Come and visit Norfolk’s hidden railway gem

Was there for a private patty good food, a good price on drinks bottled and drafts, will be visiting at the bike Friday soon.

Went today, thursday, arrived at 3 - it was shut......

It was wonderful at the railway. The volunteers were really nice, both those in the restaurant and on the trains (even though the weather was awful!) The food was wonderful, really tasty, and I can thoroughly recommend the pizza! I was able to have a nice talk with the team on the train, who were really polite, friendly, and informative. I definitely recommend this for anyone with young kids or those with a passion for trains, or even for people without any outright interest

Called in for a bite to eat while cycling on mariots way. Food was tasty and well priced.

Approximately 10 miles from Norwich and 1 mile from Reepham, Whitwell Station opened on 1st July 1882 and was part of the Midland and Great Northern Joint Railway’s (M&GN) branch from the main line at Melton Constable to Norwich City. Later, the name of the station was changed to Whitwell and Reepham Railway Station as a result of struggling to compete from the larger Great Eastern Railway. Due to increasing losses, British Rail made the decision to close Whitwell and Reepham Station to passengers in 1959 and freight in 1964, although the track remained in place until 1985 to enable movement of concrete products to neighbouring Lenwade railway station. After the track was removed, the trackbed became part of Marriot’s Way (named after the engineer who built the line) in 1993 and is used by walkers, runners, and cyclists. Whitwell and Reepham Railway Station was reopened on 28th February 2009, 50 years to the day that it was closed to passengers. The Preservation’s continuing aim is to restore the Station to its former glory days of the 1930/40’s relaying track, acquiring rolling stock, and adding more items to their museum. The railway has 3 steam locos (2 in service), 6 diesel locos (3 in service), and a steam crane that is undergoing an overhaul. The track is approx. ¼ mile long, starts and finishes on Platform 3, and it takes around fifteen minutes. Numerous events are held throughout the year, Steam days are held on the first Sunday of each month or a Bank Holiday Sunday, with Diesel trains running all other weekend days or in the week by appointment. There are also Steam and Diesel Galas, 1940’s weekend, Father’s Day Steam, and in December Santa trains. There are also Driver Experiences, lasting 30 minutes on the footplate of either a steam or diesel engine where you are accompanied by an experienced driver. A certificate is included. Facilities on site include The Sidings, a café, bar, and restaurant. It is available to hire for birthday and kid parties, christenings, weddings, corporate days, etc. and can cater for up to 200 guests, 120 seated. There is an enclosed garden at the rear. There is also a museum dedicated to the Midland & Great Northern Railway. Adjacent to the railway is their 3.5-acre campsite with static caravans, luxury Shepherd’s Hut, and space for caravans, motorhomes, and tents. Facilities include a toilet and shower block, fresh water supply, and waste disposal point It is self-described as Norfolk’s Hidden Railway Gem, and although small compared to other local railways, it is well worth a visit.