Our ‘Try a Train’ programme provides an ideal opportunity for those who lack confidence travelling by train to visit our stations and to experience a train journey. The trips are delivered jointly by Southeast Communities Rail Partnership and GWR. If your school or college’s nearest station is on the North Downs Line we can offer you free workshops and station visits. The North Downs Line runs from Reading through Winnersh, Wokingham, Crowthorne, Sandhurst, Blackwater, Farnborough North, North Camp, Ash, Wanborough, Guildford, Shalford, Chilworth, Gomshall, Dorking West, Dorking Deepdene, Betchworth, Reigate, Redhill and Gatwick Airport.
The Try a Train programme is for young people (aged up to 25 years) who have any form of disability or access needs who wish to build their confidence when travelling. The trips are also available to those who may encounter other barriers to travelling e.g. senior citizens, non-English speakers, low income families.
During the experience, we will tailor the trip to your group’s specific needs and interests.
A typical ‘Try a Train’ experience will consist of:
• Introduction to the station layout including car parking, onward travel and various station facilities
• Buying a ticket including ticket office, ticket machines and smart cards
• Meet the local station manager and station teams
• A chance to try an accompanied train trip to an interesting destination
By the end of the trip your group will have experienced a complete journey that will encourage further travel with confidence, without any anxieties or concerns. Group sizes are kept small, usually 5 to 12 participants, including any carers.
We’ve made a short film to show your students what it’s like travelling on the train today. It’s 5 minutes long. Click here for the film.
To make a booking please contact:
Maddy Mills (Education Officer)
maddy@southeastcrp.org / 07852 221274
