Plenty of travellers reach the ends of Train Street, meet a barrier and a guard, and assume it's closed. It usually isn't โ you just need to know the right way in. Here's how to get trackside safely without the barricade drama.
1. Why the Barriers Are There
The barricades exist because tourists once crowded the tracks dangerously. They're a safety measure, not a total ban โ the experience continues through the cafes behind them.
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2. Enter Through a Cafe
Head to a trackside cafe entrance; as a paying guest you'll be shown to a safe seat by the rails. This is the legitimate, welcomed way past the barriers.
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3. Time It Around a Train
Arrive 20โ30 minutes before a scheduled train so you're seated and settled. Staff will position everyone safely and signal when to stand back.
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4. What Not to Do
Don't climb over barriers, walk the tracks for photos, or ignore staff. Beyond being unsafe, it's exactly the behaviour that triggers crackdowns and closures.
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5. When in Doubt, Go With a Local
If barriers are strict on the day, a local guide knows which cafe is admitting guests and how to enter smoothly โ no wasted trips.
6. Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Will I be turned away at the barricade?
A: Only if you try to walk the open tracks. Enter as a cafe guest and you'll be welcomed to a safe trackside seat.
Q: How early should I arrive?
A: 20โ30 minutes before a scheduled train, so you're seated before it passes and staff can position you safely.
Q: What if the barriers are strict that day?
A: A local guide will know which cafe is admitting guests. We can arrange safe access with a tour.
