Volk’s Electric Railway to Open for Summer Season

Brighton & Hove’s historic and award-winning Volk’s Electric Railway will reopen on Saturday 28 March in time for the Easter holiday, marking the start of its 143rd year of operation. To celebrate the occasion, former television newsreader and long-standing supporter Nicholas Owen will take the controls to drive the first train of the season. With […]

Brighton & Hove’s historic and award-winning Volk’s Electric Railway will reopen on Saturday 28 March in time for the Easter holiday, marking the start of its 143rd year of operation.

To celebrate the occasion, former television newsreader and long-standing supporter Nicholas Owen will take the controls to drive the first train of the season.

With public services running daily from 10.15am, both residents and visitors will be able to enjoy the sights and sounds of the seafront aboard the world’s oldest operating electric railway.

Last week, Brighton & Hove Mayor, Councillor Amanda Grimshaw BEM, visited the railway for a preview ahead of the reopening. During her visit, she met staff currently completing driver training and observed final testing of the railway’s distinctive electric trains.

Councillor Grimshaw said:

“It was a pleasure to meet both new and longstanding members of the Volk’s Railway team who work so hard to keep this unique piece of our city’s heritage alive, and to see firsthand the passion and dedication that goes into preparing this much-loved attraction for the new season.

“Gaining a deeper insight into the history and engineering behind Magnus Volk’s remarkable creation was a real privilege and it’s inspiring to see how the ongoing transformation of Madeira Drive will encourage even more people to experience it.”

James Barton, Manager of Volk’s Electric Railway, added:

“It was lovely to welcome our Mayor to the railway last week during our soft opening period.

“Our team is excited to welcome passengers back for the 2026 season and we’re looking forward to celebrating our 143rd year with Nicholas Owen driving the first train.”

Originally built by Magnus Volk in 1883, Volk’s Electric Railway remains one of Brighton’s most recognisable and popular seafront attractions. Each year, thousands of residents, families, and visitors enjoy the mile-long journey along the beachfront between the Aquarium and Black Rock Station.

For more information, visit the Volk’s Electric Railway website.