The Monkey Tree

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Home arrow Out and About arrow Ridgeway park steam train Chingford.
Ridgeway park steam train Chingford. Print E-mail

The Ridgeway Park in Chingford is home to a wonderful steam railway, which has brought enjoyment to thousands of children over the years.

Laughter and squeals of delight can be heard over the steam engines as the passengers are whisked away on a fun journey. Prior to riding the train you buy your ticket from the ticket office and wait on the platform for the next arrival, at 30pence a ticket it’s the cheapest train ride for miles!
The track and trains are managed and owned by The Chingford & District model-engineering club. First formed in 1945 by a small group of enthusiasts the club now has 89 members from apprentice’s aged 12 to seniors (age not disclosed!). The railway is funded by its ticket sales and passionately cared for maintained and developed by its members. In all weathers they are out tending track, signals and engines to ensure a great ride for its passengers.

Their most prestigious passenger was Walter Disney (yes, the man himself from over the pond) who visited the club in 1952 whilst developing his own ideas for a steam railway in his garden. The club are very proud of the black and white photograph hanging in their refuelling station, well the tearoom, the hub of operations.

Each engine is named with a ‘fly’ theme. Firefly, Dragonfly, Mayfly, Greenfly and others and they are referred to as such by those that know them, as if they were part of the family.
There are two tracks to ride, one raised and one ground level, which has sit in carriages. One or other runs every Sunday 2pm-5pm from April to Sept. All ages can ride.

So for a fun afternoon riding our local steam railway visit Ridgeway Park off The Ridgeway, Chingford. Budding young steam enthusiasts are always welcome to join the club with parental attendance. For more information enquire when you visit. Enjoy the ride.