Santa Train Rides For Christmas in the UK

If you’re looking for Christmas days out for kids that are a little different to the usual Santa’s Grotto, why not try one of these Santa Train Rides? Meet Santa on one of these Christmas train services near you, enjoy a mince pie and kids on the good list will be given a present!

My kids loved this – the atmosphere is buzzing, with everyone so excited to meet the main man himself!

The Christmas train services run from various spots in the UK and vary from the popular Polar Express-themed rides to shorter rides run by steam train enthusiasts spreading Christmas cheer, but all have Santa and some offer further attractions and activities all included in the price too!

We’ve organised these festive train rides by county, so you should be able to find one fairly close to you in England and hopefully Northern Ireland, Scotland, Wales, and the Channel Islands too! Some of these trains get sold out pretty quickly but fear not, here are some more of the Best Family Christmas Breaks in The UK you can still enjoy with your family.

What to Wear on the Santa Trains.

Anything goes, but festive jumpers, dresses, hats, and hairbands are always spotted. If you are on one of the Polar Express Train rides then pyjamas are very much encouraged (along with dressing gowns.) Here are some Christmassy PJ ideas including Polar Express PJs and onsies too.

Steam train enthusiasts will love an opportunity to grab a photo of the engine. If this is a wish, do arrive a bit earlier as this part is popular.

Santa Train Rides in England

Santa Train Rides in Bedfordshire

Leighton Buzzard Railway Santa’s Steam Specials

Essential Information:

• Dates: Dec 2024 (1, 4, 7, 8, 11, 14, 15, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24)
• Ticket Prices: Adult (13 and over)£13.00 Child (2 to 12, including present) £14.00 Child (under 2, including present) £9.00
• Location: Page’s Park Station, Billington Road, Leighton Buzzard, Bedfordshire LU7 4TG.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Santa Trains in Bristol

Avon Valley Railway Santa Special

This year, the present will be in the form of a bespoke Avon Valley Railway donkey-themed plush toy. This will be offered to all children regardless of age (it’s suitable from birth).

Essential Information

• Dates:November: 23,24, 30th. December dates: 1, 6,7,8,13,14,15,20,21,22,23,24
• Ticket Prices: From £23 per seat with up to 5% discount when you book seven or more seats
• Location: Avon Valley Railway, Britton Station, 3 Bath Road, Bristol, BS30 6HD.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Donkey’s available to see on the platform before and after the train ride. You’ll be able to see these on the lawn at Bitton Station, either before or after you’ve travelled on the train. If you are travelling the last train of the day, please make sure you see the donkeys before you board the train.

Santa Train Rides in Cambridgeshire

Nene Valley Railway Santa Steam Express The North Pole Adventure

Begin in the Enchanted Forest with Bramble and discover whether you have made the good list this year. Then meet Frostine, the winter fairy, who will guide you on your wondrous experience and help you to reach the North Pole.
Finally you will arrive at Father Christmas’s Workshop where Santa’s elves will ask for your help to make sure everything is ready this year for the big day.
After you have completed all your preparations, it is time to meet Santa himself along with Mrs Claus.  He will thank each of you and you will receive a gift early this year.

Please note no food is included but a Festive drinks box instead (random selection of soft & alcoholic drinks) Alternatively, the café will be providing food, which can ONLY be pre-ordered via their website.

When you place your booking you will select a check-in time. This is the time your entertainment will
begin. It is recommended that you arrive at Wansford Station Car Park approximately 20 mins
before your check-in time.

Essential Information

• Dates: 30^th November to 24^th December 2024. 30^th November, 8^th, 14^th, 15^th, 20^th, 21^st, 22^nd and 24^th December 2024
• Ticket Prices: Adult Standard Ticket £35.00, Child Standard Ticket (1 to 15 years old) £35.00
  Child Standard Ticket (Under 1 years old) £5.00, Compartment (Up to 8 people) £225.00, Festive Lounge (Up to 16 people) £640.00
• Location: Nene Valley Railway Ltd, Wansford Station, Stibbington, Peterborough, Cambridgeshire, PE8 6LR.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Yes.
  

