OMG IT'S A GIRL! WRITTEN BY A DAD
I have to be honest here, until we were invited to go on the Little Bo Peep train at Rathwood I only thought they did the Santa Train! How wrong was I! There are regular events throughout the year. February is the Little Bo Peep train, March is Cinderella and there are other events throughout the year.
Booking is very simple and easy. You go onto the website, pick your date and time, pay securely and then print off your ticket. Simples! Even a technophobe like Mrs OMG can manage it.
You are advised to get there 30 minutes beforehand, so Google Map on the phone off we set, allowing plenty of time for wee stops and missed turnings. Even I couldn’t miss the place. We rocked up with plenty of time to spare, so had a wander round the shops. There are some wonderful gifts and housewares. We nearly came away with a teapot, cups and a milk jug. Thankfully the kids found the door to the waiting point for the train so my pocket was spared.
The waiting area is plenty big enough, with lots to keep little ones amused until the event starts.
After handing over our ticket we were given stickers with our names on and vouchers for a cupcake. (Only for the kids, bah)
Right on time a sheep ran through the waiting area, stopping to high five the kids and then disappeared through a door. Seconds later Little Bo Peep came in, introduced herself and asked if we’d seen her sheep (Seamus)
We were then asked for her help to find him. Off we went onto the train.
What then follows, is part adventure, treasure hunt, pantomime and entertainment. I won’t spoil it for you by giving a blow by blow account of what happens, but will say it is thoroughly enjoyable for all ages. We had 2, 8, 10 and 12 year olds with us and they all had a great time.
Little Bo Peep is excellent at getting the kids involved, and I’m sure there wasn’t one child on the train who didn’t join in.
With all the hopping on and off the train, stopping for clues and feeding the geese, all the while looking out for Freddie the Fox and Seamus the time flies and roughly 45 mins to an hour later, cuddly lamb in hand we arrived back at the centre ready for our cupcake.
There is a restaurant serving full meals with a children’s menu. We didn’t sample it on this occasion, but I had a good look at everyone’s plates on the way through and it looked delicious.
There are plenty of other things to do before or after the event. The Maze of Ireland is only €3 per person and looks great fun, I’m sure the little ones can chase themselves around in there for ages!
There is also a play park, being Irish we didn’t bring wet weather clothes, sure it NEVER rains over here! So kept Little Miss OMG distracted as we walked past.
Based on the prices of €7 for a child and €4 for an adult, this is excellent value for money and I have no hesitation in recommending this or other events to anyone. We are already planning on going back for the Easter Train.
