Heritage railways are brilliant for a family and dog day out. I mean, who doesn't love a steam train?  And the station stoo are packed with scenes from the elegant past so it feels as if you're taking part in a period drama.

We visited the East Anglian Railway Museum with the family, and to give the pup her first experience of everything rail and steam. Because of lockdowns neither toddlers nor pup had encountered steam locos before and we wanted to take things gently.

The set up at East Anglia is a lot more than a fun ride on a steam train. The museum has stuff you can be very hands-on with, including signal boxes where you can actually pull the levers! They also have a booklet and map for kids to navigate their own way around, and designated play areas based around a train and a London bus.  The site is around 10 acres so there's a spacious feel to everything and even nervous dogs can find plenty of open space to relax.

When you've worked up an appetite, check out the cafe on Platform 2.  It's open the same days as the museum and they do a divine cream tea as well as more sensible savoury options and pots of tea.

Steam Days at the East Anglian museum are outstanding value and just the ticket for all aspiring train drivers.  A firm favourite with families, you can visit the Museum and have a ride in vintage wagons or carriages pulled by one of the restored steam engines. And then, for just an extra £15 you can actually drive a diesel engine on a safe piece of track.  

Visitor information

The East Anglian Railway Museum is at Chappel and Wakes Colne Station, Station Road, Wakes Colne, Essex  CO6 2DS

To see the timetable for Steam Days, the Museum and cafe opening times, and full visitor information and booking details please check their website East Anglian Railway Museum