Santa Train Rides in Cornwall

Bodmin and Wenford Railway Santa by Steam

Essential Information:

• Dates: Weekends in December, including dates of 23rd and 24th
• Ticket Prices: Adult £15.95, Child £19.95, Child (Under 2) – £10.95, Senior/Concession £14.95, Carer £7.50, Family of 2+2 £69.00, Family of 2+1 £49.00
• Location: General Station, Bodmin, Cornwall, PL31 1AQ.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Yes

Santa Train Rides in Cumbria

Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway Santa Specials

Essential Information:

• Dates: 23rd Nov – 24th Nov, 30th Nov – 1st Dec, 7th Dec – 8th Dec, 13th Dec – 15th Dec, 20th Dec – 23rd Dec
• Ticket Prices: Adults £30, Under One (Present and on knee) £17.50, Under One (Present and allocated Seat) £30, 1 to 17 year old (Boy and Girl Gifts) £30, Under One (No present and on knee) £0.
• Location: Ravenglass and Eskdale Railway, Ravenglass, Cumbria, CA18 1SW.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Performance Stu Di Doo the magician

Santa Train Rides in Derbyshire

Peak Rail Santa and Steam Specials

Essential Information:

• Dates: 30(Nov)/1/7/8/14/15/21/22/23/24th December
• Ticket Prices: 30(Nov)/1/7/8/14 & 15th December – Table of 2 – £40, Table of 3 – £60 (This is Coach F, Table 8 Only), Table of 4 – £80, Compartment of 6 – £120. 21/22/23/24th December: Table of 2 – £50, Table of 3 – £70 (This is Coach F, Table 8 Only), Table of 4 – £90, Compartment of 6 – £130. Tickets are sold by Table.
• Location: Matlock Station, Matlock, Derbyshire, DE4 3NA
• Additional Onsite Activities? 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.

Midland Railway – Butterley

See Santa on the train with a gift for every child and a drink for every adult.

A cookie will be delivered to your seat for all adults and children and colouring book and pencils for each child.

Enjoy the Pinxton Puppet Show in a heated and decorated marquee after your train journey.and the Animatronics tableau.

A selection of snacks, soft drinks and alcoholic drinks are available at the on-train bar located in the buffet car.

Essential Information:

• Dates: Selected dates from 30th November until 24th December 2024
• Ticket Prices: Adult Heritage Rail Day Ticket from £12.00 to £16.00, Over 60 Heritage Rail Day Ticket from £11.00 to £15.00, Child (3-15) Heritage Rail Day Ticket from £6.00 to £8.00, Child (under 3) Heritage Rail Day Ticket Free, Family Heritage Rail Day Ticket from £30.00 to £40.00 (2 adults + up to 3 children)
• Location: Midland Railway Trust, Butterley Station, Ripley, Derbyshire, DE5 3QZ
• Additional Onsite Activities? Yes, Enjoy the Pinxton Puppet Show in a heated and decorated marquee after your train journey.and the Animatronics tableau.

Santa Train Rides in Devon

South Devon Railway Polar Express South Devon

The Polar Express is one where pyjama wearing is positively encouraged as you head from Buckfastleigh to Totnes on your Santa steam train!

Essential Information:

• Dates: 29 & 30th Nov and 1/6/7/8/13/14/15/18/19/20/21/22/23/28 & 29th Dec
• Ticket Prices: Starts from as little as £42.90 Adult (18+), Adult (18+) with Lap Infant (Under 2) £47.90, Child (2-17) £42.90
• Location: South Devon Railway, The Station, Dartbridge Road, Buckfastleigh, Devon, TQ11 0DZ.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Santa’s Workshop and after the show, there’ll be a photo opportunity, be sure to bring a selfie stick.

Seaton Tramway Polar Express Seaton

A special festive tram with the Polar Express theme! Yes, all kids still receive the sleigh bell!

Essential Information:

• Dates: 23rd Nov – 24th Nov 2024, 29th Nov – 1st Dec 2024, 6th Dec – 8th Dec 2024, 13th Dec – 15th Dec 2024 , and 17th Dec – 24th Dec 2024.
• Ticket Prices: Adult from £27.00 to £40.00, Child (2-15) from £27.00 to £40.00, and Child Under 2 Free
• Location: Seaton Tramway, Harbour Road, Seaton, Devon, EX12 2NQ.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Yes

Christmas Train of Lights Dartmouth

A light show and Santa combined! A festive illuminated journey starts at Queen’s Park Station, Paignton, where a train with vintage carriages awaits you – decorated with thousands of lights, both inside and out. Fifteen minutes later, once you’ve had time to settle back into your seat, you will arrive at Churston Station where the show begins. As the anticipation builds and minutes after leaving Churston, you will be propelled through the 450-metre Greenway tunnel that leads you to the enchanted forest which will be transformed by a multitude of lights with brand new feature displays – plus some old favourites! The stunning show ends as you leave the forest only to be greeted by the twinkling lights of Dartmouth reflected on the river Dart. After a turnaround at Kingswear and with the opportunity to disembark and take photographs from the platform, you will be on your way back to Paignton.  

