We have just over 35 of the Best Santa Special Christmas Trains for 2023 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.
Best Santa Train Rides South East
Buckinghamshire Railway Centre – Panto Express – Buckinghamshire – Tickets on sale
See Father Christmas in a ‘Grotto with a Difference’ – on a vintage steam train! Why queue for hours when you can sit on a steam train and wait for Santa to come to you?! You will be shown to your compartment on the steam train, and you will be taken up and down our 1/3 mile length of track whilst you wait for Father Christmas, who will be making his way along the train visiting all the children.
When he comes to you, one of his elves will pull gifts for the children from his huge toy sack! Once your train arrives back at Platform 4, make your way to the Pantomime seating at the far end of the Visitor Centre, sit back and enjoy the show! Enjoy the festive Christmas atmosphere inside our large Visitor Centre with decorations, a huge Christmas tree, festive music, plus a cafe and gift shop.
Train ride approx. 25 mins; panto running time approx. 25 mins. You can stay and enjoy the cafe and gift shop etc before/after your experience.
Address: Quainton Road Station, Station Rd, Quainton, Aylesbury HP22 4BY
When? Selected dates in November and December
How much? Tickets from £17.50 pp.
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 for 46 years! There’s nothing quite like the pleasure of a steam train ride knowing your child will meet Santa and receive a gift, all from the comfort of your allocated seats. Sit back, relax and enjoy the journey!
Address: Tenterden Town Station, Station Rd, Tenterden TN30 6HE
When? Selected dates December
How much? Prices from £150 for 4 people
Romney Hythe and Dymchurch Railway – Santa Specials – Kent – Tickets on sale
Santa Specials include a return train journey from New Romney to Hythe, seasonal refreshments, and the main event – a visit to Santa in his Grotto, with a quality, age-related gift for each child aged 1-15 yrs. Arrive early and visit the Model Railway Exhibition at New Romney before your train journey begins.
Add to your experience by selecting an All-Day Festive Breakfast before your departure to Hythe. Arrive early, and tuck into your Festive Feast at the Heywood Buffet, before visiting Santa at Hythe.
Address: New Romney Station, 2 Littlestone Rd, Littlestone, New Romney TN28 8PL
When? Selected dates in December
How much? Tickets from £29.50 per person.
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.
Address: West Station, Royal Tunbridge Wells TN2 5QY
When? Selected dates in November and December
How much? Standard tickets from £33.95 up to £46.95.
Bluebell Railway – Santa Specials – East Sussex – Tickets on sale
- Get into the mood with some Christmas music while having your tickets checked
- Board your Santa Specials from one of two starting stations. You can join our services from either Sheffield Park (compartment trains) or East Grinstead (open-seating trains). PLEASE CHECK CAREFULLY which station of departure.
- Chocolate coins for you on board will be given out during your journey.
- Drinks trolley will be available onboard these services.
- Enjoy the trip to Horsted Keynes through the winter countryside.
- Visit Santa in his parlour with an opportunity for a photo.
- Collect your special present from Santa- Follow your special route to Santa’s Parlour where you will meet him and get your present. Photos will be possible.
- Enjoy the traditional inclusive amusement attractions.
- Take time for a glass of delicious Mulled Wine on sale in the Pantry & The Buffet at Horsted Keynes. Festive treats will be available too.
- Rejoin your train to return to Sheffield Park or East Grinstead
Address: Park Station, Sheffield, Uckfield TN22 3QL – departure address may be different depending on what you book
When? Selected dates from 25th November – 24th December
How much? Prices vary – please visit their website.
Cholsey and Wallingford Railway – Santa Express – Berkshire – Tickets on sale
Be entertained by Santa’s elves, be visited by Father Christmas and every child will receive a present. Before departure adults will receive a free festive drink and mince pie, and children will receive a soft drink and a sweet treat from our Christmas Market.
The journey will take approximately an hour and you will be accompanied throughout by Santa’s elves and our team of volunteers.
Address: Cholsey & Wallingford Railway Preservation Society, 5 Hithercroft Rd, Wallingford OX10 9GQ
When? November 25th & 26th, December 2nd & 3rd, 9th & 10th, 16th & 17th, 22nd & 23rd
How much? £20 pp and under 2s on laps are £5.
