VISITORS to Hollycombe today (Saturday) and tomorrow (Sunday) will be able to enjoy walks through the grounds, which will be looking at their spring best.
Carpets of bluebells – which can also be enjoyed from Hollycombe’s Quarry Railway – and early flowering rhododendrons and azaleas will light up the woodland pathways.
“The combined aroma of the bluebells and the steam is intoxicating,” said Hollycombe trustee Brian Gooding. “I always want to drive the railway this weekend.”
After passing through the Bluebell Woods the Quarry train will pause to allow visitors to admire the views over the South Downs, made even more spectacular due to the work of Hollycombe’s team of volunteers, who removed hundreds of view-obscuring saplings over the winter. Adding to the spectacle will be a display of around 35 miniature traction engines, from two inch to six inch scale, displayed by the West Surrey Model Traction Engine Club for the annual Steam in Miniature Weekend.
“The event is a great one for the family,” said Brian. “The miniature steam engine owners take pride in their vehicles and love to explain how they work. Our Victorian and Edwardian fairground will be open, as will our railways, offering a real three-generation visit experience.”