Santa does not visit if you book Train of Lights only.

Essential Information:

• Dates: 29th & 30th Nov. 1st, 5th, 6th, 7th, 8th, 11th, 12th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 16th, 17th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 27th, 28th, 29th & 30th Dec.
• Ticket Prices: Adult £22.50, Child £16.00, Family £70.00
• Location: Dartmouth Steam Railway, Paignton Station, Queen’s Park Station, Paignton, TQ4 6AF
• Additional Onsite Activities?
• N.B Mulled wine and mince pies are not offered on this service
• There is no pantomime on the train or at either Queen’s Park Station or Kingswear stations

Santa Trains in Essex

Audley End Miniature Railway

Audley End Christmas Special

Essential Information:

• Dates: 21 Nov – 24 Dec
• Ticket Prices: Adults & Children over 92cm: £29.50 – £40, Children under 92cm: £14.75 – £20, Children under 1 year, Carer and disabled: Free
• Location: Audley End Miniature Railway, Audley End Road, Audley End, Saffron Waldon, Essex CB11 4JB.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Train ride to meet Father Christmas, Mother Christmas, and their Elves, Gift for every Child, Letter Writing, Illuminated Christmas walk to the Reindeer Food Factory, Holly the Christmas Fairy Storytelling Show, and Adventure Play Area.

Epping Ongar Railway Santa’s Special Trains

Essential Information:

• Dates: 23, 24, 30 November; 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 December
• Ticket Prices: 23, 24 November (Early Bird tickets) Family space in standard coaches (up to 2 people): £55. Family space in standard coaches (up to 4 people): £110. Quiet Compartment for up to 8 people: £250. 30 November, 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 19, 20 December (Standard tickets) Family space in standard coaches (up to 2 people): £60. Family space in standard coaches (up to 4 people): £120. Quiet Compartment for up to 8 people: £275. 21, 22, 23, 24 December (Premium tickets) Family space in standard coaches (up to 2 people): £65. Family space in standard coaches (up to 4 people): £130. Quiet Compartment for up to 8 people: £300.
• Location: North Weald Station, Station Road, North Weald Bassett, Epping, Essex, CM16 6BW.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Santa Train Rides in Gloucestershire

Dean Forest Railway Santa Specials

Essential Information:

• Dates: 23/24/30 Nov , 1/4/7/8/11/14/15/18/21/22/24 Dec
• Ticket Prices: Adult Ages 18+: £ 19.75, Child Ages 3-17: £ 19.75, Under 3 With present and seat allocation: £ 19.75, Under 3 With present but no seat allocation: £ 10.75, and Under 3 No present or seat allocated: Free.
• Location: Dean Forest Railway, Norchard Station, Forest Road, Lydney, Gloucestershire. GL15 4ET.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway Santa Experiences 

Essential Information:

• Dates: 23rd, 24th, 30th November and 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, 20th, 21st, 22nd and 23rd December 2024.
• Ticket Prices: Adult £28.50 and Child £28.50
• Location: The Railway Station, New Town, Toddington, GL54 5DT.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Santa Train Rides in Hampshire

Isle of Wight Steam Railway Santa Specials

Essential Information:

• Dates: Saturday 7, Sunday 8 & Friday 13 to Tuesday 24 December
• Ticket Prices: Adult – £22, Child 5-17yrs – £20, and Infant – £15
• Location: The Railway Station, Main Road, Havenstreet, Ryde, PO33 4DS.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Yes

Santa Train Rides in Kent

Spa Valley Railway Polar Express

Another of the franchised Polar Express rides (there are 11 within the UK). 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. Don’t forget your PJs!

Essential Information:

• Dates: 9/10/15/16/17/22/23/24/28/29/30 Nov 1/5/6/7/8/11/12/13/14/15/18/19/20/21/22/23rd Dec
• Ticket Prices: starting between £38.95 to £43.95
• Location: Wealden Railway Co. Ltd, West Station, Nevill Terrace, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN2 5QY.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Back at Tunbridge Wells, you can write a letter to Santa, see who in your family has been naughty or nice this year, and check out the gift shop for souvenirs of your trip.