Best Santa Special Trains South West
Swanage Railway – Polar Express – Dorset – Tickets on Sale
The experience consists of approximately an hour-long return train journey leaving from the Swanage Railway Station, Railway Station Approach, Swanage, Dorset BH19 1HB. The train cannot be boarded at any other station. The nearest long-stay car park (Pay and Display) is on Victoria Avenue, BH19 1AP. We regret there is no parking available at the station.
On board, each train will be actors appearing as characters from the book and film THE POLAR EXPRESS™. There will be singing, dancing and interaction with our customers. All customers will receive a cup of hot chocolate and a cookie on the journey, and a special present on the return journey from the North Pole.
Address: Swanage BH19 1HB
When? Selected dates from 17th November – 30th December
How much? Prices Online
More Christmas Events in the South East
Best Santa Special Train Rides South West
Avon Valley Railway – Santa Specials – Somerset – Tickets on Sale
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 boys and girls 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.
This year, the present will be in the form of a bespoke Avon Valley Railway reindeer-themed plush toy. This will be offered to all children regardless of age (it’s suitable from birth). We’ve had some great feedback from our passengers over the last couple of years about our bespoke plush presents so Santa is really looking forward to sharing this year’s present with everyone.
Address: Bitton Station, 3 Bath Rd, Bristol BS30 6HD
When? Selected dates in November and December
How much? Tickets from £22 per person
West Somerset Railway – Santa Express – Somerset – Tickets on sale
Make memories to treasure for a lifetime on our family favourite – the Santa Express. Step aboard our festively decorated heritage carriages, filled with Christmas cheer and excitement and take a wonderful journey through West Somerset’s winter woodlands.
Santa’s presents and refreshments will be waiting at your table and he’ll be along for the ride to ensure you have received them! A round trip to Williton means there will be plenty of time aboard to soak up the experience, get in the festive spirit or relax with some refreshments whilst enjoying the journey.
Address: Station Rd, Bishop’s Lydeard, Taunton TA4 3BX
When? Selected dates in December
How much? Tickets cost £25 pp.
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 with amazement as the Polar Express train pulls into the station. 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.
Address: Buckfastleigh station, TQ11 0DZ
When? Selected dates from 24th November until 23rd December
How much? Standard tickets from £33.95 per person. More expensive premium tickets are also on offer.
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 around (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.
Address: Forest Road, Lydney GL15 4ET
When? Selected dates from 25th November to 24th December
How much? £19 per person. Under 2’s are free.
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway – Santa Express – Gloucestershire – Tickets on Sale
Your journey to the ‘North Pole’ will begin from Cheltenham Racecourse Station, from where you will travel by steam train to the North Pole (Winchcombe Station).
Here you will be able to walk through a wonderland of lights, trees, and decorations and on to where Santa will be waiting to talk to all the children.
The whole family will be able to enjoy the usual refreshments including the railway’s famous and highly recommended mince pies; additionally, adults also have the option of a free glass of mulled wine. If you are still feeling peckish our griddle will be on the platform at Winchcombe selling baps filled with bacon, burgers or sausages.
There will also be the opportunity to buy takeaway beer and additional boxes of delicious mince pies to take back with you before re-joining the train for the trip back. Also, keep an eye out for the singing penguins!
Address: The Railway Station, Toddington GL54 5DT
When? 25th November – 23rd December
How much? £25 pp. Children under 12 months are free
Perrygrove Railway – Christmas Twilight Trains – Gloucestershire – Tickets on sale
They are offering 2 different Christmas experiences this winter. You can book Christmas Twilight trains. “Watch the musical arrival of the steam train at Perrygrove Station then take your pre-booked seats aboard the Twilight Express. Spot the illuminations along the line to Oakiron Station where you will watch the Perrygrove Christmas Panto, (from your compartment), featuring Father Christmas. Everyone receives a hot chocolate and children receive a token gift, (these are wooden tree decorations unique to Perrygrove).” Plus Down the Chimney Shows
Address: Perrygrove Rd, Coleford GL16 8QB
When? Selected dates in December
How much? Twilight trains – tickets from £36-72.
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Best Santa Special Train Rides Yorkshire
Embsay and Bolton Abbey Railway – Polar Express – North Yorkshire – Tickets on sale
Do you believe? We certainly do and that is why we are proud to be hosting an exciting magical experience like no other. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is coming to the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway with the magic of the 2004 motion picture.
