Pichi Richi Railway
Pichi Richi Railway
4.5
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Monday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Tuesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Wednesday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Thursday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Friday
9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
Saturday
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
Sunday
10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
About
Watch the ancient landscape of the Flinders Ranges roll past as you relax in the style of a bygone era. Built in the 1870s, this unique 2021 SA Tourism award winning railway is the last remaining operating portion of the "Old Ghan" narrow-gauge line. After being abandoned in the 1950's the Railway was revived in 1974 by the volunteers of the Pichi Richi Railway Preservation Society who have progressively restored a remarkable collection of heritage locomotives and carriages. Trains operate March - November. Visit our website for timetable and bookings.
Suggested duration
More than 3 hours
Suggest edits to improve what we show.
Improve this listing
Full view
What is Travelers’ Choice?
Tripadvisor gives a Travelers’ Choice award to accommodations, attractions and restaurants that consistently earn great reviews from travelers and are ranked within the top 10% of properties on Tripadvisor.
Top ways to experience nearby attractions
The area
Address
Best nearby
Restaurants
8 within 3 miles
Attractions
13 within 6 miles
Contribute
Detailed Reviews: Reviews order informed by descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as cleanliness, atmosphere, general tips and location information.
Popular mentions
4.5
176 reviews
Excellent
137
Very good
33
Average
3
Poor
1
Terrible
2
3debw
Adelaide, Australia84 contributions
Apr 2021
This is a must do if you are wanting to experience something completely different, train aficionados or a tick off your bucket list. We travelled from Quorn to Woolshed Flat (return) in a 1900 Steam train with seating in 1st and 2nd class of 22 passengers.
Be warned you definitely need to book in advance as I think the dinner train only sets off 4 times a year.
Also not everybody (during swap over on the return) gets a chance in 1st class as there are less seats but we found everybody were enjoying themselves so much that photos were taken in 1st class for those who were keen.
From pre-boarding where we were welcomed with bubbles or OJ and yummy homemade canapes to the delicious 3 course meal at Woolshed Flat with local wines/beers/soft drinks and H2o and then our return it was quite an experience.
Now it was a warm day and back in the day there was no fans or air conditioning on the trains or Woolshed Flat so maybe along a little hand fan or electrical if warm and a cosy coat if cold.
The views of our Aussie Flora and Fauna as we travelled the Pichi Richi railway line was captivating and the occasional sighting of our native roo is always a joy.
We were also given an opportunity to stop and take photos.
The train driver, conductor who ensured we appreciated the journey we were travelling and the delicious spread set up at the Wool Shed were all appreciated by the 'travellers'.
The volunteers do a fabulous job and can't be thanked enough for their contribution to keeping this timeless tradition alive.
Be warned you definitely need to book in advance as I think the dinner train only sets off 4 times a year.
Also not everybody (during swap over on the return) gets a chance in 1st class as there are less seats but we found everybody were enjoying themselves so much that photos were taken in 1st class for those who were keen.
From pre-boarding where we were welcomed with bubbles or OJ and yummy homemade canapes to the delicious 3 course meal at Woolshed Flat with local wines/beers/soft drinks and H2o and then our return it was quite an experience.
Now it was a warm day and back in the day there was no fans or air conditioning on the trains or Woolshed Flat so maybe along a little hand fan or electrical if warm and a cosy coat if cold.
The views of our Aussie Flora and Fauna as we travelled the Pichi Richi railway line was captivating and the occasional sighting of our native roo is always a joy.
We were also given an opportunity to stop and take photos.
The train driver, conductor who ensured we appreciated the journey we were travelling and the delicious spread set up at the Wool Shed were all appreciated by the 'travellers'.
The volunteers do a fabulous job and can't be thanked enough for their contribution to keeping this timeless tradition alive.
Written April 6, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for your great review and glad you enjoyed the trip on the Coffee Pot.
We are aware of the issues with heat at Woolshed Flat and looking to install some fans and also timetabling the first Coffee Pot of the season to later in April when it is normally not so hot.
