A unique community project is bringing a touch of railway magic to the Lizard Peninsula. 

The Lizard Light Railway is the brainchild of a group of local volunteers who have been overseeing the railway for families who have been visiting the popular farm shop, and campsite.

Currently, the railway operates on a temporary track at Trerise Farm in Ruan Minor near The Lizard. However, the ambitious plans involve expanding it to circle the entire field and across the campsite at the Cornwall farm. 

The planned project is to create the UK's most southerly 7 1/4" gauge, ride-on railway. 

A 7 1/4" gauge - which refers to the distance between the tracks, and is the smallest gauge to safely ride in carriages, rather than on or astride - offers several advantages for visitors.

These include a smoother and safer ride for passengers, and an increased track gauge for longer, more intricate track layouts to extend possible journeys.

Ruby, a petrol/electric Scamp engine, is strong enough to pull up to ten adults on flat ground - despite only weighing 100kg. 

The attraction is great fun for all members of the family The attraction is great fun for all members of the family (Image: Kathy White)

However, it’s not just the railway that is the only attraction on offer. The site also features a dedicated area for remote-controlled vehicles, where visitors can bring their own remote-controlled vehicles to enjoy the open space.

The railway and remote-controlled area have been a popular addition to various events held at the farm, including the recent Halloween Pumpkin Patch.

Paul Green, engineer and chairman of the railways and remote-controlled area believes that these attractions can significantly boost visitor numbers, drawing in enthusiasts of model engineering and miniature railways, and local families.

While the railway has generated interest and enthusiasm, it faces financial challenges. Paul explained: “The cost of track materials is significant, and the project aims to raise between £10,000 and £15,000 to secure permanent tracks.”

 Despite the financial hurdles, the project has plenty of support from the community, with a dedicated Facebook page, Lizard Light Railway, and a small but passionate volunteer team.

There is also a designated remote-controlled vehicle area There is also a designated remote-controlled vehicle area (Image: Lizard Light Railway Facebook page) In addition, the Lizard Light Railway hopes that more volunteers come forward, in order for this community project to continue. Paul said: “To date, the railway only has three volunteers.

“When people turn up, they are really excited about it, it’s a great thing.

“We just need more volunteers and more money to get the thing really going.”

Donations can be made at the farm's cafe or shop, or email lizardlightrailway@gmail.com

The Lizard Light Railway will be up and running during events held at Trerise Farm on November 30 and December 21. It will then close throughout the winter and reopen during the Easter holidays in 2025.

More information can be found on the Lizard Light Railway page on Facebook.