The surprisingly unexpected trip to Bournemouth was amazing. The weather decided to behave and produced 28 degree C. That combined with the warm sea, sun shining, sandy beaches and hotel right on the cliff overlooking the English Channel was just what GP would prescribed to two workaholic parents of 20 month-old toddler...
And while I am selecting a few photos to scare the hell out of you before you decide to spend holiday at home (provided you live in the UK), or even worse - come down here from abroad, here is a small snapshot of our little one's first proper railway experience.
Located just 4 miles from Wareham, the Swanage Railway runs through the heart of the Isle of Purbeck from Norden to the coast of Swanage. Original track was closed 87 years since opening in 1972,when British Rail lifted the track. Subsequently the line was painstakingly rebuilt by volunteers so now steam trains operate over six miles in the beautiful Dorset countryside.
On of the main local attractions in the area (well, other than lovely sandy beaches) is Corfe Castle, which is perhaps the most famous castle ruins in Southern England. Just be mindful, that the train is not going to bring you to the top.
If you are up to visit the area, the best date to go would be 7-9 September when all Swanage-based locomotives will be in steam with special workings and a rally of vintage transport at Harmans Cross.
