Yeovil Railway Centre — Attraction in Barwick

Santa Special - Disappointment. We came to join some local family who booked us tickets to the 'Santa Special', without us checking the details beforehand. On arrival, driving past a handful of questionably painted Christmas plaques, we parked in what looked like a disused industrial area, next to the normal rail lines. A set up nativity scene had black bin bags as a "background". The steam train ride consisted of a few hundred yards back and forth a few times (our 5 year old was very confused and got annoyed) and a member of staff with an elf puppet which looked quite promising at first, spent their time telling us about upcoming events in August rather than trying to create any sort of festive atmosphere or making the kids believe they had anything to do with Santa or the set up. After the ride, we went inside of some sort of building which was decorated a bit haphazardly but had a snow and bubble machine to create some fun for the kids but it didn't really land. Santa was ok and the presents given out not bad and were appropriate to the ages, but the gent checking admission did very obviously not want to be there and looked cross and disengaged. The model Railway next door was personally the best part of the trip. Overall, the idea might be there but the execution, environment and organisation is very much lacking and has left a sad taste for us on the eve of...

We did a driver's experience day today, and my dad absolutely loved it! The guys were so friendly, welcoming and attentive to dad, and us as guests. They really went above and beyond, giving us full access to areas not publicly open, like service yard, turn table and spots for good photographs! Roger was really patient and kind when teaching, and dad got full hands on, completely individual experience for a whole 3hours. Then a lovely open day with a small shop, museum and cafe all run by friendly volunteers, always ready with a cuppa! A wonderful and fun day, I would really recommend this train driving experience, and definitely a day to remember. Thank you to all the volunteers for making it so...

We've visited three times, all in December, for the Santa Special 🎅 Such a sweet Santa train experience. Lovely, friendly ladies and gentlemen run these events. It's ever so quaint, their displays and festive boards and signs hold a nostalgic feeling. There's a room with the model railway that's really great for young and old. The main room after the train ride house's a play/dance area, festive displays, lights, music, raffle, refreshment area and, of course, Santa's grotto! Our two are nearly 8 and 10, they loved it all including the falling snow and snowballs! We won a prize in the raffle after our cuppa and mince pie...