The Railway Children Return – a first-class delight

A much-loved story set among Yorkshire’s steam trains is about to add a new chapter – and with our limited-edition new treat collection joining the journey, it’s just the ticket.

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This summer Bettys embarks on a new and exciting adventure with The Railway Children Return. Arriving in cinemas July 15, the film is a sequel to The Railway Children – the British classic filmed in Yorkshire that’s become one of the most beloved family films of all time.

Set four decades after the original story, in The Railway Children Return we meet a group of children evacuated from Blitz-threatened Salford to a Yorkshire village during World War II. Arriving at Oakworth station, they’re welcomed by The Railway Children’s heroine Bobbie – now a grandma – her daughter Annie and grandson Thomas. But Oakworth soon reveals another surprise, as the children discover a young, injured American soldier hiding in the railyard who needs their help.

Jenny Agutter reprises her iconic role of Bobbie, alongside co-stars Sheridan Smith, Tom Courtenay and John Bradley. The siblings Lily, Pattie and Ted are played by Beau Gadsdon, Eden Hamilton and Zac Cudby, with KJ Aikens as the soldier Abe. More than 50 years after its release, the original film’s picturesque locations are as much a draw for visitors to Yorkshire as a trip to Bettys, and The Railway Children Return is no different. Once again the vintage locomotives and preserved stations of the Keighley and Worth Valley Railway steal their scenes, but keep your eyes peeled for a special Bettys cameo, too.

With the summer holidays not far away, The Railway Children Return is perfect for generations to enjoy together – as is the collection of treats we’ve created to celebrate the film’s release. The Railway Children Return Gift Box is a limited-edition selection filled with Bettys favourites to delight both the young and young at heart. Naturally, it includes the Bettys Express Train, our own railway scene crafted from irresistible Swiss Grand Cru milk chocolate. Two jolly Railway Biscuit Bears are along for the ride, while our Fruit Jellies, Bettys Buttons and a Milk Chocolate Guinea are ideal treats to accompany any adventure.

The gift box itself has been beautifully illustrated for us by York artist Emily Sutton, whose designs you may have previously seen on everything from Bettys biscuit boxes and cake tins to the menus in our Café Tea Rooms. We thought her nostalgic, hand-drawn style inspired by the golden age of children’s stories was a perfect match for this most delicious adventure – get ready to hop aboard.

For more about the film and book tickets at TheRailwayChildrenReturn.co.uk

Order The Railway Children Return Gift Box, now for delivery from 6th June.