A beautiful steam train takes passengers between two of the UK’s best towns in a journey that goes “back in time”. North Norfolk Railway, also known as the Poppy Line, runs from Sheringham to Holt and claims to be “East Anglia’s premier heritage railway”.
At one end of the line is Sheringham, a traditional seaside town with shingle beaches, shops and restaurants. The station has a cafe and a souvenir shop. Sheringham’s Blue Flag beach is family friendly offers scenic walks along the promenade, which houses a row of colourful beach huts – some of which you can hire.
On the other is Holt, a Georgian market town with independent shops, tea rooms and galleries. The station has a cafe, a souvenir shop, a small museum and a model railway. In the town itself, visit the iconic Byford’s tea room and wander through the pretty rows of cottages.
Trains are operated almost entirely by volunteers. The railway was opened in 1884 and was taken over by a preservation society after its closure in 1964.
North Norfolk Railway runs a number of special events throughout the year including visiting trains, half-term journeys, vintage weeks, 1940s weekends, Halloween activities and three Christmas rides.
There are also journeys that offer cream tea, murder mysteries, evening meals like sausage and mash, Sunday lunches and more.
A favourite is the fish and chip train, called the Norfolk Norfolk Fryer, where passengers can enjoy the national favourite while looking out over the countryside.
Travellers get a fish and chip meal from one of Sheringham’s top chippies and a tub of locally-made ice cream. There is also a bar onboard.
Visitors can also have the unique adventure of driving the steam train or a diesel train as well as operating the signals, with experiences on offer.
Tripadvisor reviewers have said that the railway is “a fabulous place for a good dose of nostalgia” and offers “wonderful coastal views”.
Visitors also said it was a “great day out” and the journey made them feel like they had “gone back in time”.
More information about tickets and special events is available on the North Norfolk Railway website. Advanced booking is recommended and required for special events.