Norfolk and Norwich Group of Advanced Motorists
Registered Charity Number 1051282. Affiliated to the Institute of Advanced Motorists Ltd.
The unseasonably warm weather for early April enticed 14 riders to turn out for a run to the Bure Valley Railway in Aylsham. Splitting into 3 groups led by myself, Ian C and Steve C we took a convoluted route of around 50 miles, or 70 miles if you were with Steve’s group The benefit of no rain for nearly a month was apparent as the roads were thoroughly dry including any farming or roadside detritus that often blights a ride. Consequently, it was a very enjoyable trip on some of Norfolk’s finest B roads with minimal traffic.
The Bure Valley Railway was opened in July 1990 and is a major tourist attraction within Norfolk, which welcomes over 100,000 visitors a year. With a small team of dedicated staff and volunteers, the railway operates on a not for profit basis. The Railway is built on the trackbed of the former Great Eastern Railway between Wroxham and Aylsham. Originally opened in 1880 the line survived for passenger traffic until 1952. The line did, however, survive for the purpose of carrying freight, a role it performed until it was formally closed by British Rail in 1982. There is ample parking and it is well worth a visit especially if you have young ones to entertain
Ensconced within the railway is the Whistlestop café which serves a variety of snacks and beverages which went down well with our party, which was by far the largest in the room. As usual the company was friendly and entertaining and we welcome any of our 4-wheel colleagues to join us at any of our published destinations. More information can be found on the NNAM website.
The ride back took a scatter gun approach as many of the riders made their own way back, it was a great turn out and thanks to Ian and Steve for leading their respective groups.
Until the next time keep it sunny side up.
Cheers Dave C
