Downton

I booked tickets to take mum on a steam train on the Bluebell Railway today and it really is like stepping back in time when you arrive at Sheffield Park Station, which has been restored to the Brighton era of the 1880's.

We boarded the train and had our own carriage while we chuffed through the countryside stopping at Horsted Keynes which is probably more better known as Downton in Downton Abbey - I've added some extra photos of 'Downton' if you're interested.

We then stopped at Kingscote and finally East Grinstead which is the end of the line.  They uncoupled the engine and reconnected it to the other end of the train, and then we chugged back to Sheffield Park.  Once back, we went down the road to Sheffield Park and Gardens for lunch and a stroll.

It's been a lovely day which was finished off with fish and chips for mum and an Indian for me.   Meanwhile, Alan's driving back from up North where he's been for a couple of days to see his parents, with a quick visit to Rachel and the girls tonight before he set off. Hopefully the weather and the traffic will be ok and he won't be home too late!  Funnily enough, he's just called and he's on the M40, the weather's ok and so is the traffic so he should be home about 11.15pm.

Anyway, it's Friday, have a great weekend!

Weather update - Storm Bronagh seemed to pass by last night without causing any problems which is more than can be said for other parts of the country.  It's been quite breezy today and sunny, but it's been a little cooler.  Apparently Storm Collam is due on Sunday though so let's hope he misses us too!