Puffing Billy

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Puffing Billy

Train Reviews

Puffing Billy

Puffing Billy Reviews & Ratings: Is It the Right Train for You?

Puffing Billy is Australia’s favorite heritage steam railway. Winding through the Dandenong Ranges just outside Melbourne, this century-old railway is a vibrant, living museum. Puffing Billy famously allows passengers to sit on the carriage sills with their legs dangling over the side—a thrilling tradition that draws visitors from all over the world.

For families and tourists in 2026, it offers an unbeatable mix of nostalgia, fresh mountain air, and lush fern gully views. However, because it is an open-air steam train, knowing what to wear and what to pack is essential.

Puffing Billy at a Glance

  • Operator: Puffing Billy Railway Board
  • Major Routes: Belgrave to Lakeside or Gembrook (Victoria)
  • Journey Time: 1 to 3 hours (depending on destination)
  • Best For: Families, history buffs, and anyone seeking a fun, nostalgic day out.
Puffing Billy

Onboard Experience: What to Expect

The train consists of traditional open-sided carriages, pulled by historic steam locomotives.

Open-Sided Carriages (Standard)

The most popular way to ride. These carriages have long bench seats and open sides. Passengers over the age of 4 are allowed to sit on the window sills and dangle their legs outside the carriage (under staff supervision).

First-Class Dining Carriages

For a premium experience, the railway runs enclosed, beautifully restored dining carriages on select services. These offer formal meals, high teas, or grazing platters in a temperature-controlled environment. (Note: You cannot dangle your legs from these carriages!)

Luggage Allowance & Policies (Updated 2026)

Major 2026 Warning: Puffing Billy is a heritage day-tourist train. There are no overhead compartments or luggage racks for large items.

Luggage Size / Type Policy Cost
Small Backpacks / Purses Permitted. Must be kept at your feet or on your lap. Free
Prams & Foldable Wheelchairs Must be fully collapsed and stored in the guard’s van. Space is limited and allocated first-come, first-served. Free
Suitcases / Oversized Bags Banned from the train. There are no secure lockers at Belgrave Station for large suitcases. N/A

Note on Attire: You are riding behind a real steam engine. Expect occasional soot and ash to fly into the open carriages. Do not wear expensive or white clothing!

Customer Service & Reliability

  • The Highs: The passionate volunteer staff make the experience magical. The new Lakeside Visitor Centre provides excellent food, modern bathrooms, and historical exhibits halfway through the journey.
  • The Lows: The open carriages provide no protection from the cold Victorian weather in winter. Trains can be heavily crowded during school holidays, making it hard to secure a sill-sitting spot if you don’t board early.

Pros & Cons of Traveling on Puffing Billy

Pros:

  • Sill-sitting is a rare, exhilarating experience you won’t find on modern trains.
  • The Dandenong Ranges scenery is incredibly lush and beautiful.
  • The Lakeside Visitor Centre is a modern, top-tier facility for lunch breaks.

Cons:

  • Soot from the steam engine can get in your eyes and on your clothes.
  • Cold and windy during winter months.
  • Belgrave station is a long commute (over an hour) from central Melbourne.

Have You Traveled on Puffing Billy?

Your experience helps other travelers make informed decisions! Did you get a spot on the sills, or did the soot ruin your favorite shirt?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Puffing Billy

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Puffing Billy

Children must be at least 4 years old to sit on the sill, and they must be accompanied by an adult. For safety reasons, sill-sitting is strictly monitored by the train guards.

Is the train open when it rains?

Yes, Puffing Billy runs rain or shine. In heavy rain, the crew will lower the plastic blinds on the open carriages, but you may still get a little damp. Bring a jacket!

Can I take my bike on the train?

No, bicycles are not permitted on regular Puffing Billy services due to space constraints in the heritage carriages.

Disclaimer: All information, policies, and details presented on this page are gathered from publicly available resources and are subject to change. Please verify directly with the operator before booking.