East Kent Railway Santa by Train

Take a ride onboard the festively decorated train and meet Santa in the grotto where each child will receive a gift. This a really good value Santa train!

Essential Information:

• Dates: 24 & 30th Nov 1/7/8/14/15/21/22/23/24 Dec
• Ticket Prices: 4 seats £40.00 (can be a mixture if adults and children)
• Location: East Kent Railway, Station Road, Shepherdswell, Dover, Kent, CT15 7PD.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Kent & East Sussex Railway Santa Special

All aboard the Santa train to enjoy a magician and a free photo of your group. There is a complimentary refreshment pack for each family to enjoy during the journey and an age-appropriate present for all children 11 and under. Children aged 12-15 receive chocolates. Visit the station’s Winter Wonderland and check when you can see the Victorian Carol singers (selected dates only)

Standard Class Table for up to 4 people, Babies under 18 months of age are free of charge and receive a gift

Essential Information:

• Dates: 30 Nov, 1/7/8/14/15/21/22/24 Dec
• Ticket Prices: Standard class (£100 for 2 people, £110 for 3 people and £120 for 4 people). First class (£250 for up to 4 people, £330 for up to 6 people and £400 for up to 8 people). Premium first (£375 for up to 6 people).
• Location: Tenterden Town Station, Station Road, Tenterden, Kent, TN30 6HE.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Free rides on the vintage gallopers at Tenterden

Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway Santa Specials

Essential Information:

• Dates: 23rd, 24th, 30th November, 1/7/8/14/15/21/22/23/24 December
• Ticket Prices: Adult £29.50, Child (1-15 years) £29.50, Child (under 1) £15.00
• Location: Romney, Hythe & Dymchurch Railway, New Romney Station, New Romney, Kent TN28 8PL.
• Additional Onsite Activities? A visit to the Model Railway Exhibition at New Romney before your train journey begins.

Santa Trains in Lancashire

Ribble Steam Railway Santa Special

Essential Information:

• Dates: Unknown if it will run for 2024
• Ticket Prices:
• Location: Ribble Steam Railway, Chain Caul Road, Preston, Lancashire, PR2 2PD.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Tickets include access to the festively trimmed museum and there will be live music and you might even spot the odd elf or two! PLUS there will be FREE Face painting and balloon art from Gina of Tigerfeet Entertainment.

West Lancashire Light Railway Santa Specials

Essential Information:

• Dates:8th/14th/15th/21st/22nd December
• Ticket Prices: Fares are Adult £5, Child £4, Family (2+2) £14, Senior/armed forces concession £4.50.
• Location: West Lancashire Light Railway, Station Rd, Hesketh Bank, Nr Preston, Lancashire, PR4 6SP.
• Additional Onsite Activities?

Santa Train Rides Leicestershire

Great Central Railway Santa Train Loughborough

Essential Information:

• Dates: From 25th November through to 24th December
• Ticket Prices: from £24.00
• Location: Quorn and Woodhouse Station, Woodhouse Road, Quorn, LE12 8AG.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Santa Train Rides in London

Steam Dreams Santa Steam Express

The first Santa train in London which ran in 2023! This magical trip offered families a chance to meet Santa and his helpers on a steam train departing from and returning to London Victoria.  The extra special journey takes approximately one hour and 15 minutes. First and standard-class tickets are available with First Class adults offered a mulled wine.

Children will be welcomed on board with a drink and a sweet treat before meeting Santa and his elves with their bag of gifts. Children under 2 do not require a seat. Expect Christmas tunes, carols, and themed carriages. https://yorkshirewonders.co.uk/the-santa-steam-express-london

Essential Information:

• Dates: 20th and 21st December 2024
• Ticket Prices: club class £75 per person, coach class £55 per person, and private compartments £550 (6 people maximum)
• Location: Victoria Station, Victoria St, London SW1E 5ND
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Brand New Polar Express Euston!

All aboard! The Conductor’s cheerful call echoes through the platform as the chefs welcome you onto the train. Once you’re seated, the magic begins. As the train gently pulls away from Euston, familiar songs from The Polar Express fill the air, performed by the lively chefs and, if you’re lucky, the Conductor himself.

As you depart, the beloved story of The Polar Express unfolds around you. Characters like the chefs, the Conductor, and maybe even the mysterious ghost on the train will bring the magical tale to life, drawing you into the heart of the adventure.

