Looking for one of the best family days out in Essex this summer?  

Discover why thousands of families visit Audley End Enchanted Railway’s Summer Festival every year for magical adventures, outdoor play and unforgettable memories. 

Looking for the Perfect Summer Holiday Adventure? 

The summer holidays are all about spending quality time together, making memories and enjoying the great outdoors. But with six weeks to fill, finding activities that genuinely entertain the whole family isn’t always easy. 

If you’re searching for one of the best family events in Essex this summer, Audley End Enchanted Railway’s Summer Festival offers a full day of adventure, imagination and outdoor fun in the heart of ancient woodland. 

Running throughout the summer holidays, the festival combines the magic of our much-loved miniature railway with exciting activities, interactive experiences and plenty of opportunities for children to explore, play and let their imaginations run wild. 

Here are ten reasons why families return year after year. 

1. Ride Our Famous Enchanted Railway 

Every great adventure starts with a train journey. 

Climb aboard our beautifully maintained enchanted railway and travel through the ancient woodland, leaving everyday life behind as you head into a world of imagination and adventure. 

For many children, it’s the highlight of the day, and for parents, it’s a chance to slow down and enjoy the beautiful surroundings together.  Book Tickets for the Summer Festival

2. Explore the Magical Fairy & Elf Walk 

Once you’ve arrived, continue your adventure along our enchanting Fairy & Elf Walk. 

Keep your eyes peeled for fairy homes, woodland characters and hidden surprises tucked amongst the trees. It’s a wonderful way to encourage children to explore nature while letting their imaginations lead the way. 

No two children experience the trail in quite the same way, making it one of the most memorable parts of the visit. 

3. Race Around Railway Racers 

If your children love a little friendly competition, they’ll love Railway Racers. 

Children can jump onto pedal-powered go-karts and balance bikes before racing around the specially designed track. It’s a fantastic way to burn off energy while enjoying some outdoor fun. 

Whether they’re determined to cross the finish line first or simply enjoying the ride, Railway Racers quickly becomes a favourite stop during the day. 

4. FREE Face Painting 

What’s a summer festival without face painting? 

Visit the Craft Lodge where little ones can transform into their favourite characters. From butterflies and tigers to magical fairies and superheroes, it’s the perfect way to add an extra touch of magic to the day. 

Don’t forget your camera, these are the moments you’ll want to remember. 

5. Take to the Water with Woodland Punting 

Looking to make your visit even more special? 

Our woodland punting experience offers a peaceful journey along the water, surrounded by beautiful woodland scenery. 

It’s the perfect opportunity to slow the pace, enjoy the tranquillity of nature and experience Audley End Enchanted Railway from a completely different perspective. 

Punting is available as an optional add-on and is recommended to book in advance. 

Book tickets for Punting – A full admission ticket is acquired to gain access to the punts on-site.

6. Get Creative in the Craft Lodge 

The fun doesn’t stop outdoors. 

Children can enjoy hands-on creative activities in the Craft Lodge, taking part in seasonal crafts and making something special to take home as a reminder of their adventure. 

It’s a great activity for little imaginations and provides a welcome change of pace during the day. 

7. Discover the Magic Mirror Garden 

Hidden within the woodland, the Magic Mirror Garden is full of playful reflections and surprises. 

Children love exploring the area, spotting themselves from different angles and enjoying another magical corner of the attraction. 

It’s one of those little discoveries that often becomes a favourite memory of the day. 

8. Build Dens and Connect with Nature 

The Summer Festival isn’t just about entertainment; it’s about encouraging children to play outdoors. 

Families can build woodland dens together, explore the natural surroundings and enjoy the freedom of spending time outside away from screens. 

Sometimes, the simplest adventures become the most memorable.

9. Enjoy Magical Entertainment Throughout the Day 

Keep an eye on the stage and around the attraction, where magical entertainment helps bring the Summer Festival to life. 

Interactive performances and character appearances create moments of laughter, excitement and plenty of opportunities for children to join in the fun. 

Every visit feels slightly different, giving families another reason to come back. 

10. Spend a Full Day Making Memories Together 

Perhaps the biggest reason families love the Summer Festival is simple. 

There isn’t just one attraction. 

There isn’t just one activity. 

From train rides and woodland adventures to face painting, Railway Racers, punting, crafts and outdoor play, there’s something happening throughout the day. 

It’s a place where children can laugh, explore and imagine while parents enjoy watching those special moments unfold. 

Planning Your Visit 

📅 Summer Festival: Throughout the summer holidays 

📍 Location: Audley End Enchanted Railway, near Saffron Walden, Essex 

👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 Best for: Families with children aged approximately 2–10 

⏱️ Recommended visit: Around 4–6 hours 

🎟️ Included with admission: 

Miniature railway ride 

Fairy & Elf Walk 

Railway Racers 

Face painting 

Craft Lodge activities 

Magic Mirror Garden 

Woodland den building 

Outdoor play 

Magical entertainment 

Optional extra: 

Woodland Punting (advance booking recommended) 

Frequently Asked Questions 

Is the Summer Festival suitable for toddlers? 

Yes. The Summer Festival has been designed with younger families in mind and offers plenty of gentle activities, outdoor space and magical experiences suitable for little explorers. 

How long should we allow for our visit? 

Most families spend between four and six hours enjoying everything the attraction has to offer. 

Is punting included? 

Woodland punting is available as an optional add-on and can be booked alongside your visit, subject to availability. 

Should we book in advance? 

Yes. Summer holidays are one of our busiest times of the year, and booking online in advance is recommended to secure your preferred train departure time. 

Make This Summer One to Remember 

The best family memories aren’t made sitting indoors, they’re made exploring together, laughing together and discovering somewhere magical. 

Whether it’s racing around Railway Racers, enjoying face painting, gliding through the woodland on a punt or riding the miniature railway through the trees, Audley End Enchanted Railway’s Summer Festival is packed with moments your children will remember long after the holidays are over. 

If you’re looking for one of the best family events in Essex this summer, we’d love to welcome you. 

Book your Summer Festival adventure today and start making magical memories together. 

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