15 Jul – 7 Sep 2025
Keighley and Worth Valley Railway
The Railway Children
The classic production on the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway.
In 2025 we revisited this much-loved children’s classic – on the very train tracks where the film was shot.
Mike Kenny’s enchanting stage adaptation of E. Nesbit’s classic novel has won thousands of admirers since it premiered in 2008. And in summer 2025, for the first time, we took this production for a ride along the iconic Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, familiar to millions from the film adaptation of The Railway Children.
Exclusively for Bradford 2025, the show began with a ride on a steam train from Keighley, travelling the full length of this historic railway. At the end of the line at Oxenhope, audiences found a purpose-built auditorium within the station’s Engine Shed – and a new version of the production, which told the story of three children forced to move from London to Yorkshire after their father is falsely imprisoned.
"A magical performance"”
Trailer by Mood Films
"A glorious piece of storytelling"”
"Irresistible"”
Stand & Be Counted
This immersive experience was created with Stand & Be Counted, a pioneering Yorkshire-based theatre company that makes work with and for people seeking sanctuary. Learn more about Stand & Be Counted Theatre.
Presented by Bradford 2025 and York Theatre Royal in partnership with the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway for Bradford 2025 UK City of Culture.
Supported by London North Eastern Railway, Rayne Foundation and The Shears Foundation.
Image by Guy Farrow.
Partners
Creative Team and Cast
Director
Set and Costume Designer
Associate Costume Designer
Lighting Designer
Composer / Music Director
Sound Designer
Young People’s Director
Roberta
Peter
Phyllis
Mother
Father/Russian
Mr Perks
Mrs Perks
Old Gentleman
Mrs Viney
Doctor/Butler
Jim/District Superintendent
Between Maid
Butler, Covering artist + Ensemble
Covering artist + Ensemble
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