The Great Whipsnade Railway, also known as the Jumbo Express, is a captivating narrow-gauge heritage railway located within the renowned ZSL Whipsnade Zoo in Bedfordshire, England. This delightful train offers visitors a unique and immersive experience, allowing them to explore the zoo’s diverse habitats and encounter its fascinating inhabitants from the comfort of a historic locomotive.
The Whipsnade Zoo Train Route: A Scenic Adventure
The Whipsnade Zoo train follows a scenic route that takes passengers on a journey through the heart of the zoo. Departing from the Whipsnade Central station, the train winds its way through the zoo’s lush landscapes, offering breathtaking views and close encounters with a variety of animal species.
As the train travels clockwise around the loop, passengers can catch glimpses of the children’s play area, the children’s farm, and the emu paddock. They may even spot a steam or diesel locomotive in the train yard or the diesels Hector and Victor in a nearby siding.
The route then takes the train past the elephant and Asian rhino paddocks, before crossing over a road and entering the Passage Through Asia area. Here, visitors can marvel at the Bactrian Camels, Yak, and Pere David Deer, as the train travels through the enclosures without any barriers separating the animals and the passengers.
The journey continues through the deer park and the Przewalski horses’ paddock, before the train climbs uphill back to the station, crossing Central Avenue just before reaching the platform.
The Whipsnade Zoo Train Locomotives: A Blend of Steam and Diesel Power
The Great Whipsnade Railway operates a fleet of four steam locomotives and five diesel locomotives, all of which are used to haul the passenger trains. The steam locomotives, named “Excelsior” and “Superior,” are regularly used to provide the classic steam train experience.
The diesel locomotives, including Hector, Victor, and two unnamed models, also play a crucial role in the railway’s operations. Interestingly, one of the diesel locomotives has been sold to the Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway, adding to the railway’s legacy.
Riding the Whipsnade Zoo Train: Costs and Timings
Visitors to the Whipsnade Zoo can enjoy the Whipsnade Zoo train at an affordable cost. The standard ticket prices are £4.50 for adults, £2.00 for children aged 3-15, and free for children under 3 and essential carers/teachers.
The railway is open daily from March 29th to September 29th, 2024, with weekend-only operations from October 5th to November 3rd, 2024. The railway will then be closed until February 2025, so visitors are encouraged to plan their visits accordingly.
The Whipsnade Zoo Train Footplate Experience: A Unique Opportunity
In addition to the standard train ride, Whipsnade Zoo offers a unique Footplate Experience, which allows visitors to learn about the steam engines and ride on the footplate. This exclusive experience costs £30 per person and includes a briefing with the driver or fireman, a round trip on the footplate, and the opportunity for up to four family and friends to ride the train for free.
To participate in the Footplate Experience, visitors must be 18 years or older and arrive 20 minutes before the scheduled experience time.
The Whipsnade Zoo train is a true gem for zoo enthusiasts and railway lovers alike. With its scenic route, historic locomotives, and unique experiences, the Jumbo Express offers a delightful and unforgettable way to explore the wonders of Whipsnade Zoo.
References
- Great Whipsnade Railway – Wikipedia
- Whipsnade Zoo, Dunstable – TripAdvisor
- Whipsnade Zoo Tickets 2FOR1 Offers | National Rail – Days Out Guide
- The Great Whipsnade Railway – Whipsnade Zoo
- Footplate Experience | Whipsnade Zoo