Wed. Dec 4th, 2024

The Watercress Line is delighted to announce an exciting, new event this winter: Steam Illuminations.

Steam Illuminations is a unique, world-first digital LED train which creates an incredible light show both on and in the steam train. Consisting of thousands of fully controllable colour mixing LED lights and LED wristbands. The lights are programmed to perform a wonderful light show, consisting of different colours and flashing patterns that are a marvel to see. Everyone is given an LED wristband to wear on the train to be part of the show and can take them home after the event.

The event will start on the 14th November and run through to the 3rd January. Trains will depart from either Alresford or Alton and complete a round trip, back to the starting station.

Tickets will need to be booked in advance.

For more details and to book, click here: https://bit.ly/35WWoIR

General manager Simon Baggott said, “We are delighted to be bringing this unique event to the Watercress Line. It’s a wonderful experience the whole family can enjoy together and is sure to be an event to remember!”

Whatever the time of year, there is always much to see and do at the Watercress Line.

  • Take a ride on our trains leaving from either Alresford or Alton
  • Live through the full glamour of steam travel with our themed experiences
  • Explore our four stations and heritage signal boxes
  • See preservation in action in our engineering sheds
  • Dine at our West Country Buffet or watch the trains go by from our picnic areas
  • Walk in Harry Potter’s footsteps on the foot bridge where he received his Hogwarts Express ticket
  • Ride our miniature railway through the countryside at Ropley
  • Shop in our gift shop in the Old Goods Shed for all your gifts, books and toys

Or use the stations as starting points for wonderful walks in the heart of the Hampshire countryside

Take a look at our Map of the Watercress Line to help you plan your visit and our Timetable and Prices for more information.

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By Penny McCarthy

Penny McCarthy is a seasoned entrepreneur and co-founder of Parents News UK, a pioneering publication launched in 1993 to serve the needs of busy parents in Southwest London. Alongside her husband, Fergus McCarthy, Penny played a crucial role in the rapid expansion of the printed edition, which grew from a local startup to a widely circulated monthly publication with a reach of 192,000 copies across Kent, South London, and beyond. Under Penny’s leadership, Parents News quickly became a trusted resource for families, providing valuable information on education, entertainment, sports, and family-friendly events. Her vision helped the publication extend its influence with franchises in Northern Ireland and Cornwall, catering to a growing demand for accessible, family-oriented content. In 1997, recognising the importance of digital media, Penny spearheaded the launch of Parents News UK Online. The website initially mirrored the content of the printed editions and has since evolved into a comprehensive online resource for parents, achieving significant popularity with up to 700 daily hits. In 2017, the publication transitioned fully to an online platform, continuing to inform and engage families across the UK. Today, Penny remains deeply involved in the ongoing success of Parents News UK, focusing on innovative advertising opportunities and future growth plans. Her dedication to supporting families through accessible and practical content has made Parents News a cherished name in households across the country.

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