Written June 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
oz48downunder
Sydney, Australia89 contributions
Jun 2021 • Couples
At first I thought a whole day trip might be a bit long but the day flew by. We began by watching the train reverse into the station and I would learn later that veteren volunteer of 20+ yrs Barbara had her grandson firing the engine for our trip while her husband a former driver was working at the workshops. Barbara wad not only the captsin of our carriage but the conductor of the whole train well versed in her responsibilities and a professional guide fulfilling the thirst of passengers for information and the history of the PRR. Half way through the journey todays special train was joined by another at Woolshed flats and while the crew attended to linking the trains we had an opportunity to refresh ourselves with a bathroom break and refreshments. As I watched the engine navigate the triangle and turn around so as to double head and become the lead engine I marvelled at the simplicity of the engineering behind that and the complexity of the engine itself. Back on board the train climbed and crossed the summit arriving in Quorn we everyone alighted for lunch refreshments and exploring the museum. The return journey was express with just the one engine and before you realised we we were pulling into Port Augusta and the end of the trip.
Written June 24, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for your wonderful review following your trip on the Afghan Express. I know that it does seem like a long day, but as you say, it is full of different experiences especially with the double header from Woolshed Flat followed by Quorn and town and the railway museum.
We will pass on your comments around Barbara.
Thanks again.
Written June 24, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
777chrispy
Ararat, Australia78 contributions
Jul 2022 • Couples
Great fun day! Nothing like a steam train to make you feel nostalgic. The restored carriages were comfortable and authentic. Our guide was exceptional and very passionate about the railway. He answered all questions knowledgeably and with good humour. Lunch at Woolshed Flat was delicious and the accompanying ukulele music was fitting. Everyone on the train seemed to have a good time and it wasn’t spoilt by the slightly drizzly weather. We were sorry when it was over but will be recommending it to all our friends and family. Thanks to all the volunteers - particularly to our host.
Written July 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you 777chrispy for your kind note about the Port Augusta Musicians Club and the Pichi Richi Railway.
Glad you had a great day out, and sorry it took us a while to respond.
#teamPRR, Pichi RichI Railway
Written October 1, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
David B
Bruce, Australia961 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
This delightful train ride is a trip from Port Augusta to Quorn and return. Some days it goes the other way.
We arrived at Port Port Augusta station to the welcome of a rockabilly busker group. The members were all seniors but they were very modern, accepting electronic donations.
We had booked earlier. This is highly recommended. I don’t think there were any empty seats. I collected our real cardboard tickets from the booking office. They gave me carriage allocation. Our actual seats were provided by the conductor later on.
After a while the train backed into the platform. The engineer was very friendly and welcomed visitors onto the footplate. The engine made the most wonderful idling noises. There was no issue about walking on the tracks to see the locomotive up close and personal.
About 15 minutes before departure we were invited aboard our carriage. I think the seating capacity has been halved due to the virus.
The conductor shouted “all aboard” and we were off.
The trip took us past salt lakes, settlements, over trestle bridges, through narrow cuttings and past startled kangaroos. There was also no shortage of people taking photos from the road.
There was no restriction on opening windows and sticking our head out or standing at the carriage entry so photo opportunities abounded. I loved the smell of burning coal, the cinders and the occasional shot of steam. It all brought back lovely memories from my youth.
The train arrived in Quorn and we were allowed off. We spent about two hours here. The Austral Hotel offers diners from the train a complimentary drink with lunch. Many of the shops were not open. The best souvenirs are inside the railway station.
The train departed just a little late. A young girl raced up and told the conductor and the entire carriage that “mummy is in the toilet”. 😁
The return trip is, obviously, over the same route but you do get a different perspective going the other way.
We arrived at Port Port Augusta station to the welcome of a rockabilly busker group. The members were all seniors but they were very modern, accepting electronic donations.
We had booked earlier. This is highly recommended. I don’t think there were any empty seats. I collected our real cardboard tickets from the booking office. They gave me carriage allocation. Our actual seats were provided by the conductor later on.
After a while the train backed into the platform. The engineer was very friendly and welcomed visitors onto the footplate. The engine made the most wonderful idling noises. There was no issue about walking on the tracks to see the locomotive up close and personal.
About 15 minutes before departure we were invited aboard our carriage. I think the seating capacity has been halved due to the virus.
The conductor shouted “all aboard” and we were off.
