The weather is slowly starting to warm up as we emerge from winter and families are always looking for fun days out to spend time together.
Often described as a "hidden gem", including by the website Visit Nottinghamshire, a Nottingham railway attraction could just be the ticket for many looking to enjoy time out.
Formerly known as GCRN - The Great Central Railway - Nottingham, Nottingham Heritage Railway on Mere Way in Ruddington now offers almost six miles of heritage railway running through the beautiful scenery of South Nottinghamshire and North-West Leicestershire.
Heritage Steam & Diesel services re-create the experience of train travel from when it was more than just a way to travel from one place to another.
Entirely staffed by volunteers, all income is used to preserve railway & transport heritage for future generations. The NHR is a great experience for all the family.
The NHR says on its website: "We are currently not running any rail services at this time.
"However, the N.S.M.E.E Miniature Railway is open and carrying passengers on most days when the site is open to the public."
There's plenty to see and do at the Ruddington base, so they aren't just a train ride - be sure to make time to see all their attractions and facilities.
And next to the site is Rushcliffe Country Park in which the main station and facilities at Ruddington are located.
The park features an excellent children's play area and a kiosk selling teas, coffees and ice creams. Ruddington village Centre (approx a 20 minute walk from Ruddington station) has pubs and shops, as well as a fish & chip shop.
The south edge of the country park provides access to Asher Lane, and thence to an extensive network of footpaths criss-crossing Gotham Moor and the railway.
More details on the NHR can be found here
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