Welcome to the Avon Valley Railway

IT'S TIME FOR 'THOMAS' - SOON! 'Thomas the Tank Engine' and his friends will soon be taking over the Railway for a fun filled weekend of activities. He'll be with us at the Avon Valley Railway on Saturday and Sunday 10th and 11th May, along with 'Sir Topham Hatt, the Fat Controller', 'Toad', 'The Troublesome Trucks' and 'Bulgy the Bus'. There's also face painting, a bouncy slide, fairground rides, Punch and Judy and Magic shows, miniature railway, Thomas video shows and a competiton to win wonderful prizes kindly donated by the Bristol Hippodrome. Seats are selling fast, so it's best to purchase your seats in advance. You can book online via the link on our DAY OUT WITH THOMAS page or call us on 03450 772220. However, if you can't wait until then there's always something happening every weekend. So have a look at our timetable to see what's going on and pop along to Bristol and Bath's favourite steam railway. The Avon Valley Railway is more than just a train ride, offering a whole new experience for some or a nostalgic memory for others. It's a real treat for the whole family! The children will love a DAY OUT WITH THOMAS in May and October, whilst FATHER CHRISTMAS visits us during December. And why not treat them to a BIRTHDAY PARTY on the train, available on most days when trains are running. Dads can learn how to DRIVE A STEAM ENGINE or join us for our REAL ALE FESTIVAL in June each year. There's also a chance to admire a wide selection of VINTAGE BUSES at our August Bus Rally. Mums aren't left out. Relax and enjoy either a TWO COURSE or a THREE COURSE MEAL on board one of our Luncheon Dining Trains, or test your investigative skills on one of our popular MURDER MYSTERY events. The AVR now offers a six mile return train ride along the former Mangotsfield to Bath Green Park branch of the old Midland Railway, and the chance to see the River Avon valley from an aspect that cars cannot reach. Based at Bitton Station, midway between Bristol and Bath, this former Midland Railway station has been painstakingly restored from a derelict state to provide visitors with refreshment and toilet facilities, a railway shop, a pleasant garden, and outdoor seating.

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Our 'Avon Riverside' platform, in the heart of the Avon Valley, offers passengers the opportunity to enjoy the many attractions in the area - boat trips, riverside pubs, picnic area, and walks in the beautiful surrounding countryside. All of this information is contained in our 2007 colour brochure. Why not email or call us to obtain a copy - details of how to do this are provided on the 'contact us' page. In the long term we hope to be able to extend the line to the outskirts of Bath, providing a scenic train ride not just into, but through, the Avon Valley.

If you have any queries regarding the Avon Valley Railway's services or events, please email us. If you`re already a member, or you're wondering what goes on 'behind the scenes' at the AVR, why not check out our special 'News' button on the left hand toolbar. We appreciate your comments and feedback, so if you have anything to tell us about this website, please let us know. Most of all, why not come and visit us in person - you will find a warm welcome and a great day out waiting for you!

last updated: david cole, Thu 17th Apr 2008