children

The world’s oldest model village has been delighting children and adults since 1929. Its 1.5 acres of minature landscape, built on a scale of 1:12, has everything from archers to a zoo, all linked together by a network of model trains running on 400m of track.

Wander around the six themed village areas and watch the tiny population enjoying the funfair, a lazy day on the beach and their favourite sports. Look out for working models of a coalmine, windmill, tramway and a house on fire. Find the oil refinery, aerodrome, arbour and castle while listening out for station announcements, brass bands, choirs and morris dancers.

Little ones can marvel at being bigger, rather than smaller, than everything and everyone else for once. They can also let off steam in the colourful play area and enjoy a train ride (weekends, bank holidays and local school holidays only, 90p for over 2s).

The refreshment kiosk serves hot and cold snacks but as a visit is best enjoyed on a dry day we recommend bringing your own food and making use of two handy picnic areas.

Highlights

• small but perfectly formed – a compact attraction to visit and enjoy
• 1930s nostalgia and the incredible attention to tiny details
• model trains, trams and planes for transport enthusiasts
• excellent play area for a run-around
• modest entry fees (free for under-twos) and all profits go to charity

Admission (2011): Adult £9, Children (2-15yrs) £5.50, Concessions £5.25/£6.25, Family of 4 (2 adults and 2 children) £26. Group rates and annual tickets available.

Note: elevated walkways are up steps and some paths are too narrow for side-by-side double buggies.