South Downs Light Railway: A miniature railway with a big place in Pulborough’s heart

The South Downs Light Railway (SDLR) is one of Pulborough’s most charming and quietly remarkable attractions — a volunteer‑run, coal‑fired miniature railway set within the grounds of Pulborough Garden Centre. Since opening in 2000, it has become a beloved part of village life, drawing families, enthusiasts, and visitors from across West Sussex.

A Brief History

The SDLR was established as the successor to earlier miniature railways on the same site, including the Cheals Garden Railway and Riverview Miniature Railway, which operated on a smaller 7¼‑inch gauge. In 2000, the line was rebuilt and regauged to 10¼ inches, creating the nearly one‑mile route that operates today.

Over the past two decades, the railway has steadily expanded its facilities:

• A new station and ticket office
• A fully equipped engine shed and workshop
• A carriage shed with recent extensions
• A tunnel with decorative portals added in 2017
• A restored turntable, water tower, and coal bunker

By 2025, the SDLR celebrated its 25th anniversary, marking the milestone with a commemorative history book and a gala featuring home‑fleet locomotives and visiting engines.

The Trains: Steam, Diesel, and Heritage Icons

The SDLR’s locomotive fleet is one of its greatest attractions. It includes:

• Exmoor Steam Railway locomotives
• Pulborough — 0‑4‑2 steam locomotive (built 2004)
• Peggy — 0‑4‑2 steam locomotive (built 2007)
• Arun — 0‑4‑2 diesel hydraulic (built 2016)

Alongside these purpose‑built engines, the railway hosts an impressive collection of scale-outline miniature locomotives, often seen during gala days:

• LNER Flying Scotsman
• LMS Coronation
• LMS Mogul
• Bagnall Alice
• Hunslet Agapanthus

Passenger trains run from March to September and typically consist of open‑top and covered coaches, with brake vans added depending on weather and event type.

Over the weekend of 26^th and 27^th September 2026, the SDLR is hosting their end of season gala featuring an impressive collection of locomotives:

Christmas is coming!

December sees the wonderful season of Christmas arrive at South Downs Light Railway. This year, they are offering a Christmas Experience to remember. See the Christmas Experience page on the SDLR website for more information and how to book. Get in quick, tickets will sell out fast!

Who’s Involved: A Community of Volunteers

The SDLR is entirely volunteer‑run, relying on a diverse and dedicated team aged from around 12 to nearly 80. Volunteers include schoolchildren, engineers, IT professionals, armed forces personnel, council workers, and retirees — all united by a love of railways and community service.

Many volunteers bring decades of heritage railway experience, including from the Bluebell Railway and other well‑known lines. Their skills keep the locomotives running, maintain the infrastructure, welcome visitors, and ensure safe, enjoyable journeys.

The railway is overseen by the South Downs Light Railway Society Ltd., which manages operations, maintenance, events, and long‑term development.

What the Railway Contributes to Pulborough

The SDLR is more than a visitor attraction — it’s a community asset that enriches Pulborough in several ways:

• Tourism & Local Economy: It draws thousands of visitors each year, supporting the garden centre and nearby businesses.
• Education & Skills: Volunteers learn engineering, operations, customer service, and heritage conservation.
• Family-Friendly Leisure: The railway offers affordable, nostalgic days out for families, especially during summer and Christmas events.
• Community Identity: As part of the South Downs National Park landscape, the railway helps showcase Pulborough’s heritage, creativity, and volunteer spirit.
• Events & Celebrations: Gala weekends, multi‑train days, and seasonal experiences bring residents together and create shared memories.

Call for Volunteers: Your Railway Needs You

The SDLR thrives because of its volunteers — and new volunteers are always welcome.

Whether you’re interested in:

• Driving or firing steam locomotives
• Engineering and maintenance
• Station duties and customer service
• Event support
• Photography, marketing, or admin

…there’s a role for you, whatever your age or experience.

Volunteering offers:

• Training and mentorship
• A friendly, supportive community
• Hands-on heritage railway experience
• The chance to contribute to one of Pulborough’s most cherished attractions

If you’d like to get involved, visit the Membership section on the SDLR website for contact details and next steps.

Powered by passion

The South Downs Light Railway is a testament to Pulborough’s community spirit — a miniature railway powered not just by steam, but by passion, dedication, and local pride. As it continues to grow and evolve, it remains one of the village’s most joyful and enduring landmarks.