South East - Hampshire

Let the train take the strain as you sit back, relax and travel through the heart of the English countryside. Whether you are taking a trip down memory lane or creating new ones, it’s the perfect way to unwind and experience the nostalgic sights, sounds and smells of steam travel from a bygone age.

Running along the edge of the South Downs National Park in Hampshire, this heritage steam railway starts in New Alresford, just 7 miles from the ancient city of Winchester and famous for its clear chalk streams and watercress farms. Treat your group to a single or return trip back in time as you travel over the ten mile line. Groups can enjoy the wonderful experience of a delicious lunch or afternoon cream tea whilst travelling by steam train. New for 2015, book an onboard leisure learning activity with memory prompts to get your group chatting and sharing memories of the days of steam travel, sitting on your case on a packed holiday train or your days as a train spotter!

As the Watercress Line celebrates its 150th anniversary, your group can book a tour to see behind the scenes in the engineering workshops, where the locomotives and carriages are skilfully restored to their full glory. Or you may wish to combine your visit with another local attraction; spend the morning at nearby Jane Austen's House Museum, Milestones Museum or the Basingstoke Canal and then join this leading heritage railway in the afternoon.

Group bookings can be made throughout the operating calendar with discounted fares for 15+ and 30+ available on standard travel days. To find out more visit www.watercressline.co.uk