Last Updated on September 21, 2026 by Suzy McCullough
We have just over 35 of the Best Santa Special Christmas Trains for 2026 listed in this post. There is such a great range of events over Christmas time for families. One thing we have always enjoyed is a ride on a Santa Special Christmas Train. There’s something about the nostalgia and the noise of the train. I just don’t think it can be beaten for kids to meet Santa. Below, there are listings in each of the main areas across England. Please note that some of the experiences include meeting Santa on the train – others include meeting him at a grotto before or after a train ride.
Best Santa Train Rides South East
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre – Panto Express – Buckinghamshire – Tickets on sale
See Father Christmas whilst enjoying a steam train ride, watch a pantomime and meet Mrs Claus and the Elves – all in one amazing festive Christmas experience. Start your journey with our family-friendly pantomime, Cinderella, in our festive Visitor Centre. Enjoy your performance and then make your way to Platform 4 to board the steam train. You will be shown to your compartment and visited by Father Christmas, where each child will be given a special golden ticket.
After the train ride, your adventure continues where you will be magically transported to Santa’s workshop to meet Mrs Claus and the elves, and your child can exchange their golden ticket for a gift of their choice. Buckinghamshire Railway Centre
Address: Quainton Road Station, Station Rd, Quainton, Aylesbury HP22 4BY
When? Selected date – 28th-29th November and then the 5th-6th, 12th-13th and 19th-22nd December
Kent and East Sussex Railway – Santa Specials – Kent – Tickets on Sale
We love Christmas at the Kent and East Sussex Railway, and we have been welcoming families to meet Santa on our trains since 1974! There’s nothing quite like the pleasure of a steam train ride knowing your child will meet Santa and receive a named gift, all without moving from the comfort of your allocated seats. Children are delighted to meet Santa on the train – and grown-ups love seeing him too. Cameras at the ready to capture those magical, timeless moments. Kent & East Sussex Railway
Address: Tenterden Town Station, Station Rd, Tenterden TN30 6HE
When? Selected dates from 29th November to 24th December
Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway – Santa Specials – Kent – Tickets on sale
Meet Father Christmas after a steam train ride from New Romney to Hythe! With festive treats, platform rides & other activities, this is a wonderful experience for all ages. Train journey from New Romney (TN28 8PL) to Hythe and return. A visit to Santa & his elves in his Grotto. A magical magician to entertain whilst you wait to meet Santa. A quality, age-related gift for each child aged 0-17 yrs*. Seasonal refreshments**. A visit to the Model Railway Exhibition at New Romney before your train journey begins. Snowy arrival back at New Romney. Romney Hythe & Dymchurch Railway
Address: New Romney Station, 2 Littlestone Rd, Littlestone, New Romney TN28 8PL
When? Selected dates from 28th November – 24th December
Spa Valley Railway – Polar Express – Kent – Tickets on Sale
Your adventure starts exactly like the film, with THE POLAR EXPRESS™ collecting your whole family from Spa Valley Railway to start your magical journey to the North Pole and back. You’ll meet your favourite icons from the beloved movie, including the Conductor, dancing chefs, a mysterious ghost, and of course the magical Santa Claus himself. All of you (complete with your pyjamas for the authentic experience!) will experience gloriously immersive theatre on a train as you make your way slowly North. Spa Valley Railway
Address: West Station, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN2 5QY
When? Selected dates from 7th November to 30th December
Bluebell Railway – Santa Specials – East Sussex – Tickets on sale
2026. Begin at Sheffield Park and board a beautifully restored steam train, where festive sights, sounds and scents set the scene for your journey through the Sussex countryside. Relax in your own cosy compartment or reserved seats as a heritage locomotive carries you along the historic Bluebell line towards Horsted Keynes. Every child receives a brand‑new 2026 activity pack filled with games, puzzles and keepsakes to enjoy during and after the trip. Bluebell Railway
Address: Park Station, Sheffield, Uckfield TN22 3QL – departure address may be different depending on what you book