Chris Van Aullsburg’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.
Address: Bolton Abbey Station, Bolton Abbey, Skipton BD23 6AF
When? Selected dates in November and December.
How much? Prices vary. From £33.95 per person
North Yorkshire Moors Railway – Santa Specials – North Yorkshire – Tickets on Sale
Join Santa and his special team of elves at either Pickering or Grosmont Station before a magical adventure aboard the Santa Express which will take you on a festive journey you won’t forget!
This enchanting Christmas experience sees Mr. Claus and his jolly helpers pass through the heritage carriages, giving children a chance to meet the legendary man himself on board the train, and gifting a special soft toy present to the children onboard – providing they’ve managed to keep themselves off the naughty list this year!
Santa will visit you in your seat and check if you’ve been good or bad.
Meet Santa’s Helpers onboard for fun and games!
Soft toy for Children aged 1-15 which they can complete themselves.
NYMR Christmas backpack.
The return journey lasts approx. 1 hour on board the Santa Express from Pickering or Grosmont.
Address: 12 Park St, Pickering YO18 7AJ
When? 25, 26 November, 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 & 24 December
How much? The Adult or Child fare is £30 per person and includes a present and backpack for each child.
Wensleydale Polar Express – North Yorkshire – Tickets on sale now – SELLING FAST
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.
Address: Leeming Bar Station, Leases Road, Leeming Bar, North Yorkshire, DL7 9AR
When? Various dates from 10th November until 23rd December.
How much? Standard tickets from £31.95
Keighley & Worth Valley Railway – Elf Explorer – West Yorkshire – Tickets on Sale
A magical Christmas experience that is guaranteed to light up your children’s faces and get the whole family in the mood for the Festive Season. This theatrical journey on board a beautiful steam train is the perfect way to travel, and we know that Father Christmas thinks so too.
Your adventure starts with a journey through our Winter Wonderland and into Santa’s workshop. Our elf will check you in and check if you’ve been naughty or nice! You must check in to collect your golden tickets to travel on the Elf Explorer. Please ensure that you give the age of the present you have booked when age stickers are given out.
Children can write a letter to Santa and complete other activities whilst parents may wish to visit ‘Rudolph’s refreshments’, visit our fully stocked bar for a Christmas tipple, or collect pre-booked drinks to take on the train. Please note that this year there isn’t an onboard bar and any drinks must be purchased beforehand and taken on board.
Address: The Railway Station, Haworth, BD22 8NJ
When? 25 & 26 November, 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17 & 21 – 24 December
How much? From £22-28.
Whistlestop Valley – Simply Santa & Santa Express – West Yorkshire – Tickets on sale
This festive season, you can choose from TWO special Santa events at Whistlestop Valley: “Simply Santa” or “The Santa Express.” Both events feature a trip aboard the heated carriages hauled by one of our steam locomotives; transporting you to the North Pole!
Whilst at the North Pole, you will have a one-on-one meeting with the big guy himself inside his cosy grotto, filled with sacks of presents for the good girls & boys. Santa’s cheeky elf will be causing Christmas chaos at the Shelley North Pole – will you spot them?!
Address: Park Mill Way, Clayton West, Huddersfield, West Yorkshire, HD8 9XJ
When? Selected dates in November and December
How much? Prices are available online, they start from £19.95 for an adult and from £24.95 for a child.
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Best Santa Special Trains East Midlands
Battlefield Line – Santa Specials – Leicestershire – Tickets on Sale
Following on from our highly successful 2022 Santa trains, we have listened to customer feedback and kept our Bronze, Silver and Gold ticket format. Last year was a complete sell-out, so book quick to avoid disappointment! There are 3 departure times each day. Enjoy a train ride with us on board Santa’s special train and meet Father Christmas!
Address: Shackerstone Station, Shackerstone CV13 6NW
When? Selected dates in November and December
How much? Prices start at £18 per person. Prebooking is essential.
Great Central Railway – Santa Express – Leicestershire – Tickets on Sale
Experience the enchantment of Christmas with a heartwarming journey on our heritage steam railway! Join us for a festive adventure as we invite you to meet Santa and his jolly helpers on the train!
