My two-year-old son is currently obsessed with trains. From kids TV shows about them to playing with his train set, they are a big part of his life right now.
So, when I heard about the Avon Valley Railway, I knew I had to take him there and, with the heritage railway currently running Christmas specials steam train services, this felt like the ideal time to go. In true toddler lifestyle, we got to the station at Bitton, South Gloucestershire, with just a few minutes to spare and with a screaming child because he didn’t want to wear a coat.
Running to get on the train, it took us a few minutes to relax but once we got moving all that stress to get there felt worth it. My son was so excited looking out the window, desperately shouting “train” as he bounced up and down the seat.
Being sat on a heritage train, I was loving it as I felt like I was on Harry Potter. It was not long until we were given a couple of shortbread biscuits and mince pies (both delicious), which our toddlers were too distracted to eat so we enjoyed them. If only we had had time to grab a hot drink before boarding the train.
A highlight of the trip was getting off the train to watch it turn around, together with seeing Santa pass through the train to say hi to everyone. The 50 minute train ride was just the right amount of time and, when we got off just before 5pm, we were told the donkeys had already left sadly.
There was a long queue to go to the Santa’s grotto so we opted for just getting the present, a donkey plush toy that they both loved and provided much joy on the journey back home.
At £21 each, this was an expensive activity to do with the children and it certainly felt like a treat. However, they both loved it and was something different and a bit special so I would recommend it to those with train-obsessed kids. I was surprised how much I enjoyed it myself so I imagine we will be back at some point soon so I may even see you there…