When? Selected dates from 28th November to 24th December
Cholsey and Wallingford Railway – Santa Express – Berkshire – Tickets on sale
Take a festive train ride with Santa at the Cholsey & Wallingford Railway this Christmas. Santa’s elves will entertain you onboard, Father Christmas will visit every family, and each child will receive a present. Before the train departs, adults can enjoy a free festive drink and mince pie, while children get a soft drink and a sweet treat from the kiosk. The journey lasts around an hour, with Santa’s elves and the railway’s volunteers accompanying you throughout to keep the Christmas magic going. Cholsey & Wallingford Railway
Address: Cholsey & Wallingford Railway Preservation Society, 5 Hithercroft Rd, Wallingford OX10 9GQ
When? Selected dates from 28th November – 22nd December
Best Santa Special Train Rides South West
Avon Valley Railway – Santa Specials – Somerset – Tickets on Sale
Join us at the Avon Valley Railway to make unforgettable Christmas memories onboard our 2026 Santa Special. Once onboard our festive trains, the whistle will sound and you’ll depart on your fifty-minute train ride. Whilst you’re travelling, you’ll enjoy a mince pie or festive biscuit, and Santa will pass through the train saying hello to everyone. Then, when you return to Bitton Station, each family group will meet Santa again and all good children will receive a present from him too! There will also be the chance for your family group to take photographs and create those special festive memories. Avon Valley Railway
Address: Bitton Station, 3 Bath Rd, Bristol BS30 6HD
When? Selected dates from 22nd November – 24th December
West Somerset Railway – Santa Express – Somerset – Tickets on sale
Make memories to treasure for a lifetime on this Christmas family favourite – the Santa Express. Step aboard the festively decorated heritage carriages for a magical ride behind a steam locomotive through the scenic Quantock Hills from Bishops Lydeard to Williton and back. A gift from Santa and refreshments will be waiting for you at your table, with the man himself visiting during the journey. West Somerset Railway
Address: Station Rd, Bishop’s Lydeard, Taunton TA4 3BX
When? Selected dates from 5th to 24th December
South Devon Railway – Polar Express – Devon – Tickets on sale
The most iconic feature of The Polar Express is its sleek black steam engine. It’s even inscribed with the ‘1225’ signage to identify it as Santa’s own train. Your children will gasp in amazement as the Polar Express train pulls into the station. With billowing steam all the way, your authentic steam train ride will last around an hour. Throughout your train ride, you’ll be entertained, meeting the Conductor and his crew. All the while, the train steams towards the North Pole. Here you’ll meet Santa and one of his friendly elves. He will climb on board the train to meet you all. The Conductor will even clip your Polar Express tickets just like in the film. South Devon Railway
Address: Buckfastleigh station, TQ11 0DZ
When? Selected dates from 27th November until 23rd December
Dean Forest Railway – Santa Specials – Gloucestershire – Tickets on sale
Visit the Dean Forest Railway this Christmas for your chance to ride behind a real steam engine and meet Santa on board. The train will depart from Norchard Station, heading first to Parkend Station, where there is a short stop while the engine runs round (toilet facilities available on the platform). The train will then depart Parkend and head non-stop through the forest to Lydney Junction Station. Santa will visit everyone at their seats during this time. At Lydney Junction, you will then visit Santa’s Elves to collect your presents before returning back to Norchard Station to complete your 75-minute journey. Dean Forest Railway
Address: Forest Road, Lydney GL15 4ET
When? Selected dates from 28th November to 24th December
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway – Santa Specials – Gloucestershire – Tickets on Sale
Step aboard the Santa Express for a festive steam journey through the Cotswolds to the North Pole, where Santa Claus is waiting to welcome your family. Every child meets Santa, shares their Christmas wishes and takes home a special gift. Create unforgettable Christmas memories as the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway is transformed into a magical winter wonderland, whether you’re starting a new family tradition or returning for another festive adventure.
