The Railway Children / Swallows and Amazons

"The Railway Children" (1970, 103 minutes). Edith Nesbit's 1906 novel "The Railway Children" was adapted for the big screen in 1970 by Lionel Jeffries when he directed the classic film version which has been loved by children and adults alike ever since. When their father mysteriously disappears and is rumoured to have been imprisoned for spying, the three children and their mother have to move to a modest cottage in the Yorkshire countryside. Led by eldest daughter Bobbie (Jenny Agutter), they develop a fascination with the railway that runs nearby. This interest brings new and unlikely friendships as well as several exciting and dangerous adventures, but when the children are faced with a terrible crisis can they save the railway and prove their father's innocence as well? "Swallows And Amazons" (1974, 88 minutes). Set in the Lake District during the glorious summer of 1929, Arthur Ransome's timeless tale is the bright, breezy and colourful story of six children who spend an idyllic summer messing about in boats. As the narrative develops, their friendly rivalry becomes filled with imaginary dangers and thoughts of piracy which culminate in an exciting and suspense-filled conclusion. Based on one of the best-loved children's novels of all time, this enchanting film recaptures the carefree innocence of a lost era.