must be nursed and not occupy a booked seat.
Toilets:
Toilets are available in all carriages.
Mobile Phones:
There are limited charging points on the heritage equipment. It is recommended that you bring an external battery charger for your mobile devices.
Motive Power:
Steam locomotive R766 is planned for this tour in both directions.
Date
Saturday 14 June 2025 10:00 AM - 8:30 PM (UTC+10)
Location
Sydney
Sydney NSW
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