Families across Essex are in for a treat this October half term, with two exciting special themed train trips offering affordable, fun days out.
During half term, the Essex and South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership (CRP), in partnership with Greater Anglia, will host a dinosaur themed train on 28 October and a spooktacular ‘Halloween Train’ on 31 October.
The dinosaur themed train supports Braintree Museum’s Big Dino Day, which is back following the roaring success of its Extinction dinosaur exhibition earlier this year.
Families are invited to hop on a special dino-themed train from Witham to Braintree at 10.34 on 28 October. Children will receive goodie bags before meeting a friendly dinosaur who will lead them on a short, five-minute walk to the museum.
Once there, families who show their train ticket will receive half-price general admission or 10% off an annual family pass, making it a great value day out. Return travel can be taken on any train later in the day, giving families plenty of time to explore.
Then on 31 October, the Halloween Train will take little monsters and ghouls on a fun Halloween-themed train ride from Manningtree to Harwich Town.
The spooky special departs Manningtree at 4:00pm, arriving at Harwich Town at 4:22pm, with a return trip at 4:48pm.
A specially decorated carriage will set the mood, and children will receive Halloween-themed goodie bags. A costume competition will take place on board, with prizes for the most creative homemade costumes in different age categories – with bonus points for those using recycled materials.
To book visit www.esscrp.org.uk/events.
Jane Stewart, Essex and South Suffolk CRP officer, said:
“Train journeys are a fantastic way for families to spend time together – they’re relaxing, fun, and children absolutely love them. These special half term events are all about making rail travel a joyful and memorable experience. It’s a great-value option for keeping the kids entertained during the school holidays.”
Alan Neville, Customer and Community Engagement Manager for Greater Anglia, added:
“We’re proud to work with the Essex and South Suffolk CRP to support these brilliant community events. It’s a great way to encourage people to discover the joys of rail travel and explore all that Essex has to offer in a sustainable and enjoyable way.”
The Essex & South Suffolk Community Rail Partnership aims to encourage and promote use of the six rail branch lines in Essex and supports local projects developed in partnership with community groups, businesses, and Greater Anglia.
Their focus is on projects that promote the stations and encourage rail travel through engagement, economic growth and sustainable active travel for all.