The trip took us past salt lakes, settlements, over trestle bridges, through narrow cuttings and past startled kangaroos. There was also no shortage of people taking photos from the road.
There was no restriction on opening windows and sticking our head out or standing at the carriage entry so photo opportunities abounded. I loved the smell of burning coal, the cinders and the occasional shot of steam. It all brought back lovely memories from my youth.
The train arrived in Quorn and we were allowed off. We spent about two hours here. The Austral Hotel offers diners from the train a complimentary drink with lunch. Many of the shops were not open. The best souvenirs are inside the railway station.
The train departed just a little late. A young girl raced up and told the conductor and the entire carriage that “mummy is in the toilet”. 😁
The return trip is, obviously, over the same route but you do get a different perspective going the other way.
Written April 25, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for your very detailed review and great you had a good trip.
Unfortunately our capacity is reduced to meet social distancing requirements although with groups, our capacity is about 75%
Guests are recommended to book ahead as far as possible so as to not be disappointed
Written June 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Jordan M
Greater Sydney, Australia11 contributions
Apr 2021 • Couples
The Pichi Richi Railway is a fabulous train ride on a steam train from Quorn to Woolshed Flats.
The train has been remarkably restored and maintained by volunteers who are obviously passionate about what they do.
They perform their duties so professionally with detail to safety and comfort of passengers.
The train ride itself on this beautiful train is comfortable and fun.
On arriving in Woolshed flat we were greeted by more enthusiastic volunteers who had prepared beautiful, traditional yummy refreshments for sale. ( cash only) .
The train has been remarkably restored and maintained by volunteers who are obviously passionate about what they do.
They perform their duties so professionally with detail to safety and comfort of passengers.
The train ride itself on this beautiful train is comfortable and fun.
On arriving in Woolshed flat we were greeted by more enthusiastic volunteers who had prepared beautiful, traditional yummy refreshments for sale. ( cash only) .
Written April 16, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you for your review and glad you enjoyed the meeting.
Please note that we are now able to take card payments at Woolshed Flat following the completion of a new Telstra Tower in the region and a new antenna at our building.
Written June 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Liisa and Dave B
Adelaide, Australia2,449 contributions
Sep 2020 • Couples
What an excellent bonus to our trip to have been able to ride the Pichi Richi from Quorn to Woolshed Flat. I was sure that all the tickets had sold out due to being Father’s Day. It was so exciting as the steam train left the station. Beautiful scenic views all the way. The staff member on our carriage was very informative about the history of the train and Australian history in general. Duration was 3 hours, about an hour to Woolshed Flat & then we stopped there for an hour for coffee and scones. The staff at Woolshed flat warmly greeted us. It would have been good if we’d known beforehand that they only accept cash as there are no atms there. Covid restrictions were adhered to. We were able to get many good pics. Highly recommend a steam train ride on the Pichi Richi!
Written September 12, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thanks for your review Lisa and Dave.
We are glad that you enjoyed your trip on the Pichi Richi Explorer. We try and advise that it is cash only at Woolshed Flat but the message doesn't always get through. Perhaps one day we will have internet and mobile phone connection.
Written October 17, 2020
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
nathanfreeman82
Adelaide, Australia152 contributions
Jun 2021 • Family
This was the first time that we have visited Quorn and been on the Pichi Richi Railway with our 4 year old. It was a fantastic experience, the carriages were clean and not overcrowded, the staff were extremely friendly and the scenery was amazing. The driver let our son sit in the front of the steam train in the driver's seat and watch them shovel the coal into the fire. Overall was a fantastic experience and a must for all!
Written June 12, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Nathan
Thanks for your review and so glad you had a great trip and that your 4 year old had a wonderful time. It is a wonderful area to run a steam train through - we are so lucky.
Thanks again.
Written June 24, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
BelWDuns
Dunsborough, Australia33 contributions
Oct 2022 • Couples
What a fabulous way to round out a great holiday. This was the best half day. This experience evokes so many nostalgic emotions. The scenery was beautiful. The engine and carriages are so beautifully restored and the fact that it’s all by volunteers is all the more impressive. All the volunteers were friendly and informative. Make sure you do this but make sure you book well in advance as it’s very popular.
Written October 23, 2022
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thank you BelWDuns for your very kind comments.
