The railway was constructed specifically to transport coal from the Foxfield Colliery to the main North Staffordshire Railway line.
The line retains the original 1-in-19 gradient, which necessitated the use of powerful locomotives to handle the steep ascent.
It is one of the oldest heritage railways in the UK, having preserved its original industrial character since operations transitioned from coal transport to passenger leisure.
The engine shed at Foxfield is a notable example of late 19th-century railway architecture, preserved in its working state.
The railway hosts regular 'gala' weekends that feature guest locomotives from other heritage lines across the UK.
The Foxfield Steam Railway is a preserved industrial heritage line operating on a former colliery track originally opened in 1893 to serve the Foxfield Colliery. The railway features one of the steepest gradients for a standard-gauge line in the United Kingdom, specifically the 1-in-19 incline. Visitors travel in vintage carriages pulled by restored steam locomotives through the rural Staffordshire countryside. The site functions as a working museum where volunteers maintain and operate Victorian and Edwardian-era rolling stock. The journey connects Dilhorne Park to Blythe Bridge, traversing a mix of woodland and agricultural landscapes. It remains one of the few places in Britain where visitors can experience authentic heavy industrial rail operations. The railway maintains its own workshops where extensive restoration of steam engines takes place throughout the year.
The platform end at the Foxfield station looking back toward the approaching locomotive on the steep gradient.
Wear sturdy, closed-toe footwear suitable for walking on gravel tracks and around industrial machinery.
Bring a camera with a good zoom, as the best views of the locomotives are from trackside vantage points.
Check the website calendar specifically for 'Steam Gala' dates, as these feature the widest variety of running engines.
Do not attempt to walk along the tracks outside of designated public areas, as the railway is a working industrial site with active movement.
Operates primarily on weekends and bank holidays from spring through autumn, with special event days in December; closed on most weekdays.
Stay behind all yellow safety lines and white fences; do not approach locomotives or tracks unless accompanied by staff.
