IF you’re a parent who’s ever struggled to entertain a child on a long train journey in the UK, you might want to read about the family-friendly train launching in February.
Passengers will be able to board the half-term attraction in Pickering, before going on a family-friendly trip to Grosmont.
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The No. 70000 Britannia locomotive can normally be seen hauling services and goods along the train line.
The green locomotive rose to fame in 1952, when it was used to haul King George VI’s funeral train from King’s Lynn to London.
But in the February half-term holidays, families will be able to board the iconic locomotive to go on a more leisurely journey.
The services will be operated by North Yorkshire Moors Railway, with two daily trains running between February 10 to February 18, 2024.
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During the February half term, two daily services will depart from Pickering train station at 11am and 2pm.
Passengers will board the No. 70000 Britannia, an iconic locomotive train, which will be filled with child-friendly activities.
On board the train, families will be able to take part in a range of activities, including activity sheets with coloured pencils.
The craft sessions are designed to encourage children to “unleash their artistic side” by creating artwork inspired by their train journey.
Meanwhile, a fairytale-themed show, suitable for two to seven-year-olds, will take place inside a classroom at Pickering Station.
The interactive show has been produced alongside the Storycraft Theatre, and it will take place on February 13, 2024.
Families will also be able to witness signal box demonstrations.
Laura Strangeway, Acting CEO, said: “We’re so excited to open a little earlier next year, for these incredible special services featuring the iconic Britannia.
“This is a fantastic opportunity for enthusiasts but also a great way for families to spend a half-term day out together, onboard our heritage railway.”
Tickets for full-paying adults cost £45, while children aged 15 and under go free.
Alternatively, member rates are also available.
To book tickets visit the North Yorkshire Moors Railway website, here.
While train journeys across the UK aren’t always the most children-friendly, trains across Europe have entire play areas for children.
For example, on inter-city trains across Finland, parents and guardians can often find a children’s play area.
The space is typically located on a service carriage, and it will include features like a library, a slide, and a wooden toy train that children can climb on.
There are other features too, including a wooden bead maze, funky mirrors, and safety gates to keep younger passengers safe.
Meanwhile, you can ride a London tube train with sea views on this British island.
And these are some of the most beautiful railway journeys in the UK.
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