New for 2026: all trains will depart from Toddington Station for a relaxed, scenic journey by heritage steam through the Cotswold countryside. It’s a gentle three miles to Winchcombe, transformed into a magical North Pole for the season, taking 10 to 15 minutes each way, with around an hour and twenty minutes there to enjoy everything on offer before steaming home again. Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway
Address: The Railway Station, Toddington GL54 5DT
When? Selected dates from 28th November – 23rd December
Perrygrove Railway – Father Christmas Trains – Gloucestershire – Tickets on Sale
All aboard the Christmas Express. Take your seats with a seasonal drink in the Carriage Shed Theatre to enjoy our BRAND NEW SHOW where Mrs Claus and one of the Elves really need your children’s help. Will they be successful in persuading cheeky Santa to finally get himself down the chimney? Kids adore this heart-warming show, packed with giggles, festive fun and a very special audience with Father Christmas himself. Every child will see Santa and receive an age-appropriate gift – a magical moment to treasure. Perrygrove Railway
Address: Perrygrove Rd, Coleford GL16 8QB
When? Selected dates from 5th – 24th December
Best Santa Special Train Rides Yorkshire
Embsay and Bolton Abbey Railway – Polar Express – North Yorkshire – Tickets on sale
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is coming to the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway with the magic of the 2004 motion picture. Chris Van Allsburg’s story will be theatrically recreated, so families can be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale. Prepare to be surrounded by the magic and wonder of the Christmas season! The Polar Express departs from Bolton Abbey Station. Embsay & Bolton Abbey Railway
Address: Bolton Abbey Station, Bolton Abbey, Skipton BD23 6AF
When? Selected dates from 13th November until 24th December.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway – Santa Express – North Yorkshire – Tickets on Sale
Step aboard our heritage steam train for a magical Christmas journey this festive season. You’ll be welcomed by Santa’s cheeky elves before enjoying a personal visit from Santa on board. Every child will also receive a gingerbread man plush toy (20cm tall) and a festive book to take home. Relax and enjoy the winter scenery as the elves fill the journey with songs, games and festive fun. Back at the station, the Christmas magic continues with festive fete games and a letter-to-Santa post box, so be sure to leave a little extra time to enjoy it all. North Yorkshire Moors Railway
Address: 12 Park St, Pickering YO18 7AJ
When? Selected dates 28th November – 24th December
Wensleydale Polar Express – North Yorkshire – Tickets on Sale
Your journey begins just like the 2004 motion picture when THE POLAR EXPRESS™ will pick you up at Leeming Bar station to take you to the North Pole. You will get to meet the characters from the film, including the conductor, the singing chefs, the hobo and of course the main man himself, Father Christmas. You and your family, hopefully dressed in PJs, will experience a fun-filled theatrical adventure as you make your way to the North Pole.
Don’t forget to have a bite of your cookie and authentic hot chocolate before arriving at the North Pole to meet Santa Claus. Santa will join you on board and, if you are on the nice list, hand you your first gift of Christmas, a Silver Sleigh Bell, just as in the motion picture we all love. You will get to speak with Santa. Polar Express Wensleydale
Address: Leeming Bar Station, Leases Road, Leeming Bar, North Yorkshire, DL7 9AR
When? Various dates from 13th November until 23rd December.
