A family of four have become the first group to complete a new seven-and-a-half-mile railway trail by foot.

On Saturday, September 7, Alison Stewart-Paterson and her family from Balham, south London, purchased the first Railway Rambler tickets created by Epping Ongar Railway.

It took the family five hours to finish the course from Epping to Ongar including visiting two pubs, spotting wildlife and meeting farm animals on their scenic trip.

Speaking about the day out, Ms Stewart-Paterson said “We saw the offer in an email earlier in the week and thought the walk would be a great way of extending the summer for us.

“The boys loved spotting wildlife, looking at bugs and were delighted to be so close to the horses and sheep. It was a perfect family day out of London.”

Epping Forest Guardian:

The Railway Rambler is designed to encourage people to travel to one of the most rural parts of Essex by public transport.

Walkers are encouraged to enjoy this part of the county situated on the edge of London, including a visit to the medieval town of Chipping Ongar.

“The route was clearly mapped out and easy to follow, and we loved the magic of the for-est,” added Ms Stewart-Paterson. “Once we reached Epping station we were tired out but had a great sense of achievement.”

Dean Walton, Epping Ongar Railway’s general manager, said: “I was delighted to meet Alison and her family at the start of their Railway Ramble.

“This new ticket is opening up Ongar and the surrounding countryside for daytrippers from London in a win-win for the local economy and the Railway. I was so pleased when she told me what a lovely day the family had.”

The Railway Rambler ticket is £7 for adults and £3.50 for children and offers a single journey from Epping to Ongar via heritage bus and train services on the first bus and train of the day.

For further information about this press release please contact Dean Walton on 07880 748259 or by email deanw@eorailway.co.uk