Children are sure to be enthralled when they visit The Watercress Line during the May half-term, especially as it will mark the only visit to the line this year by Thomas the Tank Engine.
The famous blue engine will be appearing in his Day Out With Thomas: The Bubble Tour at the heritage railway from Saturday, 25 May to Sunday, 2 June.
Young visitors can experience the thrill of meeting Sir Topham Hatt and Sodor Station Sweepers Rusty & Dusty at Ropley station before riding behind Thomas along the scenic route of The Watercress Line.
Day Out With Thomas: The Bubble Tour introduces two brand-new Rusty & Dusty outdoor entertainment shows for 2024.
As well as featuring Sir Topham Hatt, Percy, Diesel, and Toad, Terence the Tractor will be putting in a special appearance.
Thomas will be specially decorated with bubbles for the show and Thomas-themed selfie spots will be marked where young fans can have their photo taken close up.
In the play pod zones at both Ropley and Alton, there will be plenty of fun to enjoy, with Thomas & FriendsTM activities and charming story-time sessions, whilst every child will receive Thomas giveaways.
Away from Thomas, the Watercress Line's miniature railway will be open where visitors can take unlimited rides, and there will also be a vintage fairground offering children's rides.
Refreshments will be available at Ropley's T-Junction, and a variety of food and drink stalls, or visitors can bring their own picnic and enjoy it at the dedicated picnic area overlooking the beautiful South Downs.
Further information about this special Thomas event and booking details can be found by clicking here to visit their website.
The railway's name The Watercress Line comes from when it played an important role in transporting watercress to London in the early 20th century.
It is Hampshire's only standard gauge heritage railway, running for ten miles through the South Downs National Park between Alton and Alresford.
Thirty staff, supported by over 450 dedicated volunteers, keep the railway running and maintaining its fleet of steam and diesel locomotives, rolling stock and infrastructure.
Although this will be the only visit to the line this year by Thomas, he has previously been at The Watercress Line, most notably during the late-May Bank Holiday in 2021.
There's so much fun to be had with a Day Out With Thomas: The Bubble Tour this May half-term. It will be the only appearance of Thomas & FriendsTM this year, so make sure you get your tickets in good time to enjoy a fabulous day out!
Your ticket gives you access to the railway for the whole day, so come early for the brilliant entertainment and activities on offer at Ropley. Don t forget to book your ride with Thomas when you purchase your tickets online.
Rebecca Dalley, The Watercress Line CEO
