Three Neuro-Inclusive Touchpoints at A Day Out With Thomas – Puffing Billy Railway

Whether your child or someone in your family is neurodivergent or not, inclusivity benefits us all. Predictability, reduced wait times, and sensory consideration help ease the mental load and make days out feel a little less overwhelming. It’s not just about ticking a box; it’s about creating spaces where more families feel welcome, safe, and supported to enjoy moments together.

That’s why we were so impressed by a few thoughtful features we noticed at our recent visit to A Day Out With Thomas at Puffing Billy Railway—simple ideas that can make a world of difference to a child (and their grown-ups).

Our family meeting Thomas!

While the event itself was full of the charm and magic you'd expect, it was some of the quieter touches that truly stood out. Here are three neuro-inclusive features that deserve the spotlight.

A Downloadable Social Story

This was a standout. Available on the Puffing Billy Railway website, the social story walks children and their families through exactly what to expect from the day. From parking the car to meeting Thomas, right through to boarding and exiting the train—it’s all mapped out in a visual, step-by-step format. These kinds of resources are incredibly helpful for neurodivergent kids (and their parents!) who find comfort in knowing what’s coming next. It’s like giving them a map to help them navigate what can otherwise be an overwhelming day.

There’s also a sensory-friendly map available for both the railway and the Lakeside Visitor Centre precinct, which provides details on quieter zones and sensory highlights.

Example of sensory map

Neuro-Inclusive Entertainment

We were pleasantly surprised by how well the event balanced fun with sensory sensitivity. The lights and sounds, while engaging, were never overwhelming. Even with extra entertainment elements layered in, it felt considered. There was no blaring music or jarring announcements, and that makes a huge difference in an environment where excitement can quickly tip into overstimulation. Better yet, you can even listen to the train’s whistle on their website before you visit!

Pre-Ordered Food Options

Big crowds and food queues can be stressful, especially in stimulating environments. Puffing Billy offers the option to pre-order meals online, reducing waiting time and adding ease to the day for families who need quicker transitions. Not only does it reduce stress, but it also allows kids and their families to stay in their comfort zones without the added pressure of unpredictable food availability. While we didn't personally use this service, we saw many families take advantage of it.

Audio Storytelling with Accessibility in Mind

The Puffing Billy story and history are available as audio recordings, and transcripts are also provided—compatible with screen readers. It's a great touch that ensures the railway’s rich history is accessible to all visitors.

While no event is perfect, these thoughtful features didn’t go unnoticed. Whether you need them or not, we’re big believers that inclusion benefits everyone—and these little details can go a long way in helping all families make magical memories together. We’d love to see more events take note!

Have you visited a neuro-inclusive space lately? We’d love to hear about it!