BURE BLOG

05TH
Aug

A family day out at Bure Valley Railway

Begin your day… in Aylsham, the market town is where we start our steam train journey. Before you board we hope you’ve had a chance to explore the quaint shops along Red Lion Street and stocked up on refreshments at our café.

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!

Your final arrival is in Wroxham aptly named the ‘capital of the Broads’. There are plenty of opportunities to get on the water. Take advantage of our train and broads cruise ticket which will take you through the picturesque Norfolk Broads National Park. Hop back on the train to Aylsham a return home from your steam train adventure…

*For Brampton, Buxton and Coltishall let the driver know if you’d like to get off, also these stations have no facilities.