Our volunteers certainly appreciate hearing from our passengers especially when they appreciate us operating an iconic authentic heritage railway museum and keeping our rail heritage alive in the southern Flinders Ranges, South Australia.
#teamPRR, Pichi Richi Railway
Written November 7, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
Dave R
6 contributions
Oct 2021
We rode the Pichi Richi from Quorn to Woolshed Flat and return as part of our family trip to the Flinders Ranges. Our Car Captain was Rob, a volunteer, was friendly, knowledgeable, and happy to have a conversation. The train itself was in great condition and our car "Sturt" was very comfortable and clean. Was quite an experience in this day and age to be able to open a train window and take photo's out of the open window.
The kids enjoyed climbing into the Loco after it changed ends at Woolshed Flat and the Kitchen Staff were very friendly and welcoming, waving to the train upon its arrival and departure, the scones were good too!
A great way to spend a day in Quorn, we highly recommend this experience to family's with children of all ages.
The kids enjoyed climbing into the Loco after it changed ends at Woolshed Flat and the Kitchen Staff were very friendly and welcoming, waving to the train upon its arrival and departure, the scones were good too!
A great way to spend a day in Quorn, we highly recommend this experience to family's with children of all ages.
Written October 10, 2021
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Better late than never.... apologies for our late reply.
Thank you for the positive feedback, and our volunteers will be happy to hear your family enjoyed the day out on the Pichi Richi Railway.
#teamPRR
Written April 12, 2022
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
The Big Brown Bear
Monash, Australia416 contributions
Oct 2020
This was recommended by a "train tragic" friend so we "had to do it". AND, so glad we did. The trip was awesome, the train was just like I remember when growing up in the 50s and the scenery fantastic. The trip from Quorn to Woolshed Flat and return takes about 3 hours. The carriages have all been fully restored and show the beautiful wood craftsmanship that was used when the carriages were originally made. The staff on the train were very helpful and informative considering that they are volunteers. Covid-19 were strictly adhered to. The scones and tea as Woolshed Flat was a great way to interrupt the trip whilst the train was turned for the return journey. There is no ATM at Woolshed as there is no phone connection.
Written November 17, 2020
This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.
Thanks for your great review and glad you had a good trip. We do now have the ability to take electronic payments at Woolshed Flat now that the Telstra tower has been completed and we have installed an additional antenna to ensure we have a strong enough signal.
Written June 1, 2021
This response is the subjective opinion of the management representative and not of Tripadvisor LLC.
dawnj0nes1
Milsons Point, Australia
Does the train travel quoin to port Augusta every day.? Do you need to book.?
Pichi Richi Railway
Quorn, Australia4 contributions
Hi. The Pichi Richi Railway is operated entirely by volunteers. We do not operate every day, but most weekends from March to October. We do not operate during the summer months due to the high temperatures and fire danger. We do not operate a scheduled service from Quorn to Port Augusta but you could book one way trip Quorn to Port Augusta on our Afghan Express service but you would need to make your own way back. Check out timetable on our website.
VickiofSydney
Sydney, Australia46 contributions
Hi Brenton are you interested in joining PRR? we would welcome enthuastic people like you. Some members including committee members reside as far away as NSW and VIC and can only visit Quorn once or twice a year. Every little bit helps.
Pichi Richi Railway
Quorn, Australia4 contributions
We have all sorts of role available, too many to mention here, so please refer the Volunteering section on our website or feel free to give us a call.
Pichi Richi Railway (Quorn) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Frequently Asked Questions about Pichi Richi Railway
- Pichi Richi Railway is open:
- Mon - Fri 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM
- Sat - Sun 10:00 AM - 3:00 PM
- Hotels near Pichi Richi Railway:
- (0.10 mi) Great Northern Lodge
- (0.09 mi) Transcontinental Hotel
- (0.08 mi) Austral Inn Hotel
- (0.08 mi) Quorn Hotel
- (0.04 mi) Criterion Hotel Motel
- Restaurants near Pichi Richi Railway:
- (0.11 mi) Emily's Bistro
- (0.12 mi) Quandong Cafe
- (0.08 mi) Austral Inn Hotel
- (0.08 mi) Transcontinental
- (0.09 mi) Quorn Takeaway