The little ones will be delighted with our specially created Christmas Activity Pack, filled with games, puzzles, and colouring sheets. Santa knows how to spread happiness and cheer, and every child on board will receive a special Christmas gift from the man himself! The joy in their eyes will be priceless as they unwrap their surprises, and that’s not all! Each child will receive a drink and a treat onboard as well!
We haven’t forgotten about the grown-ups! As you enjoy the scenery and laughter of the children, indulge in a complimentary Irish Cream Liqueur and a delectable warm Mince Pie. It’s the perfect way to savour the season.
Address: Great Central Rd, Loughborough LE11 1RW
When? Services depart from 25th November through to 24th December
How much? Tickets from £24.
Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway – Santa Specials – Lincolnshire – Tickets on sale
Fun for all the family – all aboard the magical Christmas Express, immerse yourself in festive wonder as this very special train takes you on a journey to Lapland Central.
Whilst waiting to see Santa, inside cosy Mrs Claus’ Kitchen, adults can enjoy complimentary seasonal refreshments including mince pies, hot chocolate and mulled wine, with juice and biscuits for the children. There will be the chance to have a ride on Santa’s sleigh, write your letter to Santa, make your own Reindeer food and much more to keep all entertained!
Once it is your time, you will be led by our mischievous elves to the beautifully decorated Grotto to spend some quality one-to-one time with the man himself and receive a special gift.
Address: Lakeside Station, Kings Road, Cleethorpes, DN35 0AG
When? 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th, 22nd & 23rd December
How much? Adults £14.95-16.95, children 12 months – 16 years -£16.95-19.95 and infants are cheaper.
Lincolnshire Wolds Railway – Santa Specials – Lincolnshire – Tickets on Sale Soon
Santa will visit you during your journey. The total journey is just under 1 hour. Don’t forget to visit Santa’s Grotto after your journey to take your own photos.
We would love to see everyone wearing your best Christmas costumes/jumpers or something Christmassy – one elf in particular will be checking & telling Santa if you’ve co-operated ha-ha.
Address: Ludborough Station, Station Road, Ludborough, Lincolnshire, DN36 5SQ.
When? TBC
How much? £12 pp aged 12+ and children are £15 including a present. Under 1 year are £6.
Ecclesbourne Valley Railway – Santa’s Enchanted Journey – Derbyshire – Tickets on Sale
All passengers receive…
- A festive welcome to our beautifully decorated Wirksworth Station platform from our jolly elves
- The steam train ride from Wirksworth and return in a seasonally-decorated period carriage
- Festive entertainment from Santa’s team of elves during the journey
- A visit from Santa to your seat who has a present for every child
- Hot chocolate and cookies for every passenger on board
Address: Unit 1, Wirksworth Station, Coldwell St, Wirksworth, Matlock DE4 4FB
When? Selected dates from 25th November – 24th December
How much? Prices range from £95 to £105 for standard class. Other pricing options are available
Peak Rail – Santa and Steam – 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 Derbyshire countryside. 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 seats. Santa will have with him a wonderful age-suitable gift for all the children.
Children will receive a bottle of water and a small packet of sweets 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 available upon pre-booked request.)
Address: Matlock Station Station Yard, Matlock DE4 3NA
When? Saturdays: 2nd, 9th, 16th & 23rd. Sundays: 3rd, 10th, 17th & 24th & Friday 22nd
How much? Prices from £40 for a table for 2, from £60 for a table for 3 and from £80 for a table for 4.
Northampton and Lamport Railway – Santa Specials – Northamptonshire – Tickets On Sale
All tickets include a meet with Santa, a present for children and complementary on-train refreshments. All trains will be hauled by one of our steam locos, subject to its availability. Alternatively, trains will be hauled by one of our heritage diesel locos.
All tickets include complementary 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 the children receive a present.
Address: Pitsford Rd, Chapel Brampton, Northampton NN6 8BA
When? 26th Nov, 2nd, 3rd, 9th, 10th, 16th, 17th and 23rd Dec
How much? Adults from £14-18, children aged 1-15 from £15.50-19.50 and under 1s receiving a present are £6.90.
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Best Santa Special Trains West Midlands
Severn Valley Railway – Santa Trains – Worcestershire – Tickets on sale
The most wonderful time of the year calls for the most fantastic festive event – Santa Trains! Join us for Santa Trains on the Severn Valley Railway.
