A Magical Christmas Train Ride
We recently had the pleasure of visiting the Audley End Miniature Railway Christmas Experience in Saffron Waldon which won our 2023 Essex Mums award for Best Seasonal Event. We visited with our family of two adults and two children in late November so we were filled with excitement and anticipation.
Upon arrival, we were pleased to find ample parking conveniently located close to the entrance. The staff greeted us warmly and efficiently, scanned our tickets, checked us in at the desk, and handed us the tickets for the train ride – which is the first part of the experience. We were also given activity sheets for the kids.
Train Ride Adventure
We arrived a little early, about 20-30 minutes prior to the scheduled departure, allowing us to avoid any rushing. While waiting, we took the opportunity to grab a hot drink and a snack, the hot chocolate with whipped cream & marshmallows was a hit.
Once onboard the train, we were delighted by its cute and snug design. While it was perfect for the little ones, it was a snug space for two adults side by side – however it truly captured the essence of a miniature train. As the train embarked on its journey, we were treated to a festive spectacle of Christmas lights, decorations, and themed installations along the way.
The highlight of the train ride was the Father Christmas experience. The train made a stop at the Christmas workshop, where we encountered cheerful elves, Mother Christma, and, of course, the big man himself. A mini show ensued, filled with singing, dancing, and comedic moments. Father Christmas started with a quick hello to all and then made his way through each carriage, greeting the children and presenting them with a special gift. This thoughtful approach was particularly effective for the little ones who sometimes feel overwhelmed or star-struck when meeting Father Christmas one-on-one.
Other Activities to Explore
After the train ride, we were dropped off in a different location and greeted by Snowberry the fairy who sent us off on a woodland walk where a plethora of Christmas-themed experiences awaited us. The activities were a great follow on from the train ride and included lots of interaction with their team. We did reindeer food making, letter writing to Father Christmas, and a Christmas fairy story show. The children were also thrilled to find a playground with slides, swings, and climbing frames, which are always popular.
Food & Services
When hunger struck, we discovered several food stands offering a range of options, such as pasties, pizzas, sandwiches, and kids’ meals. While the prices were not cheap, they were reasonable, and the quality of the food was good. Despite the bustling atmosphere, the friendly staff managed to serve everyone with a smile, even during peak times.
The toilet facilities, located in a big, clean cabin near the entrance, were well-maintained and easily accessible. Additionally, we couldn’t resist a visit to the gift shop at the end, brimming with toys of all sizes. It provided the perfect opportunity for our children to add a few more ideas to their Christmas lists!
Summary
Our visit to Audley End Miniature Railway Christmas Experience was filled with fun, laughter, and the Christmas spirit. It is an experience that will resonate particularly with children under 8 years old and with anyone who loves trains and railways. With its enchanting Christmas atmosphere, this adventure is a must-visit during the festive season. Remember to dress warmly, this fully outdoor event unfolds over 2-3 hours, so hats, scarves & gloves are recommended!
Visit the Audley Miniature Railway Experience website.
Tickets from £18:00pp
Travel Info:
You should plan to arrive by car to visit this attraction – there is free parking available onsite
We travelled from Chelmsford and the journey time by car was 60 minutes.
We think this experience is best suited to: Children under 8yrs old and railway enthusiasts of all ages.
