The National Railway Museum in York is an absolute must for anyone that is fanatic about trains.
It is home to some of the most magnificent steam trains the world has even produced ranging from the Flying Scotsman to Mallard. It is a great day out for the family with the kids being able to see the engines that once dominated the UK's railway networks and the best thing is that it is completely free.
As the country enters autumn and heads towards Christmas the National Railway Museum is putting on a series of events. There are a range of things to do during the half term which will help keep youngsters entertained. Here is a selection of the events that is going on in the coming weeks at one of the UK's most loved attraction.
Mallard 75: Autumn Great Gathering – October 26th to November 11th 2013
2013 represents the 75th anniversary of Mallard breaking the steam locomotive world speed record. On July 3rd 1938, the famous engine smashed its way into the history books by reaching 126mph at Stoke Bank. To commemorate this special milestone the National Railway Museum has been putting on a series of special.
In the coming the site will be holding the Autumn Great Gathering in York where all of the remaining models will be brought together. Mallard will be reunited with its surviving sisters Sir Nigel Gresley. Dwight D Eisenhower, Union of South Africa, Bittern and Dominion of Canada. They will all be situated around the turntable in the Great Hall.
The event runs until November 11th when Sir Nigel Gresley, Union of South Africa and Bittern will be returned to their owners but the other locomotives will be on display until late January/early February 2014.
Locos in a Different Light – October 30th to November 2nd 2013
Part of the Illuminating York 2013 celebration, Locos in a Different Light is an opportunity for people to see the National Railway Museum's collection of steam trains in a way they have never known before.
The competition, held in the Great Hall, will see lighting students put on a series of shows which will encompass the Mallard collection as well as a number of other engines. The fun kicks off at 18:30 GMT each evening and is an unforgettable experience for all the family to enjoy.
Admission is free.
Santa's Steam Adventure – November 29th to December 24th 2013
Christmas wouldn't be Christmas without a visit from the big man himself – Father Christmas. The National Railway Museum will be putting on its very own Santa's Steam Adventure, ideal for families with young children.
It begins in the Station Hall which is transformed into Santa's mail depot complete with decorations, present and toys. The kids will have the opportunity to help sort Santa's letters before its all aboard the festive carriage pulled by the museum's very special train – 'Teddy'.
Once en route there will be storytelling and then the highlight will be receiving a present from Santa at the end.
Trains run throughout the day and people can book now.
Prices are £11.50 for children, £7.50 for adults and £3 for under one's.