Heritage railways up and down the country are getting into the festive spirit. Whether it’s the opportunity to meet Santa, impressive light displays, on board pantomimes or more relaxed Christmas dining, your local heritage railway is undoubtedly doing something to celebrate the season.
See below for some of our top recommendations.
- Christmas steam train events for children and families
- Top Christmas steam train experiences for adults 2024
- Steam train events between Christmas and New Years
Christmas steam train events for children and families
Plenty of heritage railways up and down the UK are hosting special Christmas events perfect for families, from meeting Santa aboard a steam train to carol services as you travel to the chance to board the Polar Express, there’s loads of choice this festive season!
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South East
Bure Valley Railway Festive Express
What? Enjoy a festive steam train experience in your own heated private compartment! Then once you’re back at Aylsham Station, meet Santa and his elves in his grotto. Santa will have a personalised present for each child.
When? 1 December – 24 December
Where? Aylsham Station, Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk, NR11 6BW
How much? £24 per person
Cholsey & Wallingford Railway Santa Express
What? Join Santa’s elves on a memorable steam train journey on this fantastic heritage railway before meeting Santa, with a special gift for every child. Adults will also receive a nice mince pie and complimentary festive drink while children get a drink and sweet treat from the Christmas Market before departure.
When? 23 November – 23 December
Where? Wallingford Station, 5 Hithercroft Road, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 9GQ
How much? From £22 per person, £5 under 2s
Colne Valley Railway Santa Special
What? Take a festive train ride before the chance to meet the man of the moment – Santa Claus himself! Everyone gets a present – even the dog!
When? 30 November – 24 December
Where? Colne Valley Railway, Castle Hedingham Station, Yeldham Rd, Castle Hedingham, Colne CO9 3DZ
How much? Adults and children £25, under 3s £10, dogs £4
Colne Valley Railway Twilight Christmas
What? Experience Colne Valley Railway in the dark with all the Christmas decorations lit up and shining to get you in the festive mood. The diesel railcar will be giving unlimited rides and there’ll be a buffet cart for hot food and drinks.
When? 7, 14, & 21 December
Where? Colne Valley Railway, Castle Hedingham Station, Yeldham Rd, Castle Hedingham, Colne CO9 3DZ
How much? Adults £14, Children £8
Mid-Norfolk Railway Polar Express
What? Recreate the magic of the 2004 motion picture THE POLAR EXPRESS™ on board a festive train ride. Be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale – even receiving your own Silver Sleigh Bell from Santa, and of course a cup of hot chocolate!
When? 9 November – 23 December
Where? Dereham, Norfolk, NR19 1DF
How much? From £29.95
Didcot Railway Centre – Help Santa find his missing reindeer!
What? For something a bit different, head along to Didcot Railway Centre, where it’s all hands on deck to find Santa’s missing reindeers before Christmas Eve! Explore the centre’s collection of steam locomotives, carriages, wagons, buildings and artefacts across the 21 acre museum whilst you locate the missing reindeers. Receive a special passport and stocking as you enter and a small gift for every reindeer you find, all culminating in a visit with Santa in his giant toy workshop.
When? 30 November to 23 December
Where? Didcot Railway Centre, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 7NJ
How much? Adults £22, Children £27.50
Didcot Railway Centre – A Christmas Carol
What? An exclusive performance of ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Gerald Dickens, the great great grandson of Charles Dickens! Explore over 200 years of Great Western Railway history before heading down to the transfer shed to watch the performance, with mulled wine and mince pies available during the interval.
When? 17 December
Where? Didcot Railway Centre, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 7NJ
How much? £38.50 per person
Lavender Line Santa Train
What? Meet Santa and receive a personalised present aboard a special extended train ride. Adults also receive a nice mince pie and mug of tea or coffee.
When? 7 – 22 December
Where? Isfield Station, TN22 5XB
How much? Adults £15, Children £18
The Bluebell Railway Santa’s SteamLights
What? Travel through the Sussex countryside aboard a magical steam train covered in thousands of colourful lights, all while seated in your own compartment. See festive-themed scenes and a colourful light show orchestrated to music.
When? 15 November – 31 December
Where? Horsted Keynes Station, RH17 7BB
How much? From £35
The Bluebell Railway Santa Special
What? Enjoy a trip through the countryside in your own cosy compartment all the way to Santa’s Parlour, where you’ll meet him and receive a present!
