England: Santa and the Bluebell Railway

Today, it was Cheerios to our cozy B and B in Bognor Regis and back onto the open road. At least as open a road as England has. I had really awesome memories of the Bluebell Railway from my English childhood and thought it would be a fabulous idea to introduce my own girls to it. Off the wheels on the car went, and while I think about it, I may as well confess that I seem to have lost the keys to the B and B's front door. We drove through the twisty roads of west Sussex and got lost once along the way. I think the most fascinating thing about the drive was the pheasants that traipsed happily across the way. Home girls played their ds games, the drive was wasted on them.

So, after arrival at the railway, you had to follow the waving arms of the traffic police to find the car park.Then, a bus takes you to the depot where they had an amazing merry go round. The girls hopped on the suspended swing and followed the ride with a lucky dip gift. It was a great start. We found the station and met the engines. Bluebell is still a favorite. The whistles blew and the trains shunted. Steam whispered across the bridge and around the thrilled faces of the kids. Carolers sang Victorian tunes, while parents ran herd on their wild broods. At last it was our turn.

We boarded the train and rolled out. It was a short trip from Sheffield station to Horsted Keynes. The best part was when Father Christmas stopped by to treat the children with gift. On arrival, we found sausage rolls and hot chocolate, with Victorian games and a visit with Santa. We had 45 minutes, which was not nearly long enough, before heading back. It started raining then, so we hit the gift shop and then the road.

The experience was great for younger children. I am not sure how much older ones get from it. I would hesitate to do it again just for the sheer price of a short stay but, the trains are worth it. Train spotting anyone?

Next stop, Bournemouth. So, we drove and found the Carleton Hotel. This place is lovely. We have a full bathroom, full kitchen so I can finally feed the family on healthy food, and a separate bedroom. It is huge. The staff were very friendly and it is really close to downtown. This was worth the points. My favorite thing is the heated towel rack. Yes, it should be a good couple of days. Now, if only my cousins were about...lol. They are in hiding.
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