All aboard for Mother’s Day weekend and Easter holidays at Audley End Miniature Railway

There may not be much sign of spring yet, but behind the scenes at Audley End Miniature Railway, preparations are well under way.

The popular attraction opposite Audley End House and Gardens, near Saffron Walden, launches its spring timetable with a Mother’s Day weekend on March 29-30, when mums and grandmothers can visit for free.

And it is gearing up for Easter events in April, with the theme this year being Springtime on the Farm.

For Mother’s Day, families can enjoy a train ride through the daffodil-covered woodland to experience the fresh air and first signs of spring.

The fairy and elf walks will be open and little ones can let off steam in the children’s adventure playground. The Woodland Café will be open.

Ticket prices are – mothers and grandmothers free, adults and children over 92cm £14.25, children under 92cm £7.15, children under one free. The ticket price includes the train ride, fairy and elf walks and adventure play area.

For Easter, hop aboard the Easter special train with seasonal surprises along the way from Saturday April 5 to Easter Monday on April 21.

Said a spokesperson: “Our friendly farmer will welcome you on board before you head into our woods to spot egg-citing Easter scenes throughout the forest.

“You’ll be entertained by ‘Shearlock Holmes’, the world’s greatest sheep detective, who has teamed up with the Easter Bunny and farmyard animals to help solve the mystery of the missing eggs.

“Once the case is cracked, Little Bo Peep will guide you back to the Woodland Station and invite you to stroll through the Fulfen Forest before arriving at the potting shed. Here, with the help of our friendly farmers, you will plant your own carrot seeds to take home and nurture into a fully grown delicious carrot.”

Interactive games and storytelling will be held throughout the day.