All aboard the Little Train: a low-cost family day out at Fairlop Waters

The Little Train is a hit with younger children, a gentle ride round the lake at just the right pace for little ones. It's charming, it's cheap, and it's an easy win on a day when small legs are tired. Best of all, it's the start of a proper low-cost day out at Fairlop Waters, our country park in Barkingside, east London. Here's what to expect, and how to make a whole day of it without spending much.

A gentle ride round the lake

The Little Train trundles along by the water at an easy, unhurried pace, slow enough for little ones to take it all in, with plenty to look at as you go. For a toddler who loves anything on wheels, it's often the bit of the day they remember most. There's no rush and no fuss: you hop on, you ride round, and everyone gets to sit down for a bit.

It's a small, simple pleasure rather than a big attraction, and that's exactly why it works for young families. A short, happy ride that suits the youngest visitors, and a nice gentle moment in the middle of a busy day out.

What it costs and when it runs

Rides on the Little Train are £3 a passenger, about as gentle on the wallet as it is on the legs. You can pay by card or cash on the day, and there's no need to book.

The train runs the same days as the boats: every weekend, all school holidays and bank holidays, from 11am until an hour before sunset. You'll always find the current details on the Little Train page.

Make a day of it: a cheap day out at Fairlop Waters

The train is a lovely start, but it's even better as part of a whole day by the lake. Here's how to make an easy, low-cost day of it:

• Hop on the Little Train for a gentle ride to get everyone in the holiday mood, £3 a passenger.

• Bring a picnic and find a spot by the water. The park has plenty of open green space and paths to wander, and there's no charge to sit and enjoy it.

• Add a boat when the older ones fancy a go: a pedalo or rowing boat seats the whole family, from £5.50 a child for half an hour.

• Or try a Chuckle Bike: four wheels, two seats, no experience needed, so a grown-up and a child can pedal round together.

Do all of it, or just the bits that suit the ages and energy you've brought with you. Either way, it's a full day out near London for not very much.

Frequently asked questions

How much is the Little Train?

£3 a passenger. It's one of the cheapest things to do at the park, a gentle ride that won't break the bank.

Is it good for toddlers?

Yes, it's especially popular with younger children. The pace is slow and gentle, and there's lots to see round the lake. It's an easy, happy ride for little ones.

When does the train run?

The same days as the boats: every weekend, all school holidays and bank holidays, from 11am until an hour before sunset. For the latest details, the Little Train page is always the up-to-date version.

Can we do other things while we're there?

Plenty. There's boat hire on the lake and Chuckle Bikes too, so you can easily turn the train ride into a full day out.

Ride the Little Train

A ride on the Little Train is a small, charming, £3 way to start a day out at Fairlop Waters, and there's a whole lake to enjoy once you hop off. No booking needed: pick a day, head for Barkingside, and turn up.

• Ride the Little Train: check the current ride times first.

• Hire a boat to make a day of it on the water.

• Hire a Chuckle Bike for an easy ride round the lake.

• Planning a group? Call us on 07700 105100.