Audley End Miniature Railway re-opened its doors on Saturday, 4th July 2020, following the COVID pandemic, with its Spectacular Summer Festival. We had to visit in week one!
This was our first time at this magical place! Oh, what a fantastic day! We thoroughly enjoyed ourselves to the core. I say our, my BIG self-included.
On arrival, we were given a timetabled schedule for our activities with a sheet for Avery to tick off, which he enjoyed drawing on. The schedule was to ensure we adhered to social distancing rules. However, they allowed you to return to some of the activities before the next group arrived or if the group wasn’t full.
We then hopped on the enchanting train ride through the Audley End Estate on the beautiful miniature steam railway, where our activities began. The fairies then welcomed us to their charming woodland homes. So so pretty!
Avery loved exploring the Fairy and Elf Walk and sat through some of the Shows and storytelling.
We visited just in time to enjoy the launch of their BRAND-NEW adventure Play Area! Avery played on this for hours- he wore himself out! The Play Area was definitely the highlight for him. We recommend a day here; your child(ren) will love it!!!
The important Bits
WHERE is it?
Audley End Miniature Railway is located in Saffron Walden, North-West Essex. It’s about an hour and 20 from Kent and just over an hour and a half from London.
WHEN is it open?
Daily, 10am – 5pm.
HOW much is it?
- £12.50 per person
- Children below 92 cm £6.25
- Infants (under 1) FREE
Booking is recommended, but tickets are available on the day.
Other information
They have a ‘We’re Good to Go’ certificate from Visit England
Social Distancing Measures are in place i.e., numbers have been reduced to half capacity
Hygiene Measures are also in place i.e., cashless, multiple hand sanitiser dispensers (although the majority were empty when we went) & outdoor washbasins around the site
Baby Changing Facility is available in the disabled toilet
Brand new outdoor café in the picnic field, BBQ serving delicious lamb burgers…yummy
FREE parking in the overflow car park, this is about 3 – 5mins from the actual attraction, I would recommend getting there at least 20 mins before your slot to ensure you have ample time
Pushchair friendly. From the main entrance to the gardens, there is level access. Some of the Fairy and Elf Walk trail has a loose surface. When it comes to boarding the train you simply park your buggy at the station, the staff will then help you ring it to the beginning of the Enchanted Fairy and Elf Walk
Would we come back?
Definitely!! It must be special at Christmas, and I’m looking forward to it!!!
