CATEGORY · FRESH AIR INCLUDED

Model Villages & Miniature Railways in Nottingham

Nottingham's own Great Central Railway is the one to know, free to get in with steam trains, old buses and a dog-friendly café on a flat 25-acre site that buggies handle easily. Beyond the city it is mostly volunteer-run miniature lines: Melton Mowbray Miniature Railway runs weekend rides in Wilton Park from about £2, and out at Kings Clipstone the Sherwood Forest Railway mixes a steam train through the cuttings with play areas, from £4. For toddlers, Famous Trains Model Railway in Derby is an easy indoor option at £1.50 a child, £7 for a family ticket, watching the layout loop round in Markeaton Park. Abbey Park in Leicester is cheaper still at £1.50 but only runs selected Sundays and Bank Holidays, so check which weekend you are going. Older children who fancy real engines should head to Barrow Hill Roundhouse in Chesterfield, a longer trip out but worth it for the turntable and the café when it rains. Matlock Boats and Train adds a £6 motorboat to its £1 train ride, no booking needed.

✓ 8 places✦ 2 free to visit