Did you know Maitland was one of the first places in Australia to get railway services, with the Great Northern Railway steaming into East Maitland way back in 1857?
Neither did I until I fell down the rabbit hole of ‘train stuff near me’.
With Hunter Valley Steamfest 2025 just around the corner, it’s time to dust off your conductor’s hat, slap on some sunscreen and hop aboard as we take a closer look at all things steam and trains in Maitland!
Hunter Valley Steamfest - Maitland’s Biggest Rail Celebration
Since its launch in 1986, the Hunter Valley Steamfest has become the ultimate celebration of the region’s rail and industrial heritage. Held over two action-packed days (12–13 April 2025), Steamfest brings together heritage steam train rides, vintage machinery, market stalls, live music, kids’ activities and more.
At Steamfest, two historic steam locomotives will take centre stage:
Locomotive 3265 – a 1902-built C32-class engine that ran for 66 years and is now preserved by the Powerhouse Museum, and
Locomotive 3526 – a 1917-built C35-class locomotive famously painted in Caledonian Blue for the Caves Express, now maintained by Transport Heritage NSW.
Don’t miss the chance to see these magnificent machines in action! For more info, visit the Steamfest website.
In the lead-up to Steamfest, why not dive deeper into Maitland’s rich railway history by exploring these other incredible steam and train experiences?
step back in time at the maitland railway museum
Tucked away in The Old Bathhouse in Telarah, the Maitland Railway Museum is a hidden gem for train buffs and history lovers alike. Dedicated to preserving the legacy of the South Maitland Railways (SMR) – once a coal transport powerhouse – the museum is packed with fascinating artifacts, tools and displays that bring Maitland’s rail history to life.
Open on the first Sunday of each month (10am–3pm), the museum features impressive exhibits, a working model railway and explores the SMR’s role in the region’s coal boom.
the picnic train - a journey through time
All aboard! The Picnic Train is more than just a train ride – it’s a step back into the golden age of train travel. Described as a ‘living museum on rails’, this heritage experience lets passengers soak in the scenery while enjoying the rhythmic chug of classic steam locomotives 5917 and R766.
So, will the Maitland to Dungog trips return in 2025? You bet! Grab your beanie and scarf because The Picnic Train will be steaming back into town in late winter – giving you the perfect excuse for a day of nostalgia, fun and maybe even an indulgent first-class high tea.
morpeth museum - more than just trains
Housed in the historic 1862 Courthouse on Swan Street, the Morpeth Museum is a fascinating time capsule of Maitland’s river port days. Once a bustling hub of trade and culture, Morpeth played a key role in the Hunter Valley’s development, and its museum tells the story through local industries, family histories and historical artifacts.
Want to get hands-on? Take a seat in the judge’s chair or explore the Arnott’s Collection, where you can uncover the origins of Aussie icons like Arnott’s Biscuits and OAK milkshakes. Open Thursday to Sunday (11am–2pm), it’s the perfect spot for a deep dive into Maitland’s past.
Richmond Vale Railway Museum – A Hidden Railway Haven
Nestled in the scenic bushland near Kurri Kurri, the Richmond Vale Railway Museum is a must-visit for railway and history enthusiasts alike. Once a key coal transport route, today the site preserves the region’s industrial legacy with heritage train rides, interactive displays and a miniature railway perfect for families.
While currently closed for safety reviews, the museum is expected to reopen soon – so keep an eye on their website for updates.
The Rail Motor Society – A Living Piece of Rail History
Tucked away in Paterson’s old Goods Yard, the Rail Motor Society is home to one of the most unique collections of self-propelled railway vehicles in Australia. This community-run group preserves heritage-listed rail motors, including the HPC 402, the only operational unit of its kind still running today.
Open to the public on the third Sunday of each month (except December) from 10am–3pm, visitors can tour the museum, hop aboard a rail motor and even enjoy special train rides from Paterson to Dungog. To plan your visit, check out their website.
Looking for More?
Want to discover even more museums and galleries across NSW? Visit mgnsw.org.au and search by location or interest – whether you love technology, crime or history, there’s something for everyone.
All Aboard for Maitland’s Rail Heritage!
Whether you’re a lifelong rail enthusiast or just looking for a fun way to explore Maitland’s past, our town is packed with railway history waiting to be discovered. From steam powered adventures to fascinating museum exhibits – and the unmissable spectacle of Steamfest – there’s no better excuse to jump aboard and experience the magic of Maitland’s railway heritage.
