We thought that a trip to the Bluebell Railway just before Christmas would be slightly different from our previous December outings.
This year, the Bluebell Railway is bringing an immersive narrative of ‘Somewhere Over the Rainbow’ and The Good Witch is your host for the night.
On arrival at Sheffield Park Station, enjoy the station facilities, grab a snack or drink from the café, and have a look at the shop. Once on the platform at Sheffield Park Station, you will be advised of the area in which to stand for the grand count-down ceremony leading up to the spectacular switch-on when the whole train will be illuminated before your eyes.
We have reserved five compartments to ensure everyone has a good view. After you’ve boarded, we travel down the line on a steam train and from the window you’ll get to admire colourful, bright and abundant lineside displays. The lineside displays are based on the four seasons. These are set against the winter countryside while you remain warm and cosy on-board and can listen to a narrated story and music played in each carriage.
Travelling through the Sussex countryside under cover of darkness, the SteamLights train brings shimmering light and colour as you go. Along the way, enjoy new themed scenes among the trees and clearings and a colourful light show orchestrated in time with music. A multi-sensory feast! Please note, flashing lights will be used in one of the displays.
We then arrive at Horsted Keynes for a short while, where you can remain on the train or explore the platform and purchase a hot drink or snack – maybe a glass of mulled wine and a mince pie. During this time the train uncouples and re-attaches which is a fun moment to watch!
We have reserved five compartments on the train which departs at 16.45pm.
We aim to leave at 19.30 pm
Cost per person: £60 to include coach travel, train journey and driver’s gratuity
Coach pick up times
14.45 pm Brockham (bus stop on Brockham Lane at end of The Avenue)
14.55 pm Dorking Halls