After walking through a winter wonderland at Kidderminster Station and collecting your complimentary hot drink and sweet treat, you’ll board the steam train in a private compartment or exclusive personal table to steam along the line to the beautifully decorated Arley station.
Here there are thrills, spills and plenty of laughs with a fabulous live stage show, featuring a host of festive characters alongside Father Christmas, including firm favourites Jingle and Jangle and NEW FOR 2023 Jack Frost! When you rejoin the train, each child will discover a premium-gift, waiting for them at their seat.
Address: Station Dr, Kidderminster DY10 1QX
When? Selected dates in November and December.
How much? A private compartment from £160 for up to 4 people, from £240 for up to 6 people. Table for four people from £144.
Churnet Valley Railway – The Polar Express – Staffordshire – Tickets on sale
Your journey begins at Froghall Station on the Churnet Valley Railway in Staffordshire, where we invite you 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 our 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!).
Address: Churnet Valley Railway, Kingsley & Froghall Station, Froghall, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire, ST10 2HA
When? Selected dates in November and December
How much? Prices from £38.95 per person.
Foxfield Railway – North Pole Express – Staffordshire – Tickets on Sale
The North Pole Express runs from the last weekend in November through to Christmas Eve and is a favourite for all ages.
The train is decorated to bring festive cheer and each child gets a gift from Santa plus there’s plenty of entertainment along the way and Christmas treats to eat and enjoy. Book your places on the North Pole Express now to avoid disappointment.
Here are some additional details…
- Every child receives a present from Santa.
- A cookie and soft drink for children and a festive tipple and mince pie for adults.
- Experience our festively decorated station.
- Be entertained onboard by Jack Frost and Baby Reindeer
- Your festive experience lasts approximately 1 hour
Address: Foxfield Railway Station, Caverswall Rd, Blythe Bridge, Stoke-on-Trent ST11 9BG
When? Selected dates from 25th November – 24th December
How much? Table for up to 4 people £82, Standard Compartment for up to 8 people £171 and slightly more for 1st class
Statfold Barn Railway – Magical Santa Express – Staffordshire – Tickets on sale
All aboard Statfold’s Magical Santa Express this Christmas for a festive day out for the whole family! Your enchanting journey starts in the North Pole Post Office, where younger Guests will write their letters to Santa (assisted by his team of trustworthy elves) before posting them into a magical post box. All before boarding a beautifully lit train to head to see the big man himself!
Meet the Big Man himself at Statfold this Christmas! With train rides, themed activities and more! This is the lowest these tickets will be… once gone they’re gone so be quick!
Address: Ashby Rd, Tamworth B79 0BU
When? Selected dates from 26th November until 23rd December
How much? Adults from £18.50, children from £23.50, under 3’s are free. Other pricing options are available. Pre-booking online is essential.
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Best Santa Special Trains East Anglia
Nene Valley Railway – Santa Express – Cambridgeshire – Tickets on sale
Your Christmas experience will start before your train departs. So please arrive approximately 1 hour before your train’s departure time to give you time to park, get checked in, your tickets stamped and, most importantly, visit Father Christmas in his Grotto. Our team of Christmas Elves will be there to show you where to go and to introduce you to Father Christmas himself.
Each child will receive a special gift when they visit the legendary man himself in his Cosy Grotto. Then it’s nearly time to board the train for your magical festive journey through the Nene Valley. On board, you will be joined by Father Christmas, who will walk through the train to say “Hi” one more time.
Address: Nene Valley Railway Ltd, Wansford Station, Stibbington, Cambridgeshire, PE8 6LR
When? Selected dates from 25th Nov to 24th December
How much? Prices start from £78 for a table for two and £156 for up to 4. Other pricing options are available. Prebooking is essential.
Audley End Miniature Railway – Christmas Special – Essex – Tickets on Sale
With the Nutcracker’s help, this winter you will board the Polar Express and journey deep into the Enchanted woods of Audley End to visit Santa’s winter workshop! Together, with her very helpful elves, Mother Christmas is ensuring all the toys are ready for Christmas Eve while Santa comes to visit you in your carriage with a gift for every child.
