Mid Norfolk Railway

Dereham station is the Railway's headquarters and was the subject of a European Objective 2 grant, which has seen the fine Victorian railway station restored to the way it would have looked in the late 1950s when Dereham was still an important railway junction. The work includes a period ticket office, tearoom, souvenir shop and displays of local railway artefacts. At Wymondham, our station is located close to the beautiful Abbey Church and adjacent to the river Tiffey. The main line station is a 20 minute walk away and is home to the 'Brief Encounter' restaurant and excellent displays of local railwayana. Wymondham itself has a number of beautifully preserved historic buildings including the timber framed Market Cross and the Green Dragon Inn. The excellent town museum is housed at the Bridewell, a former gaol. The train ride offers extensive views of the surrounding countryside. Wild flowers are in abundance in the spring. In October and November, our trains are ideal for enjoying the autumn 'tints'. Deer and owls are seen throughout the year and the fishing lakes at Whinbugh and Thuxton provide an ideal habitat for swans and geese. The stations at Yaxham, Thuxton, Hardingham and Kimberley (all privately owned), are all being tastefully restored and retain many original features. Most of our services are operated using heritage diesel railcars and locomotives although steam services now operate in certain periods of the year. The railway is entirely staffed by volunteers who will be happy to answer any questions you may have about the line during your visit. Train services operate most weekends from March to December and on Wednesdays during the summer months. The Railway also hosts a number of special events to suit all ages and interests from a Model Rail Exhibition and a series of themed Transport days to Halloween and Santa specials. For train times ring 01362 690633 or 01362 851723 (talking timetable) or visit our website www.mnr.org.uk.