Sandstone Estates

Sandstone Cherry Steam Festival 2026

Thursday 12 – Saturday 14 November

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Sandstone Estates

Sandstone Estates is a working commercial farm in South Africa’s Eastern Free State and home to one of the world’s most significant private heritage collections, including an operational 2 ft narrow gauge railway. Set beneath the Maluti Mountains along the Caledon River, the estate brings steam, military, agricultural, and motor history back to life – preserved, restored, and operated within a living modern agricultural landscape.

The property has been farmed since the mid-19th century, whilst the establishment of the heritage collection began on the property in 1996. The Sandstone Steam Railway opened in 1999, and Sandstone has since hosted regular festivals to showcase these working collections, including the Great 100 and 400 Working, and Stars of Sandstone.

Stories From Sandstone
Railway HeritageSandstone acquires another Royal Coach, Coach 57.
June 8, 2026

Sandstone acquires another Royal Coach, Coach 57.

Sandstone has acquired another 3’6’ gauge coach that has Royal connections. It is an ex CSAR Dining Car, last numbered 57 in South African Railway’s ownership. It was withdrawn in…
General NewsEaster Cosmos 2026. A short video on the recent Festival.
April 28, 2026

Easter Cosmos 2026. A short video on the recent Festival.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VSLgga8o5gE&t=6s
General NewsThe Sandstone Easter Cosmos Festival 2026 Gallery 4
April 7, 2026

The Sandstone Easter Cosmos Festival 2026 Gallery 4

Despite threats of a fuel crisis and rising prices Sandstone experienced large visitor numbers for its 2026 Easter Cosmos Festival. Running from Thursday April 2nd to Sunday April 5th visitors…

Walking Tours

Explore the estate on foot and discover Sandstone’s heritage collections up close.

Accommodation

Stay with us in the beautiful Eastern Free State and experience the charm and tranquillity of life at Sandstone.

Cherry Steam Festival 2026

Join us for heritage festivals and special gatherings that bring Sandstone’s historic collections to life.

Private Railway Experiences

Experience private rail journeys at Sandstone Estates, from classic railcars to scenic steam excursions through breathtaking countryside.

Film Locations

Sandstone Estates offers a versatile and visually striking filming location, featuring an operational 2ft narrow gauge steam railway, heritage buildings, vintage props, and dramatic natural landscapes.
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