Details
Step into a world where Victorian imagination meets fairytale fantasy, brought to life across the unique setting of the Midland Railway – Butterley.
In partnership with the Ministry of Steampunk, this immersive weekend event invites visitors of all ages to experience a magical fusion of steam trains, storytelling, performance and creativity.
YOUR JOURNEY BEGINS AT BUTTERLEY
Your adventure starts at Butterley Station, where you may encounter passport control,(basic fairytale health screening procedures), curious characters and a touch of playful bureaucracy before boarding a heritage steam train. From here, you’ll travel on period steam and diesel through the Derbyshire countryside to the heart of the event at Swanwick Junction – a journey that’s all part of the experience.
On arrival, you’ll find a vast and vibrant site packed with things to explore. Swanwick Junction offers an incredible backdrop, with its historic railway buildings, exhibition spaces, scenic surroundings and open green spaces. Across the site you can enjoy:
- A curated steampunk market filled with unique traders and curiosities
- Live entertainment, performances and character encounters
- Exhibitions, model railways and heritage displays
- Talks and interactive features in atmospheric historic buildings
- Cafés, bar facilities and plenty of places to relax
DRESS THE PART (IF YOU DARE!)
Whether you arrive as a fairy, princess, explorer, inventor, or something a little darker, you’ll be in good company. Expect to see everything from classic fairytale characters to the more mysterious side of Victorian folklore – fae, pucks and fantastical beings inspired by the steampunk world.
Dressing up is encouraged, but not essential – spectators are just as welcome to soak up the spectacle.
images above courtesy of Ministry of Steampunk
A TRULY UNIQUE SETTING
The Midland Railway – Butterley provides the perfect setting for this event, starting at *Butterley Station travel in style to our site at Swanwick Junction, where you will find historical buildings, historic rolling stock, narrow gauge and a **miniature railway. Most of the event takes place at Swanwick Junction, which is only accessible by train during the event, adding to the sense of occasion and adventure.
A FULL DAY OUT FOR ALL AGES
With so much to see and do across the site, Steam Trains & Fairytales offers a full day out for families, enthusiasts and steampunk fans alike. Whether you’re here for the trains, the costumes, the shopping or simply the atmosphere, there’s something for everyone.
*Please note: Free Parking and entrance are at Butterley station. Swanwick Junction Station is not accessible with vehicles. ** Open most Sunday’s and bank holiday Mondays
Book now – We will see you there!