Along the way, you’ll be treated to rich hot chocolate and a scrumptious cookie—perfect for making memories with your loved ones. Don’t forget to capture the magic with photos and videos as you enjoy this enchanting journey on The Polar Express™ Train Ride at Euston.

Please note, large bags / pushchairs and suitcases are NOT allowed on board the train, Allergy alternatives are available. Please ask a chef on board.
Under 2s will only receive a Gift bell and no food or drink.

Essential Information:

• Dates: 6,7,8,13,14,15/, 20, 21, 23/ Dec 2024
• Times; 10;30 -18:30 and last 1.5 hours.
• Ticket Prices: from £59.95 to £65.95 with a £3.95 booking fee.
• Location:  Euston Station, London. NW1 2RT.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Santa Train Rides in Norfolk

Mid Norfolk Railway Polar Express

Scenes from the Polar Express film come to life as dancing Chefs and Waiters arrive to serve cookies and hot chocolate when are are seated in your carriage.

Listen as the story of The Polar Express is told in its entirety and notice other key elements of the story — both inside and outside your train — springing to life. Watch and listen as another scene unfolds on board before your eyes.

Upon arrival at the North Pole, keep your eyes peeled for Santa’s sleigh, a bag of toys, and a giant Christmas tree. Watch out for Santa waving and, when the train stops, listen out for the carriage door to slam as Santa gets on board. After the train departs the North Pole for the return voyage home, you soon notice that the adventure isn’t over. Santa appears in your midst to present each passenger with their very own “First Gift of Christmas”, a silver bell from his sleigh.

Essential Information:

• Dates: 9/10/15/16/17/20/21/22/23/24/27/28/29/30 Nov and 1/4/5/6/7/8/11/12/13/14/15/18/19/20/21/22/23
• Ticket Prices: from £33.95 – £41.95
• Location: The Railway Station, Station Road, Dereham, Norfolk, NR19 1DF.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

North Norfolk Railway Santa Specials

Essential Information:

• Dates: 23/24/30 Nov and 1/7/8/14/15/20/21/22/23 Dec
• Ticket Prices: range between £26.00 and £33.50 per person depending on the time & date of travel. Compartments range from £150.00 to £215.00 per compartment. Under 1’s travel for a reduced fee of £8.50 providing they do not occupy a seat.
• Location: North Norfolk Railway, Sheringham Station, Station Approach, Sheringham, Norfolk, NR26 8RA
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Bure Valley Railway Festive Express

Essential Information:

• Dates: 7/8/14/15/21/22/23/24 Dec
• Ticket Prices: Adult £24.00, Child (up to 15 yrs) £24.00 and Baby in Arms £0
• Location: Bure Valley Railway, Aylsham Station, Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk, NR11 6BW.
• Additional Onsite Activities?

Santa Train Rides in Oxfordshire

Cholsey and Wallingford Railway Polar Express Not running for 2024

Didcot Railway Centre Steam into Christmas

Essential Information:

• Dates: Weekends 30th November, 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th, December plus Saturday 21st, Sunday 22nd and Monday 23rd December.
• Ticket Prices: Child (Ages 1 – 15) £25.00, child under 1 FREE, Adult £20.00, and Adult Member £5.00
• Location: Didcot Railway Centre, DIDCOT, Oxfordshire, OX11 7NJ.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Santa Train Rides in Shropshire

Telford Steam Railway Polar Express Telford

Your golden tickets arrive a few weeks before the magical journey. Like all the other Polar Express trains, this event sells out very quickly.

We recommend arriving about an hour before, so you have plenty of time to park and ride to Telford Steam Railway. For those in premium seating, you will receive an additional Polar Express mug in a sparkly silver bag waiting for you when you board.

You’ll find all passengers, children and adults are in pyjamas and dressings gowns. This heritage steam train puffs away, whilst the singing chefs (with hot chocolate and cookies for all), the conductor (who will punch holes in the shape of your initial on your golden ticket), make their through the train with plenty of songs, merriment and cheer.

Watch out for the Polar Express ghost too! As the train stops, you’ll see a familiar face waving at you from a platform. Santa boards the train and gives the first gift of Christmas.

Read more about the Telford Polar Express experience here.

