More than a Railway: Connecting Communities to Countryside Experiences

To celebrate Community Rail Network’s Community Rail Week, customers from Surrey Choices Vocational Projects Team (an organisation providing support to adults with learning disabilities) embarked on an immersive journey through two picturesque landscapes, courtesy of the North Downs railway line. This year focuses on ‘More than a Railway’, and with thanks to Great Western Railway’s funding, the Surrey Choices team had the opportunity to experience both the Surrey Hills National Landscape and Blackwater Valley whilst gaining valuable insights into safe and efficient travel on the train.

Aboard the train, the group took part in a creative session inspired by the landscape of the Surrey Hills. Upon reaching Farnborough North in the heart of the Blackwater Valley, they explored tranquil fishing lakes and regenerated gravel pits, offering a striking contrast to the chalk hills of Surrey. There was also a visit to Reg’s Garden, a beautiful community garden looked after by dedicated volunteers from Farnborough Street Resident’s Association.

This initiative embodies inclusivity, aiming to help communities feel confident using the train, as well as experiencing it as a new way to visit neighboring countryside. It is exemplary of how Community Rail Partnerships not only connect people to the railway, but also to the surrounding history, heritage, and nature. This pilot project is a collaborative effort between Surrey Hills National Landscape, Surrey Hills Society, Southeast Communities Rail Partnership, and the Blackwater Valley Countryside Trust.