THERE'S something magical about standing on a bridge while a steam train whooshes underneath.
The smell, the noise, the steam - it's a treat for the senses.
Top that off with it being a full-sized Thomas the Tank Engine, in his all his brightly-coloured blue glory, then this day is a sure-fire hit for any small children.
And that's before we have even come to the best part - actually taking a trip on Thomas.
The popular Day Out With Thomas returned to the Watercress Line in Hampshire on Saturday, May 28 and is back for the entire half-term, wrapping up on June 5.
The historic railway, which is marvellous enough without Thomas, has truly opened its doors to kids, and everything at Ropley station is designed to capture and enthral miniature train buffs.
Ticket prices include a ride on Thomas, to Alresford and back, and also a ride on one of the other trains to Alton and back.
There's also a show, whereby Rusty and Dusty manoeuvre full-size engines with singing and of course an appearance from Sir Topham Hat (formerly known as the Fat Controller).
There are vintage fairground rides to keep the kids occupied while you tackle the ice-cream queue (well it wouldn't be a family day out without a 99 would it?) and there's a nice train-themed play park, plus picnic areas to enjoy.
There's colouring, activities and face-painting and the kids are given a nice activity pack and book to keep them amused.
Before you leave, don't forget to check out the miniature railway, just to make sure you really do fill your train quota.
This is a lovely day out, perfect for families, and a nice all-weather way to spend some quality time together.
Parking at Ropley is plentiful and free, pack a picnic to make the most of the day. It's easy to make it a full day out, with the station opening at 9.30am and the first Thomas train departing at 9.50am. Trains also run all day with the last Thomas train departing at 3.20pm. Activities run until 4.30pm.
If you miss it this time, don't fret, as it will be back in the summer, from August 6 to 14.
Adult tickets are £21, child £15, with under twos free. Family tickets (two adult and two children) are £65.
Go to watercressline.co.uk/day-out-with-thomas/
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