A Day Out on the Railway

A Family Steam Adventure

Begin your family day out in the charming market town of Aylsham, where your steam train adventure on the Bure Valley Railway begins. Before stepping aboard, take time to wander the quaint independent shops along Red Lion Street, then call into our Whistlestop Café to pick up a treat or two for the journey. With the sights, sounds and excitement of steam waiting at the platform, the perfect day out is already gathering pace.

Ten minutes’ drive from Aylsham station is Blickling Hall, a famous Norfolk estate with acres of woodland and farmland ready to explore. Children will love wandering the walled vegetable garden and the fishing lakes.

Redwings Horse Sanctuary is also nearby and is a chance for the whole family to get up close and cuddly with friendly horses and donkeys. Entry is free to visit to rescued animals and during school’s holidays there’s a jam-packed schedule of activities to enjoy.

The first stop on your steam train experience is Brampton on the approach look to your right where a seemingly ordinary field holds history from Roman Britain. This field was the site of the largest pottery production in Roman times!

Next up is Buxton, feel free to hop off and explore the village and its host of walking routes. Remember your wellies for a stroll along the River Bure or on to Oxnead with its great hall. Your legs will need a well-earned rest, it’s time to flag down the next train and head to the penultimate stop, Coltishall.

Coltishall, often called the ‘Gateway to The Broads’ is a popular mooring point for many boats. Pack a picnic to enjoy on the village common and wave at the cruisers sailing by. Coltishall is a 15-minute walk from our station, maybe not one for little legs, but for older children it’s a great spot to boat watch!