Essential Information:

• Dates: 22/23/24/29/30th Nov, 1/3/4/5/6/7/8/10/11/12/13/14/15/17/18/19/20 Dec
• Ticket Prices: Standard tickets (£7.00 – £77.99), Premium tickets (£7.00 – £107.99), S.E.N.D standard tickets (£69.99 – £71.99), and S.E.N.D premium tickets (£93.99 – £95.99). Each individual ticket covers two seats. i.e 2 tickets = 4 seats.
• Location: The Old Loco Shed, Bridge Road, Horsehay, Telford, Shropshire, TF4 3UH.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Yes. A magician before boarding and food and drink. and afterwards an entertainment tent with fabric snowballs to throw, crafts and games and a naughty and nice detector plus a souvenir shop.

Santa Train Rides in Staffordshire

Churnet Valley Railway Polar Express Churnet Valley

The adventure begins when you are served Hot Chocolate and a Cookie at your seat by the singing Chefs. Make sure you have your tickets ready as the Conductor will need to see them, once he has finished punching tickets he will be back to show off his impressive dance moves. Look out for the Hobo too and of course Santa with a silver bell gift.

When the train returns to Froghall why not take the opportunity to write a letter to Santa? Not forgetting to check out whether you are on the naughty or nice list. The journey is about 1 hour and the whole experience is 1.5 hours.

Essential Information:

• Dates: 16/17/22/23/24/29/30 Nov, 1/6/7/8/12/13/14/15/16/17/18/19/20/21/22/23 Dec
• Ticket Prices: Standard class (from £28.95 and £41.95 towards Christmas) and Premium class (from £39.95 and £52.95 towards Christmas)
• Location: Churnet Valley Railway, Kingsley and Froghall Station, Froghall, Staffordshire, ST10 2HA.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Leek and Rudyard Railway Santa Specials Not running for 2024

Amerton Railway Santa Specials

Board a steam train at Amerton Station and travel to Toyland to meet Santa. Each compartment will receive a goodie bag with Haribo sweets, Amerton Railway colouring sheets, and colouring pencils. Children receive a hand-picked Christmas present from Santa, and for the adults, a warm mince pie and sherry.  The entire experience lasts about 25 minutes so good for wrigglers!

Essential Information:

• Dates: Saturday 30th November, 1st December, 7th,8th ,14th,15th ,21st,22nd and
  Tuesday 24th December (Christmas Eve!)
• Ticket Prices: Standard Compartment (Vixen Class)
• Location: Amerton Railway, Stowe-by-Chartley, Nr. Weston, Staffordshire, ST18 0LA
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Santa Trains In Suffolk

Mid Suffolk Light Railway Santa Specials 

The MSLR Santa Specials are special steam events where you can take your children on a magical journey from Brockford Station to meet Santa at North Pole Halt. Steam trains run from Brockford Station to ‘North Pole Halt’, for an individual visit to Santa at his Christmas Guards Van and each child receives a present. On the return from their Santa visit passengers will find Christmas crafts, hot drinks, and snacks will be available to buy, and for the grown-ups, a complimentary cup of festive mulled wine.

Essential Information:

• Dates: 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th, 15th and 21st December.
• Ticket Prices: Adult (16 and over) £12, Child (age 5 to 15) £6, Concession (over 65) £10, Family (2+2) £30, Essential carer Free with full paying disabled visitor, Under 5’s Free
• Location: Mid Suffolk Light Railway, Brockford Station, Wetheringsett, Stowmarket, Suffolk, IP14 5PW.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Santa Trains in Sussex

Bluebell Railway Santa Specials

The whole experience will take around 2 hours from Sheffield Park and 2 hours 15 minutes from East Grinstead. Chocolate coins will be given to all children to be enjoyed on their journey.

Essential Information:

• Dates: 30th Nov, 1/7/8/14/15/21/22/23/24th Dec
• Ticket Prices: £30.00 pp and Infants under 3 years can be booked with any Adult or Compartment Ticket. Receives a gift but no seat. Compartments from as little as £180.00
• Location: Sheffield Park Station, East Sussex, TN22 3QL.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Traditional inclusive amusement attractions at Horsted Keynes.

Santa Trains In Somerset

Yeovil Railway Centre Santa Specials

Your visit is likely to last around an hour and includes a steam train ride, tea/coffee, and a mince pie with soft drink for the children and of course a visit to see Santa. The children will receive a carefully selected and appropriate gift. Trains run at 10.15am, 10.40am, 11.05am, 11.30am, 11.55am, 12.20pm, 1.40pm, 2.05pm, 2.30pm, 2.55pm and 3.30pm, except on Saturday 14 December 2024

Trains on Saturday 14 December 2024 run at 2pm, 2.25pm, 2.50pm, 3.15pm, 3.40pm, then after dark 5.05pm, 5.30pm, 5.55pm, 6.20pm, 6.45pm, 7.10pm.

