Private Bookings
We have a number of options available for Private Bookings at our railway including both train charters and picnic area hire. Further details can be found below including terms and conditions, booking links and frequently asked questions.
Important information
2024 Private Bookings Limited Availability
Thank you for your interest in booking a function with us. Private bookings at our railway are incredibly popular, and limited spaces for 2024 remain at this time.
Unfortunately, combined train charter and picnic area hire on Saturdays are fully booked for 2024.
Spaces remain on select Saturdays for 12:30 PM train charter (only) bookings, as are picnic area bookings on Sunday Public Run Days.
Bookings for 2025 will open at 12:o0 PM on July 1st 2024, and we encourage you to book early to avoid disappointment.
We appreciate your understanding and continuing support of our railway.
Train Charter
Ideal for birthday parties, family events or a unique and memorable function of any kind, we offer the opportunity to charter one of our trains for your exclusive use.
Set within beautiful parkland, your guests will experience journeys around the railway behind one of our diesel or electric locomotives operated by our friendly volunteers.
Whether your party or function is railway themed, or you’re just looking for something a bit different, we are sure our trains will be hit with young and old.
Our trains are very popular and places are limited, so it is best to book early to make sure you don’t miss your train!
Picnic Area
Located in the center of the railway amongst the trees and trains, our undercover private picnic area is ideal for functions large and small.
The picnic area includes a concrete floor and cafe blinds to help guard against the fickle Melbourne weather. Folding tables and chairs are included along with two BBQ hot plates. 240 V power is also available within the picnic area.
Our picnic area includes its own siding station, ‘PIC NIC’, which can be used on non-public run days if you choose the option of also hiring a train.
Like our trains, places are limited, so we recommend you book early to avoid disappointment.
Private Booking Terms and Conditions
Please read the following terms and conditions carefully. By making a Private Booking with Box Hill Miniature Steam Railway Society, you agree to the following terms and conditions.
- Payment in full is required at the time of making your Private Booking.
- If you wish to cancel your Private Booking, please contact the Box Hill Miniature Steam Railway Society functions coordinator via the details provided to you at the time of booking.
- If you cancel your Private Booking, a non-refundable booking fee of $50.00 will be retained by Box Hill Miniature Steam Railway Society.
- In the unlikely event that Box Hill Miniature Steam Railway Society requires to cancel your Private Booking, your payment will be refunded in full.
- All Private Booking guests will abide by the safety information shown on the Box Hill Miniature Steam Railway website and all reasonable instructions from Box Hill Miniature Steam Railway members.
Secure Your Booking Now
Train Charter and Picnic Area
$600.00
- Available on Saturdays, excluding June and July, from 10:30 AM until 1:30 PM.
- First train departs at 11:00 AM, with 6 consecutive trips.
- One diesel or electric locomotive with up to 6 carriages.
- Up to 80 people.
- Includes BBQ, tables and chairs hire.
- Clean up must be completed and the area vacated by 2:00 PM.
Train Charter
$300.00
- Available on Saturdays, excluding June and July.
- Trains depart from the station.
- First train departs at 12:30 PM, with 6 consecutive trips.
- One diesel or electric locomotive with up to 6 carriages.
- Does not include private picnic area; there are public picnic tables adjacent to the railway which may be available.
Picnic Area
(On Public Running Days)
$300.00
- Available on Sunday Public Running Days from 10:30 AM until 1:30 PM.
- Trains depart from the station from 11:00 AM until 4:00 PM.
- Tickets available for purchase from the Ticket Office.
- Up to 80 people.
- Includes BBQ, tables and chairs hire.
- Clean up must be completed and the area vacated by 2:00 PM.
Note, availability and booking buttons above open TryBooking page in a new window.
Frequently Asked Questions
The following covers the most common questions we get regarding our Private Bookings.
Yes, it additionally includes weather blinds on 2 sides (on the north and west sides).
The picnic area is approximately 6 m x 12 m.
There are 8 trestle tables and 30+ folding chairs available for you to use and configure as you require.
Yes, you can drive and leave one car in the picnic area to assist with bringing in and removing items for your function.
Instructions for accessing the picnic area by will be provided by our volunteers upon your arrival.
Yes, the picnic area can be accessed from 9:30 AM to allow time to setup prior to your guests arriving.
Please note that you need to be packed up (including cleaning) and vacate the picnic area by 2:00 PM.
Yes, 240 V AC power, drinking water and undercover lighting are all available within the picnic area.
No, usage of the 2 gas BBQs is included in the hire price. The BBQs are very easy to use and instructions and cleaning supplies are provided.
Each trip can accommodate approximately 30 people, depending on the mix of adults and children.
Note that there must be at least one supervising adult in all carriages carrying children.
Each train trip takes approximately 10 minutes. The 6 consecutive trips take around 70 to 80 minutes.
Got a specific question about private bookings at our railway?
Get in touch and one of our friendly volunteers will be happy to help.