Real Ale Train
'RAT'
The Real Ale train - running on selected saturdays
Our famous Real Ale Train, or RAT as it is affectionately known, returns in 2026 to continue its tradition of serving real ale from the bar car whilst travelling by train through the Hampshire countryside.
Enjoy a selection of ale and locally produced cider at only £4.50 a pint or £2.50 for a half pint. We select local breweries from Hampshire and the surrounding counties for each train, so they’ll be plenty of choice. Additional alcoholic beverages and soft drinks are available on the night at different prices.
Booking in advance secures a FREE pint voucher for every ticket purchased! Vouchers for beer and food will be printed at check-in on the evening.Â
Train departs Alton at 7pm.
There will be food available on the train.
Following completion of two round trips of the line, the train will then return to Alton at 10:30pm, in time for the South Western Railways service to London Waterloo, Guildford, Southampton, Portsmouth & Bournemouth.
compartments
We have a very limited number of compartments available on each of the RAT dates.
One compartment can accommodate a maximum of 6 people.
The price per compartment which includes travel and six FREE pint vouchers is £200. These are sold on a first come, first served basis.
Sneaky peak of what to expect...
• FREE pint included in your ticket when you purchase online in advance
• Only £4.50 a pint or £2.50 for a half pint!
• We select local breweries from Hampshire and the surrounding counties for each train
• Your on-board experience is approximately three and a half hours long
• Hot food options now available onboard
Local Ales change regularly
18th July – Flower Pots Brewery
25th July – Downton Ales
1st August – Alfreds Brewery
29th August – Triple FFF Brewery
5th September – Bowman Ales
26th September – Steamtown Brew Co
24th October – Longdog Brewery
Mr Whitehead’s & Blackmoor Cider will be available on all dates.Â
Evening themes
29th August – Sports Stars – Wear anything from Cricket Whites to a Tennis Skirt!
10% off if you order food & drink in advance
In 2025, take advantage of 10% off your food and drinks if you order it when you buy your RAT ticket.
Tickets
Adults (Age 18+)
£30
Compartment for up to 6 people
£200
Adults
Age 18+
Advanced Booking: £20.00
Booking fee of £2.50 may apply.
Accessibility
Customers with limited mobility can use their wheelchair to board the service but, due to the internal dimensions of our carriages, wheelchairs cannot then be used for access to seats or for mobility once on board.
Parking (for designated drivers!)
Alton:Â Pay & display car park, operated by South Western Railway. Please be advised spaces may be limited.
