I once saw a woman get on at Kirkby with a giant inflatable flamingo. She was going to a party, obviously. Another time, a bloke in a suit fell asleep and snored so loudly the whole carriage smiled.
These are the tiny, weird moments that make the train feel like a neighbourhood living room on wheels. It’s not just a commute; it’s a little slice of life.
And for parents? The train is a magic carpet. Kids love the motion, the windows, and the announcement voices. It’s cheaper than a soft play centre, and you’re in Nottingham before anyone can say “are we there yet?”
When things go wrong (and they might)
Let’s not pretend every journey is perfect. There are delays. Sometimes the train sits in the Newstead area for no reason, and everyone shares a collective sigh. But honestly? It’s still easier than sitting in traffic on the A60.
The Great Central Railway at Kirkby-in-Ashfield | Steaming Back to Kirkby
And when you finally roll into Nottingham, you feel a tiny surge of victory. You made it. The Broadmarsh Centre awaits, or maybe a wander through the old market square. No parking ticket, no road rage—just you and the city.
Plus, the return trip is equally straightforward. You hop back on after a day out, tired and happy. The train hums you home, and before you know it, you’re back in Kirkby, ready to complain about the price of milk.
