Photo of Pleasant Point Museum and Railway in Canterbury1 / 3
Trains & Railways

Pleasant Point Museum and Railway

πŸ“ Pleasant Point, Canterbury

β˜…4.7(278 Google reviews)

Pleasant Point Museum and Railway runs steam locomotives and a Model T Ford railcar between Pleasant Point Station and Keane's Crossing depot. A working turntable, vintage vehicles, model railway, and cinema display fill the depot.

βœ“ steam train ridesβœ“ volunteer-run railwayβœ“ Model T Ford railcarβœ“ working turntableβœ“ model railway layoutβœ“ restored depot
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β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…β˜…Featured review by Dave and Chantel Thomas

We visited the Pleasant Point Railway train ride and museum and it was absolutely magical for both myself and my kids. While it was a little on the expensive side, it was well worth the price, especially if you’re planning to go on multiple train rides. The old steam train was truly special and there was plenty to see and explore at the museum. I would highly recommend it to anyone with even a slight interest in trains, whether young or old. The volunteers were extremely friendly and welcoming, which really added to the experience. Keep an eye on their Facebook page and try to visit on a summer’s afternoon. We will definitely be back!

πŸ† Family Action Verdict

The steam locomotive and turntable spin are the highlights children talk about afterwards β€” volunteers greet every visitor personally and adjust the experience based on age and interest. Children with no prior interest in trains consistently leave engaged. Arriving near closing time is no barrier β€” the team will remains show you around.

ℹ️ What to Know Before You Go

πŸ’‘Check operating days online before visiting β€” the railway runs on specific days rather than daily
⏰Multiple train rides are available in a single visit β€” factor this into your timing if you want the full experience
🎟️The Model T Ford railcar is a separate ride from the steam train β€” ask volunteers about both options on arrival
πŸš—The depot is pram-accessible throughout, making it manageable with young children

πŸ’¬ What Families Are Saying

View all reviews β†’
4.7
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278 Google reviews

Steam train experience45%
Volunteer warmth and knowledge35%
Depot collection variety20%
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Dave and Chantel Thomas

2 months ago

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β€œWe visited the Pleasant Point Railway train ride and museum and it was absolutely magical for both myself and my kids. While it was a little on the expensive side, it was well worth the price, especially if you’re planning to go on multiple train rides. The old steam train was truly special and there was plenty to see and explore at the museum. I would highly recommend it to anyone with even a slight interest in trains, whether young or old. The volunteers were extremely friendly and welcoming, which really added to the experience. Keep an eye on their Facebook page and try to visit on a summer’s afternoon. We will definitely be back!”

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Jorg Soens

2 months ago

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β€œWe arrived near closing time but we were greeted by a smile. Ken asked if we wanted a ride on the model T train and we duly paid 20 dollars for a tour of the old station, a train ride to the depot where we were shown around and being explained the history of the trains in the towns, old steam locomotives, refurbished carriages and much more. Definitely a must do as this is all the work at display from volunteers!”

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Fiona and Glen Ward

4 months ago

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β€œOur family visited the railway today and had a great time. The tickets were cheap and the train goes quite frequently. They were celebrating 100 years for the cute railcar, which gave rides including a spin on the turntable. Inside were displays by of vintage cars, a cinema, model railway amongst many other displays. Well done to the railway volunteers, awesome efforts”

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Ray Adams

3 months ago

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β€œGreat place to spend an hour or two. Operating steam engine as well as exhibits featuring obsolete office equipment, radios and recording devices, auto parts, and more. Don't miss the interactive model railroad with lots of details. Check online for operating hours and details.”

Reviews from Google

Overview

Pleasant Point Museum and Railway operates steam train rides along the restored Fairlie branch line, with volunteers guiding passengers through branch-line history at each stop. The depot holds restored engines and carriages, a Model T Ford railcar, vintage motor vehicles, a detailed model railway layout, a cinema display, and period artefacts. The Model T railcar celebrated its centenary recently, including a turntable spin. Runs entirely on volunteer labour. Pram-accessible throughout.