When departing the train, you will be greeted by Snowberry the frost fairy who will guide you through our illuminated woodland walk, home to our picture-perfect bauble tree, to meet our reindeer keepers Logan and Thorn. Here you can create your own reindeer feed bags to leave out for Rudolph on Christmas Eve! and more
Address: Audley End Rd, Audley End, Saffron Walden CB11 4JB
When? 18th November – 24th December
How much? Adults – £18.00 – £30.00, Children over 92cm – £18.00-£30.00, Child Under 92cm – £9.00-£15.00 and Child under 1 Year – Free.
Colne Valley Railway – Santa Specials – Essex – Tickets on Sale
We are pleased to say that Santa is visiting us again this year. You will meet Santa in his grotto before travelling on our diesel train to collect your present from Santa’s workshop.
If you are booking for more than 8, including children, please telephone 01787 461174 to ensure there is space. Please note you will be booking an arrival time slot, please arrive during this time slot.
Address: Castle Hedingham, Halstead CO9 3DZ
When? Selected dates from 2nd – 24th December
How much? £20 pp and under 3s are £10.
Epping Ongar Railway – Santa Specials – Essex – Tickets on sale
Bring the family to see Santa on his special train with the fantastically festive Epping Ongar Railway Santa Specials! The experience starts as you join our heritage bus service at either Epping Underground station or in Ongar.
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…read more on their website.
Address: Station Approach, Chipping Ongar, Ongar CM5 9BN
When? 25, 26 November; 2, 3, 9, 10, 16, 17, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 December
How much? Princes from £110 for a family of 4.
Bure Valley Railway – Festive Express – Norfolk – Tickets on sale
Hop on board one of our Festive Express steam trains this December. Enjoy a 1-hour experience from our Aylsham Station including festive treats, a 30-minute steam train ride and a visit to see Santa in his grotto. Each child will receive a personalised present from Santa himself.
Address: Aylsham Station, Norwich Rd, Aylsham, Norwich NR11 6BW
When? December 2nd – 24th
How much? From £22 per person
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 packs too, plus entertainers and balloon modellers who will stroll through the train spending time in each carriage for part of the journey.
Your journey will break at Holt as the engine switches end, giving you the chance to hop off and take photographs with the historic locomotive or to visit the onboard bar.
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.
The whole experience lasts approximately 1 hour and 45 minutes from the time your train departs Sheringham to arriving back at the station.
Address: Sheringham Station, North Norfolk Railway PLC, Station Approach, Sheringham NR26 8RA
When? 25th November – 23rd December
How much? Fares range between £24.50 and £29.50 per person depending on the time & date of travel.
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Best Santa Special Trains North East
Weardale Railway – Santa Specials – County Durham – SOLD OUT
All aboard for a magical journey through the Weardale countryside this Christmas! Four trains a day will depart from a festively decorated ‘Santahope’ Station at 1030, 1240, 1450 and 1700 (except for Christmas Eve when only the 1030 and 1240 services will operate).
The journey will take approximately an hour and you will be accompanied throughout by Santa’s elves and our team.
Meet Santa and Mrs Claus with every child receiving a gift from Santa!
Address: Sheringham Station, North Norfolk Railway PLC, Station Approach, Sheringham NR26 8RA
When? Dates from 25th November – 24th December
How much? SOLD OUT
More Christmas Events North East
Best Santa Special Trains North West
Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway – Santa Express – Cumbria – SOLD OUT
Our magical Santa Express trains make a welcome return in 2023. Join us for a festive treat at the railway, where our elves will be on hand at Ravenglass to allocate seats on the Santa Express. The 40-minute journey to Dalegarth is filled with excitement as you make your way up the valley to Dalegarth Grotto where Santa Claus and his team of helpers are on hand to welcome you including Stu Di Doo the magician and one of his festive puppets.
Children will be called up to meet Santa and receive a gift from the big man himself. Children will also receive an activity pack and some festive refreshments. Grownups are not without favour and will receive a festive snack and drink whilst the train waits at Dalegarth station for the return journey back to Ravenglass.
Address: Station, Main St, Ravenglass CA18 1SW
When? 25th Nov – 26th Nov, 2nd Dec – 3rd Dec, 9th Dec – 10th Dec, 16th Dec – 18th Dec, 20th Dec – 23rd Dec
How much? This event is sold out
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