When? 30 November – 24 December
Where? Sheffield Park Station, TN22 3QL
How much? Compartment from £180
Watercress Line Steam Illuminations
What? An incredible sound and light show on a steam train with thousands of coloured LED lights creating a magical festive experience. Plus a full train Christmas karaoke experience!
When? 29 November – 28 December
Where? Alresford, Hampshire, SO24 9JG
How much? £32 per person, children under 2 FREE
Epping Ongar Lights Express
What? An incredible light show in and on a steam train! With thousands of coloured LED lights making everything look magical, it’ll be a night to remember!
When? 16 November – 12 January
Where? Ongar station, CM5 9AB
How much? £45 table for 2
Epping Ongar Santa Specials
What? Arrive and get into the spirit with food stalls and a brass band before boarding the train for a scenic journey. There’ll be entertainers on board and a visit from Santa with a present for all the good children!
When? 23 November – 24 December
Where? Ongar station, CM5 9AB
How much? From £55 for 2
South West
Avon Valley Railway Santa Specials
What? Enjoy a mince pie or festive biscuit on a festive journey through the Avon Valley before Santa himself passes through the train to say hello. Once back at Bitton Station each family will have another chance to meet Santa, who will give all the good boys and girls a present – a special Avon Valley Railway donkey soft toy! You’ll get to meet some real Christmas donkeys at Bitton Station too!
When? 23 November – 24 December
Where? Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD
How much? From £17 per person
Avon Valley Railway Carol Train
What? Ride a steam train and sing carols accompanied by the Bristol East and Kingswood Brass Band and some seasonal refreshments! Profits go to two children’s charities.
When? 7 December
Where? Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD
How much? Adults £12, Children £6, Under 5s FREE
Avon Valley Railway Breakfast with Santa
What? Enjoy breakfast in the first class dining carriage of a steam hauled festive train with the scenery of the Avon Valley passing by your window. Santa will then make a visit to the carriage and give all children and infants a special present.
When? 23 November – 24 December
Where? Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD
How much? From £27 per person
Dartmouth Steam Railway Train of Lights
What? This award-winning experience is an absolute must-see. Take a magical journey on a steam train hauling vintage carriages decked out with thousands of breath-taking Christmas lights, both inside and out. Sit back for a journey through the enchanted forest, featuring brilliant light displays. You can even add-on a meeting with Santa!
When? 29 November to 30 December
Where? Queen’s Park Rd, Paignton, TQ4 6AF
How much? Adults £29.95, children £21.95, family (2 adults, 2-3 children) £100
East Somerset Railway Santa by Starlight
What? Visit with Santa under the stars! Leaving from Cranmore at 4:30, you’ll embark on a 30 minute steam train journey with a goody bag full of festive activities. Then you’ll return to meet Santa in his grotto, with festive refreshments to enjoy as you wait. Santa will give a gift to each child.
There are also daytime trains.
When? 30 November – 23 December
Where? Cranmore Railway Station, Cranmore, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 4QP
How much? £23 per person, £6 for under 1s
South Devon Railway Polar Express
What? Recreate the magic of the 2004 motion picture THE POLAR EXPRESS™ on board a festive train ride. Be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale – even receiving your own Silver Sleigh Bell from Santa, and of course a cup of hot chocolate!
When? 29 November – 23 December
Where? The Station, Dartbridge Road, Buckfastleigh, Devon, TQ11 0DZ
Swanage Railway Polar Express
What? Recreate the magic of the 2004 motion picture THE POLAR EXPRESS™ on board a festive train ride. Be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale – even receiving your own Silver Sleigh Bell from Santa, and of course a cup of hot chocolate!
When? 23 November – 24 December
Where? Swanage Railway Station, Railway Station Approach, Swanage, Dorset, BH19 1HB
How much? From £39.95 per person, under 2s FREE
West Somerset Railway Panto Train
What? See Cinderella the Pantomime all while travelling from Bishops Lydeard to Williton. Prince Charming has chartered a Royal Train and needs your help finding Cinderella.
When? 14 December – 1 January
Where? Taunton, TA4 3BX
How much? £25 per person, under 2s FREE
East Midlands
Cleethorpes Coast Light Railway Santa Specials
What? Take a journey on the magical Jingle Belle! Meet Santa and receive a special gift. Also enjoy complimentary seasonal refreshments, have a ride on Santa’s sleigh, and make your own reindeer food!