Essential Information:

• Dates: 1/8/14/15/22/23 Dec
• Ticket Prices: Prices per person (adult or child) are £15.00 and babies under the age of 1 are not charged and we will provide a small present from Santa.
• Location: Yeovil Railway Centre – Yeovil Railway Centre, Yeovil Junction Station, Yeovil, BA22 9UU.
• Additional Onsite Activities?

Santa Trains in Wiltshire

Longleat Santa Train Rides

Adults can enjoy a delicious hot chocolate and festive mince pie while children will receive a special Christmas gift

Essential Information:

• Dates: Selected dates from 9th November till 24 December 2024
• Ticket Prices: Child £23.50, Adult £7.50 and babies under 12 months, who do not require a gift, do not need a ticket
• Location: Longleat, Warminster, Wiltshire, BA12 7JS.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Santa Train Rides in Worcestershire

Severn Valley Railway Santa Specials

Meet two Christmas characters at the beautifully decorated station at Kidderminster. Enjoy hot chocolates in Santa mugs with gingerbread men, then travel by vintage steam train in reserved seats to Arley for a pantomime and to meet Santa. Re-board the train to find presents individually name tagged from Father Christmas. look out for photo opps at both stations, including Santa’s sleigh.

Essential Information:

• Dates: 30 Nov, 1/7/8/14/15/21/22/24th Dec
• Ticket Prices: Table of Two from £67.00 to £90.00, Table of Four from £133.00 to £181.00 compartment of Four from £140.00 to £190.00, Compartment of Six from £210.00 to £285.00, and additional passenger £35.00
• Location: Severn Valley Railway, Station Drive, Kidderminster, DY10 1QX.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Yes. After a ride, see your favourite characters in an all-new pantomime. After being entertained by Jingle, Jangle and friends, you’ll re-board the train where a present for each child awaits.

Evesham Vale Light Railway Santa Specials

Essential Information:

• Dates: 30 Nov, 1/7/8/14/15/21/22/23/24 Dec
• Ticket Prices: Adult @ £11.00, Child (Ages 2-16) @ £15.00, Child Aged 1 @ £7.50, Under 1 @ £0.00
• Location: Evesham Vale Light Railway, The Valley, Evesham, WR11 4DS.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Santa Train Rides in Yorkshire

North York Moors Railway Santa Reimagined

Essential Information:

• Dates: 30 November and 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 20 to 24 December
• Ticket Prices: 30 Nov & 1 Dec £29.50, 7-20 Dec £34.50, 21-24 Dec £39.50 per person. Child tickets are for children aged between one and fifteen years old. Babies under one may sit on a parent or guardian’s lap free of charge, with no ticket required, unless you would like them to have a gift, then a child ticket is required.
• Location: Pickering and Grosmont Stations, Pickering, North Yorkshire, YO18 7AJ.
• Additional Onsite Activities?  Meet Santa’s Helpers onboard for fun and games!

Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway Santa Specials

Essential Information:

• Dates: 15/16/17/29/30 Nov, 1/5/6/7/8/12/13/14/15/17/18/19/20/21/22/23/24th Dec
• Ticket Prices: starting from £33.95 and £57.95
• Location: Bolton Abbey Station, Bolton Abbey, Skipton, North Yorkshire, BD23 6AF.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Keighley & Worth Valley Railway The Elf Explorer

Essential Information:

• Dates: 23rd, 24th, 30th November, 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th & 15th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd & 24th Dec
• Ticket Prices: 23rd & 24th November £24.00/ 30th November, 1st, 7th, 8th, 14th & 15th December £28.00/ 21st, 22nd, 23rd & 24th December £32.00. An adult can have a child of 0-6 months on their lap included in the price. An adult can have a child of 7-23 months on their lap for an additional £10.00
• Location: Keighley & Worth Valley Railway, The Railway Station, Haworth, West Yorkshire, BD22 8NJ
• Additional Onsite Activities? Meet the Real Reindeer, who have flown in for some photo opportunities. Visit the Christmas Market and pick up a little treat and live Christmas Music to get you in the festive mood.

