It’s not every day you get to ride on one of Britain’s most spectacular miniature railways but yesterday we did just that. Thanks to family who surprised us with a voucher for part of our tenth wedding anniversary last month.
We’d not heard of the Great Cockcroft Railway before but it’s located less than 15 miles from us in Lyne near Chertsey. Open every Sunday from May until the end of October we just made it before the season ended.
It’s one of the only miniature railways in the country that represents a true mainline. Constructed 46 years ago, it has 30 steam engines and a system that runs on two routes in rural surroundings. The engines are beautiful and in great condition. POD enjoyed watching them pass by while we waited to board.
Understandably once we were on the train, it was all SO exciting. Not the greatest of photographs but just look at the delight on POD’s face!
We took the red route first which runs along the original route of the railway. The trains run from Hardwick Station through Everglades
and over a viaduct to Cockcrow Hill Station. There we saw the engine uncoupled before being turned on the turntable. On the way back we passed through Greywood Tunnel which was dark but lots of fun! There was so much to see on the way round – from the scenery to the stations to these beautiful old signs. There were also people on the passing trains to wave at.
The green route took us from main station Hardwick onto Cockcrow Hill
at which point we traveled around the Millennium Loop where we spotted sheep and cows. POD also felt the need to outstretch her arms like Kate Winslet did in the film Titantic.
The train then headed back to Hardwick via Greywood Tunnel and the Everglades Junction.
There was so much for POD to look at from what was going on around her to the trees above.
There was much laughing, smiling and of course concentrating!
Even POD’s invisible friend Lucifer popped along for a little while! Here she is holding him before he darted off to explore.
Back at Hardwick station, we got the opportunity to sit in the driver seat. POD looks like she’s surrounded by giants in this photograph but the trains really are miniature.
The dedication from the staff really has to be admired. The Great Cockcrow Railway is maintained and operated by a team of volunteers – all of whom are enthusiasts. From the ticket office through to the drivers and the mechanics, everyone was just wonderful.
The fun didn’t stop there either. Heading towards the cafe, POD decided to become a soldier. Apparently this is how they stand – I’m guessing minus the pout! Having devoured a hot drink and piece of cake we headed back home after what was a really fabulous experience.
Linking up with #whatsthestory here on PODcast and #countrykids at Coombe Mil.
