After a successful trip in August, Weardale Railway’s popular Gin and Cheese Train is to run again on Saturday 25 October.

The heritage railway is working in partnership with Teesdale Cheesemakers and WL Distillery to host the three-hour round trip from Bishop Auckland West to Stanhope.

Passengers will be treated to spectacular views of the Durham Dales while they sample the very best in local food and drink.

On board the train, guests will be offered a welcome drink. After this, they will have the opportunity to enjoy four artisan gins, which include two handcrafted spirits from WL Distillery, which is based in Durham.

The gin tasting will be paired with a curated tasting of five cheeses. Varieties of cheese on offer include award-winning cheeses from Teesdale Cheesemakers, which they make on their family farm located near Barnard Castle.

The Weardale Railway is part of The Auckland Project, which is a regeneration charity aiming to transform Bishop Auckland into a leading visitor destination by improving and promoting the area’s unique collection of heritage attractions, galleries, and gardens.

The Auckland Project saved the Weardale Railway from administration by buying it in March 2020.

Since then, operational heritage services and events on the Railway have been revived. The Weardale Railway is a heritage line supported by volunteers, with a calendar of events including themed journeys, a stargazing train, and afternoon teas.

“We were overwhelmed by the demand for our first Gin and Cheese Train of 2025, so we’ve added a second date to give more people the chance to savour award-winning local flavours while taking in the stunning scenery of the Durham Dales. It’s the perfect way to slow down, enjoy the view, and celebrate the very best of the North East.”

Claire Gibbons, General Manager of Weardale Railway