The Railway Children – Outdoor Theatre Experience

Paperback Theatre returns to Leicester with a delightful new adaptation of The Railway Children!

Paperback Theatre returns to Leicester with a delightful new adaptation of The Railway Children, bringing E. Nesbit’s timeless story to life in the beautiful open-air setting of Abbey Pumping Station.

After the huge success of last year’s Wizard of Oz, we’re thrilled to welcome them back for another unforgettable family performance.

A Story of Adventure, Friendship & Mystery

It’s summer, 1905. When their father suddenly disappears, Bobbie, Peter and Phyllis are whisked away from their city home to a quiet countryside cottage.

No Wifi. No Xbox. And water from a well?! This summer is definitely ruined!

With no screens, no gadgets—just imagination and wide-open spaces—the children soon discover the excitement of the railway at the bottom of their garden. Along the tracks, they meet new friends, uncover secrets, and set out to solve the mystery that changed their lives forever.

Bobbie, Peter and Phyllis (Phil to you and me) have been swept off to the remote countryside by their mother, who won’t tell them why!

Left to explore their new home, it’s not long before they feel the pull of the railway at the bottom of the garden. As they follow the tracks to the local station, a whole world opens up for them, full of charming characters, romance, peril and questions that need answering.

What to get Mr. Perks for his birthday when you can’t afford sweets?

Why is the 08.11 always late?

Who is stealing from the coal-yard at nighttime?

And where has father gone, anyway?

Adults Children

Make it a summer day to remember—gather your family and experience the magic of live outdoor theatre!

Bring a picnic

Bring your own chairs and blankets