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway – Elf Explorer – West Yorkshire – Tickets on Sale
Your festive experience starts at Oxenhope Station, where a brand-new immersive Christmas attraction awaits to welcome you into the world of the Elf Explorer. Packed with festive atmosphere, twinkling lights and plenty of surprises, this exciting new addition is the perfect way to begin your journey. Collect your golden tickets for the Elf Explorer at the check-in desk and head for the badge fairies’ house. The magical lady will be checking that everyone has been nice. Please ensure children collect the correct age sticker for their gift when checking in. Children can write letters to Father Christmas and enjoy festive activities, while grown-ups may wish to visit Rudolph’s Refreshments or enjoy a festive drink from the bar. Keighley & Worth Valley Railway
Address: The Railway Station, Haworth, BD22 8NJ
When? Selected dates from 28th November until 24th December
Whistlestop Valley – Santa Express – West Yorkshire – Tickets on sale
Enjoy a festive 25‑minute steam train ride to Shelley North Pole, and make sure you’re on the platform 15 minutes before departure. Keep an eye out for the cheeky elf causing Christmas mischief along the way. Once you arrive, children can enjoy a one‑to‑one meeting with Santa in his grotto and receive a gift, plus join Spike the Elf for his magical Christmas show. There’s also a reindeer‑food station and plenty more festive fun to explore. Whistlestop Valley Railway
Address: Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD8 9XJ
When? Selected dates from 29th November until 24th December
Best Santa Special Trains East Midlands
Battlefield Line – Santa Specials – Leicestershire – Tickets on Sale
Join Santa and his elves at The Battlefield Line Railway this Christmas. Our railway volunteers will once again be decorating the station at Shackerstone and our festive express train, then welcoming you all on board your 90-minute journey. As the train departs for Shenton, there will be an onboard refreshment service with at-seat service (card payment preferred) whilst you await Santa’s visit to you and your guests. There are three different packages to choose from when you book. Battlefield Line
Address: Shackerstone Station, Shackerstone CV13 6NW
When? Selected dates from 29th November until 24th December
Great Central Railway – Santa Express – Leicestershire – Tickets on Sale
Join the GCR elves, Mrs Claus, and Santa himself for a magical journey of singing, storytelling, and festive fun aboard the Santa Express. A magical start to the festive season, jump aboard and soak up the Christmas spirit as our traditional, heritage steam trains are transformed with twinkling lights, glittering garlands and seasonal cheer. During your festive adventure, children will meet Santa and his jolly helpers, receive a specially curated Christmas Activity Pack filled with games, puzzles, and colouring sheets, and enjoy a festive drink and treats. And to make the day truly special, Santa himself will personally deliver a Christmas gift to each child. Great Central Railway
Address: Great Central Rd, Loughborough LE11 1RW
When? Services depart from 28th November through to 24th December
Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway – Santa Specials – Lincolnshire – Tickets on sale
Join us for a truly unforgettable family adventure as you board the magical Jingle Belle and set off on a journey filled with wonder, excitement and Christmas cheer. From the moment you arrive, you’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds and spirit of the season, creating memories that will last long after the decorations have been packed away.
Along the way, little ones will discover festive surprises, meet some very special characters and take part in magical Christmas activities designed to delight the whole family. With plenty of opportunities for laughter, imagination and festive fun, every moment has been carefully crafted to capture the true magic of Christmas. At the heart of the experience awaits a truly special meeting with Santa himself. Guided by his cheerful elves, families will enjoy a magical one-to-one visit in a beautifully themed setting, where Christmas wishes come to life, and unforgettable memories are made. Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway
Address: Lakeside Station, Kings Road, Cleethorpes, DN35 0AG
When? Selected dates from 12th – 24th December
Lincolnshire Wolds Railway – Santa Specials – Lincolnshire – Tickets on Sale
Step aboard our Heritage Steam Railway and embark on a magical journey like no other! We are proud to be the sole standard gauge heritage steam railway in the beautiful county of Lincolnshire, and we invite you to join us this Christmas season.
But the real magic of our Christmas journey begins when Santa himself makes a special appearance on board. Accompanied by his merry band of Elves, Santa will visit each carriage, spreading cheer and ensuring that the festive spirit is alive and well. Santa will hand out special gold coins for the children to visit the toy shop after your journey & pick a gift to cherish. Lincolnshire Wolds Railway
Address: Ludborough Station, Station Road, Ludborough, Lincolnshire, DN36 5SQ.