Middleton Railway Santa Specials

Essential Information:

• Dates: Sunday 1st December, Saturdays and Sundays of the 7th & 8th, 14th & 15th, and 21st & 22nd and Christmas Eve (24th).
• Ticket Prices: Children (0 to 12 months, with no present and no seat): FREE.
• Child (0 to 2 years inclusive, with a present from Santa): £11.50 (£12.50 for 24th December)
• Child (3 to 10 years inclusive, with a present from Santa): £17 (£18 for 24th December)
• Young Person (11 to 15 inclusive, with no present from Santa): £8 (£9 for 24th December)
• Adult (16 and above): £13.50 (£14.50 for 24th December

Note: There are no walk-up tickets available on Christmas Eve journeys

• Location: Middleton Railway, Moor Road, Leeds, LS10 2JQ.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Wensleydale Railway Polar Express Yorkshire

The Polar Express departs from Leeming Bar station to the ‘North Pole’. You will be served Hot Chocolate and a Cookie at your seat by the singing Chefs. Throughout your journey, you may tangle with the caribou and other magical happenings, as you have the original story of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ told to you by the singing Chefs.

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. Don’t forget your PJs!

Essential Information:

• Dates: 9/10/16/17/22/23/24/28/29/30 Nov, 1/5/6/7/8/12/13/14/15/17/18/19/20/21/23 Dec
• Ticket Prices: from £53.90 to £58.90
• Location: Wensleydale Railway, Leeming Bar Station, Leases Road, Leeming Bar, Northallerton, DL7 9AR.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Santa Train Rides in Wales

Brecon Mountain Railway The Brecon Santa Train

Essential Information:

• Dates: 23/24/30th Nov, 1/3/4/5/7/8/10/11/12/14/15/17/18/19/20/21/22 Dec
• Ticket Prices: Adult £ 23, Child (2-15) £ 23, Infant (under 2) £ 10
• Location: The Brecon Mountain Railway, Pant Station, Merthry Tydfil, Mid Glamorgan, CF48 2DD.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Llanberis Lake Railway Santa Specials

Essential Information:

• Dates: Unknow if it will run for 2024
• Ticket Prices:
• Location: Gilfach Ddu, Llanberis, Caernarfon, Gwynedd, LL55 4TY.
• Additional Onsite Activities?

Santa Train Rides in Scotland

Caledonian Railway Polar Express

Tickets range from £28.95 to £53.95 per person plus booking fee for this wonderful theatrical extravaganza on board the Polar Express steam train as it travels from Brechin to the North Pole. 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. Don’t forget your PJs!

Essential Information:

• Dates: 23rd Nov, 24th Nov, 30th Nov, 1st Dec, 7th Dec, 8th Dec, 14th Dec, 15th Dec, 21st Dec, 22nd Dec
• Ticket Prices: Standard Tickets (£30.95 – £43.95), Premium Tickets (£42.95 – £53.95)
• Location: Caledonian Railway, The Station, Park Road, Brechin, DD9 7AF.
• Additional Onsite Activities? No

Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway Boness Santa Train

Santa will meet every family on boarding the train and hand out a quality present to all children and infants who have been good this year. The ride includes festive singers and a magician, on board the train.

Essential Information:

• Dates: 30 November and 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22 & 24 December 2024
• Ticket Prices: Adult (16 years+), £24 / Adult with Baby up to 17 months in arms, £24 / Child (3 to 15 years), £24 / Infant (18 months to 2 years), £20.00.
• Location: Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway, Bo’Ness Station, Union Street, Bo’ness, EH51 9AQ.
• Additional Onsite Activities? Miniature steam train ride at Bo’ness and entrance to Museum of Scottish Railways.

Santa Train Rides in Northern Ireland

Steam Trains Ireland Santa Train Rides

Essential Information:

• Dates: 30 Nov, 1/7/8/12/14/15/19/21/22 Dec
• Ticket Prices: Adult £15 / Child £23 / Compartment Supplement £8 (children under one are not required to pay but will receive a small complimentary gift).
• Location: Whitehead Excursion Station, Castleview Road, Whitehead, Carrickfergus, BT38 9NA
• Additional Onsite Activities? Opportunity for each child to speak to Santa and have a photograph with him.

Channel Island Santa Train Alderney Railway Santa Special

Essential Information:

• Dates: Not happening in 2024
• Ticket Prices:
• Location: Alderney Railway, 7 Rue de Beaumont, St. Anne, Guernsey
• Additional Onsite Activities?