King of The Railway

They’re two they’re four they’re six they’re eight
Shunting trucks and hauling freight
red and green and brown and blue
they’re the really useful crew ….

Can you guess who’s song is that?  Of course it is Thomas & Friends!  Today, we were very lucky to get invited to visit Drayton Manor Park which is the home of Thomas Land! It is near Tamworth and very well sign posted. The sat nav might take you to the wrong entrance, so be careful, as there is a big sign written no access to Drayton Manor Park. There are a lot of parking spaces and costs £3 for parking. We have been here before and I had blogged about our experience which you can read here.

We were very excited to watch the King of The Railway in the 4D cinema. Please be aware that the movie is in 2D but they have added effects like blowing bubbles, moving chairs and spraying water onto you. This is a story about a surprise happening on the Island of Sodor. In this movie, there are a lot of new friends. Thomas is delighted when the Earl of Sodor (Sir Robert Norramby) chooses him and friends Percy and James to rebuild Ulfstead Castle. They meet Millie, a French engine who is Sir Robert Norramby’s private steam engine and Stephen, an older steam locomotive nicknamed The Rocket.

Spencer and Gordon who are always racing each other are stunned when they encounter two new engines, Connor and Caitlin, who are even faster than they are! The day before the Opening of the Castle, Stephen goes missing and his friends go searching for him. Luckily they find him, though he is trapped behind the rocks of the mine cave. Stephen discovers King Godred’s long lost crown in time for the opening of the castle.

Ms C totally loved the show and she sat there throughout the hour watching the show and munching her popcorn. I would recommend this movie to anyone fans of Thomas. This movie is interesting and fun to watch as there are so many new characters. The storyline is straightforward to follow, teaching children about teamwork and helping each other.

Thomas & Friends: King of the Railway was released on DVD on 1st September and is available in all usual stockists. It is also being shown in Vue Cinemas since Friday 23rd August. In addition to the DVD, a large selection of brand new ‘King of the Railway’ tie-in products, including engines, playsets and books, will soon be available at retail stores based on this engaging new story.

After the movie, we went on the new Thomas Land ride – Winston’s Whistle stop tour. This is a very new, gentle short ride. It goes around Thomas Land where you are able to get some nice views from a height. It is suitable for all ages. It is a shame that we had to leave early as we had to pick up my son who finished school at 3 pm.

If you have children who love Thomas or trains, I recommend you visit Drayton Manor Park, you won’t be disappointed. There are a lot of rides for young children. Also look out for their Thomas Land Magical Christmas which opens on 15th November. I would like to thank HIT entertainment and Drayton Manor Park for this event.  We had a fabulous day and would love to go back again!

Disclosure: We were invited to this event and received a goody bag. Image used with permission.