When? 12th-13th and 19th-21st December
Ecclesbourne Valley Railway – Santa’s Enchanted Journey – Derbyshire – Tickets on Sale
Santa’s Enchanted Journey returns to the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway for 2026, with steam‑hauled trips running from late November to 24 December. Families can choose a Standard or Premium experience: Standard includes seats in an open coach, hot chocolate, cookies and a luxury gift from Father Christmas, while Premium offers a private compartment, extra time with Santa, a photo opportunity and a luxury present. New for 2026, Wirksworth Station features elf‑led sing‑alongs, a wishing tree, reindeer food for sale and help sending letters to Santa. On board, children can meet a baby reindeer puppet, enjoy stories, games and singing with the elves, and interact with Father Christmas, Mrs Claus and other magical characters throughout the journey. Ecclesbourne Valley Railway
Address: Unit 1, Wirksworth Station, Coldwell St, Wirksworth, Matlock DE4 4FB
When? Selected dates from 28th November – 24th December
Peak Rail – Santa Specials – Derbyshire – Tickets on sale
Santa and his Railway Helpers invite you to get Christmas off to a magical start by riding Santa’s festive steam train through the delightful Derwent Valley. Join them on their special train at Peak Rail from Rowsley South Station. As you sit back and enjoy the journey, a variety of professional entertainers will perform for you; Santa and his helpers will make their way through the train and meet everyone at their seat. Santa will have with him a wonderful age-appropriate gift for all the children. Children will receive a drink and snack each, whilst Adults can sit back and enjoy a glass of wine and a mince pie (Dietary requirements can be catered for, and a bottle of water/juice is available upon pre-booked request.) Peak Rail
Address: Matlock Station Station Yard, Matlock DE4 3NA
When? Selected dates from 5th – 24th December
Northampton and Lamport Railway – Santa Specials – Northamptonshire – Tickets On Sale
All tickets include complimentary refreshments onboard the train, comprising: a glass of sherry and a mince pie for adults and a sweet treat and a Fruit Shoot for kids. Whilst on the train, children can write their letters to Santa. Once you get off the train, you’ll meet Santa in his workshop, where all children receive a present. Our wheelchair users’ compartment is also available to book. It can accommodate one wheelchair and up to 2 carers/companions. Northampton & Lamport Railway
Address: Pitsford Rd, Chapel Brampton, Northampton NN6 8BA
When? Selected dates in November and December
Best Santa Special Trains West Midlands
Severn Valley Railway – Santa Steam Specials – Worcestershire – Tickets on sale
Step aboard a magical steam train from Kidderminster Station and journey into a world of festive wonder! Brand new for 2026, join Santa and friends for The Recipe for Christmas, a heart-warming theatrical adventure brought to life at Arley Station. Departures run throughout the day from Kidderminster Station (DY10 1QX), and the full experience lasts at least 2½ hours. Your magical journey begins at Kidderminster Station with festive cheer and seasonal decorations. Don’t forget to collect your special ticket and that morning’s edition of the North Pole News before you climb aboard our beautifully restored vintage carriages. Severn Valley Railway
Address: Station Dr, Kidderminster DY10 1QX
When? Selected dates from 28th November – 24th December.
Churnet Valley Railway – The Polar Express – Staffordshire – Tickets on sale
Your journey begins at Froghall Station on the Churnet Valley Railway in Staffordshire, where you are invited to hop on board THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride, which takes you on a magical journey to the North Pole. Do you believe? Well, if you don’t by the end of your journey, you will! Join our enthusiastic cast in telling the story whilst singing along with your favourite characters from the hit film. All passengers are encouraged to join in the fun by attending in your PJs (Don’t forget your dressing gown in case it’s cold at the North Pole!). Churnet Valley Railway
Address: Churnet Valley Railway, Kingsley & Froghall Station, Froghall, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST10 2HA
When? Selected dates from 7th November to 23rd December
Foxfield Railway – North Pole Express – Staffordshire – Tickets on Sale
SStep aboard for a magical festive journey as the North Pole Express returns to Foxfield Railway. Meet Santa and his helpers, enjoy seasonal treats, and watch children’s faces light up as each receives a special gift. Running on selected dates throughout November and December, this enchanting experience is always in high demand, so book early and make Christmas 2026 truly unforgettable. Foxfield Railway
