I’m no trainspotter but I was excited to return to the old Eurostar terminal at Waterloo. Fond memories of day trips were supplemented by curiosity about this unique production of E Nesbit’s classic tale.

The Railway Children first came to Waterloo last year. Positive reviews and an Olivier Award followed. It’s back until 4 September.

I wasn’t disappointed – The Railway Children is innovative whilst oozing nostalgia and charm. I agree with much of Jenny’s original review.

Asking around the audience, I discovered someone who’d also seen the show in 2010. Her feeling was that the already good show had been refined and was better than ever. There’s also new cast including comedian and broadcaster Marcus Brigstocke as Station Master Perks. However, for me the star of the show remains Stirling Single, the 60 tonne steam locomotive which makes its spectacular entrance at the end of the first half.

Note to parents: the mums in our group felt that the show was not suitable for young children. There are some loud and potentially scary moments. I’d say 7 and above to be on the safe side although the recommendation appears to be 5+.

Railway Children is at Waterloo Station until 4 September

The award-winning silly musical, adapted by Eric Idle from the film Monty Python and the Holy Grail, has all your favourite Python jokes, performed just for you by a shiny new cast.

Musicals favourite Jodie Prenger was bawdy and charming as the Lady of the Lake, creating a stronger, more well-rounded character than previous Ladies. I thought Jodie was great as Nancy in Oliver!, but she’s even better in Spamalot and clearly having lots of fun!

Grange Hill heartthrob and Eastenders star Todd Carty was unexpected casting as Patsy, King Arthur’s downtrodden assistant but he was very funny and perfect for the role.

Marcus Brigstocke should have been perfectly cast as King Arthur, bringing his usual mix of ranting wit and genial bewilderment to the character, but he only really relaxed into it in the closing number.

Spamalot is perfect comfort theatre, escape from the world and laugh yourself silly for a couple of hours. The show has all the ingredients of a great musical – big showy numbers, sequins, buffoonery and fish-slapping. Like the TV show, you can watch the musical again and again and it’s still genius.

Everyone left the New Wimbledon Theatre cheerfully whistling Always Look on The Bright Side of Life.

The show has a short run at the New Wimbledon Theatre. Book your tickets to Monty Python’s Spamalot now, or we’ll use the comfy chairs on you!

Monty Python’s Spamalot, 2-5 June £37.50 – £40-50, www.ambassadortickets.com/New-Wimbledon-Theatre