Address: Foxfield Railway Station, Caverswall Rd, Blythe Bridge, Stoke-on-Trent ST11 9BG
When? Selected dates from 21st November – 24th December
Statfold Barn Railway – Magical Santa Express – Staffordshire – Tickets on sale
Your enchanting journey will involve boarding a beautifully lit train to see the big man himself in our SANTA’S GROTTO, having fun with Mrs Claus and many more magical adventures to follow with the elves. Don’t forget to stop by the Toy Shop where children can choose a special gift from Santa… only if they’re on the nice list, though. Statfold Barn Railway
Address: Ashby Rd, Tamworth B79 0BU
When? Selected dates from 27th November until 23rd December
Telford Steam Railway – Polar Express Ride – Shropshire – Tickets on sale
At Telford Steam Railway, Christmas becomes truly magical as you step into the world of the beloved 2004 Polar Express movie. This live theatrical experience brings the story to life onboard a real train, where you’ll meet the Conductor, singing chefs and Santa himself. Families are encouraged to wear cosy pyjamas as they enjoy hot chocolate, a delicious cookie and a festive journey to the North Pole. Every child receives the First Gift of Christmas, a Silver Sleigh Bell from Santa, just like in the film. After the ride, you can explore Santa’s Workshop, write letters, and browse festive souvenirs, making it far more than just a train trip. Telford Steam Railway
Address: The Old Loco Shed, Bridge Rd, Horsehay, Telford TF4 2NF
When? Selected dates from 21st November until 29th December
Best Santa Special Trains East Anglia
Nene Valley Railway – Santa Specials – Cambridgeshire – Tickets on sale
Your visit begins at the festively decorated heritage booking office, where each party receives a Festive Golden Ticket granting access to the Christmas experience. From there, you can explore a cosy festive area with open‑air market cabins selling seasonal snacks and drinks, meet cheerful Christmas characters for photos and sing‑alongs, and enjoy twinkling lights and music throughout. Children can bring their letter for Santa and stop by his Post Office before boarding, where Santa’s postal workers will stamp it and help them post it in one of the special post boxes. There’s also a beautifully decorated marquee filled with festive displays, perfect photo spots and a chance to meet Mrs Claus. Nene Valley Railway
Address: Nene Valley Railway Ltd, Wansford Station, Stibbington, Cambridgeshire, PE8 6LR
When? Selected dates from 28th November to 24th December
Audley End Miniature Railway – Christmas Special – Essex – Tickets on Sale
At Father Christmas’ workshop, where more friendly elves await, who will bring a touch of theatre to your visit. The highlight, of course, is meeting Father Christmas and Mother Christmas, who will greet each child personally from the comfort of your train carriage and present each little one with a small gift. Take a stroll around the Fulfen Forest, and see all of the twinkly lights with plenty of places to take photos. Meet our reindeer keepers who will help you to make reindeer food to leave out on Christmas Eve. You can write your very own letter to Father Christmas, and post it in our post box that goes straight to the North Pole. Pop to the stage show. Find Fairies and Elves in their festive homes and more. Audley End Miniature Railway
Address: Audley End Rd, Audley End, Saffron Walden CB11 4JB
When? Selected dates from 21st November – 24th December
Colne Valley Railway – Visit Santa by Train – Essex – Tickets on Sale
After a SELL-OUT 2025, Santa is coming back to the Colne Valley! From December 5th 2026, he will be back visiting his guests. Get to meet Santa and his elves, take a train ride through the Essex countryside and be delivered directly to Santa, who will be waiting for you. There is a present for everyone, including the dog! Colne Valley Railway
Address: Castle Hedingham, Halstead CO9 3DZ
When? Selected dates from 5th – 24th December
Epping Ongar Railway – Santa Specials – Essex – Tickets on sale
The experience starts as you join our vintage London bus service at either Epping Underground station or in Ongar at the times shown below. When you arrive at North Weald Station you will get the chance to get in the spirit with something from our festive food stall whilst you listen to our live brass band! As you wait for the train, perhaps you will meet our characters who will be walking around the crowds looking for the nice children to make sure that Santa will find them later.
Not long after arriving, the excitement mounts as you join Santa’s fantastically festive Special Train, which will take you on a return journey via the ancient Epping Forest to Ongar. Whilst the nice children wait for Santa to find them on the train and give them a present, our entertainers will be around to keep you busy. Epping Ongar Railway
Address: Station Approach, Chipping Ongar, Ongar CM5 9BN
When? Selected dates from the 28th of November until the 24th of December
Bure Valley Railway – Festive Express – Norfolk – Tickets on Sale
The Festive Express is a true family favourite taking place on specific dates throughout December. Your ticket includes the steam train journey, a visit to Santa, a personalised present for every child and a snack box with festive treats. No hidden costs, and feel free to take as many photos as you like in Santa’s Grotto. It’s a truly magical way to celebrate the season together. From the moment you arrive, the experience is designed to be relaxed, memorable and full of festive cheer, so you can simply enjoy the occasion.
Climb aboard for a 30-minute steam train journey to Brampton and back, with the opportunity to watch the locomotive run round the train before returning to Aylsham. Back at the station, children will be welcomed to Santa’s sleigh before visiting his grotto to meet Santa and his elves, and receive a carefully selected personalised present to take home. Photos are welcome so you can capture the special moment. Bure Valley Railway
Address: Aylsham Station, Norwich Rd, Aylsham, Norwich NR11 6BW
When? Selected dates from 5th – 24th December
North Norfolk Railway – Santa Specials – Norfolk – Tickets on sale
Sit back and relax as your train steams non-stop from Sheringham up the whole length of the line to Holt. Get into the festive spirit and make merry with complimentary onboard refreshments served to your table – mince pies and mulled cider for adults and gingerbread and hot chocolate for every child! There are festive children’s activity booklets too, plus entertainers and balloon modellers who will stroll through the train spending time in each carriage for part of the journey.
On the return journey, the train will stop at Weybourne Station where you will make your way through an enchanted Christmas Tree Kingdom with a magical seasonal theme, a snowy model railway and Santa’s friendly helpers before you meet Father Christmas himself, who will present every child with a special, wrapped gift before you rejoin the train for the short journey back to Sheringham. North Norfolk Railway
Address: Sheringham Station, North Norfolk Railway PLC, Station Approach, Sheringham NR26 8RA
When? Selected dates from 21st November – 23rd December
Best Santa Special Trains North East
Weardale Railway – Santa Express – County Durham – Tickets on sale
Welcome to the Santa Express, the magical Christmas train experience in the heart of the Durham Dales. Step aboard for a festive journey where Christmas comes alive with laughter, surprises, and unforgettable memories.
Led by Santa’s team of mischievous Elves, every ride is filled with festive fun, gifts for the little ones, and – of course – a special meeting with Santa himself. Weardale Railway
Address: Sheringham Station, North Norfolk Railway PLC, Station Approach, Sheringham NR26 8RA
When? Selected dates from 28th November – 24th December
Best Santa Special Trains North West
Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway – Santa Express – Cumbria – Tickets on Sale
Step into a truly magical Christmas journey with the Santa Express Experience at the Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, one of the most memorable festive things to do in the Lake District for families. Set against the winter beauty of the Eskdale Valley, this much-loved event combines steam railway heritage with festive storytelling and a visit from Santa himself. Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway
Address: Station, Main St, Ravenglass CA18 1SW
When? Selected dates from 21st November – 24th December
Best Santa Special Trains Wales
Rhyl Miniature Railway – Santa Train – North Wales – Tickets on Sale
If you’re looking for festive family fun in North Wales, the Santa Train at Rhyl Miniature Railway is a lovely Christmas outing. Families can enjoy a cheerful train ride around Marine Lake on Britain’s oldest miniature railway before meeting Santa in his grotto, with no time limit on your visit. Children receive a special gift from Santa, and everyone can enjoy seasonal treats like mince pies, biscuits and drinks. You’ll ride in your own enclosed compartment during the experience, and you can also explore the railway museum before or after your visit. Rhyl Miniature Railway
Address: Wellington Rd, Rhyl LL18 1AQ
When? Selected dates from 5th – 24th December
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