When? 7 – 24 December
Where? Cleethorpes, DN35 0AG
How much? Adults £15.95, children £18.95, under 12 months £10.95
Ecclesbourne Valley Railway Santa’s Enchanted Journey
What? Santa needs some help making sure everything is ready for Christmas – join his elves aboard a magical steam train for some festive entertainment before meeting the man himself with a special present for each child, plus hot chocolate too!
When? 23 November – 24 November
Where? Wirksworth Station, Derbyshire, DE4 4FB
How much? From £60 for a table of four
The Great Central Santa Express
What? Celebrate the festive season with a steam train journey on the Grand Central Santa Express. Kids get the chance to meet the man himself and receive a special gift, as well as an exciting Christmas Activity pack and a drink and treat. Adults aren’t forgotten either, with a chance to enjoy a complimentary Irish Cream Liqueur and mince pie as they sit back and watch the fantastic scenery through the window.
When? 23 November – 24 December
Where? Loughborough Central, Great Central Road, Loughborough, LE11 1RW
How much? From £24 per person
Lincolnshire Wolds Railway Santa Specials
What? Take a heritage steam train journey through Lincolnshire, with a special appearance from Santa while on board. Santa and his elves will visit each carriage and each child will receive a gift.
When? 7– 15 December
Where? Ludborough Station, DN36 5SQ.
How much? £18 for adults, £15 for children over 13, £20 for children 1-12, Under 12 months £8
Midland Railway Santa Special Train
What? Enjoy a Christmas train ride accompanied by a meeting with Santa as he makes his way down the carriage to visit each child. There’s a gift for every child, plus the elves will deliver a colouring book, a cookie for every child and adult, and a drink for the adults too.
When? 30 November – 24 December
Where? Butterley Station, Ripley, Derbyshire, DE5 3QZ
How much? From £16.95 for adults and £14.95 for children
Nene Valley Railway North Pole Adventure
What? Journey through the forest to Santa’s workshop where children can help the elves make toys before meeting with Santa and Mrs Claus and receiving a Christmas present. There’ll be a whole host of on train entertainment and Christmas characters to meet.
When? 30 November – 24 December
Where? Wansford Station, Peterborough, PE8 6LR
How much? £35 per person, Under 1s £5
Northampton & Lamport Railway Santa Specials
What? Sit back and enjoy some complimentary refreshments onboard the train, with sherry and a mince pie for adults and a sweet treat and Fruit Shoot for kids. Once you get off the train you’ll meet Santa in his workshop and all children will receive a present!
When? 1 – 22 December
Where? Pitsford and Brampton Station, NN6 8BA
How much? Adults from £15, children from £16.50, under 12 months from £7.90
Northampton & Lamport Railway Breakfast with Santa
What? Enjoy a tasty breakfast in a First Class carriage, with a visit from Santa as you tuck in. Each child receives a goody bag and after the train ride you’ll meet Santa again in his grotto where each child will receive a present.
When? 7 – 22 December
Where? Pitsford and Brampton Station NN6 8BA
How much? From £125 for a table of 4
Peak Rail Santa Specials
What? Steam through the Derbyshire countryside as professional entertainers perform for you, followed by a meeting with Santa and his helpers as they make their way down the train. Each child will receive a gift from Santa, plus children receive a drink and snack each, while adults can enjoy a glass of wine and mince pie.
When? 30 November – 24 December
Where? Rowsley South Station, DE4 2LF
How much? From £40 for a table of 2
Rushden Historical Transport Society Santa Special
What? Take a special diesel train ride to Santa’s grotto, where all children will receive a present. Children also get juice and a biscuit while adults can enjoy a nice tea or coffee and mince pie.
When? 7 – 15 December
Where? Station Approach, Rushden NN10 0AW
How much? Adults £8, Children £11.50
West Midlands
Amerton Railway Santa Specials
What? Board a steam train to Toyland and receive a special gift from Santa! Each compartment also receives a goodie bag and adults can enjoy a warm mince pie and sherry.
When? 30 November – 24 December
Where? Amerton Farm & Craft Centre, Amerton, Stafford ST18 0LA
How much? £26 for a small compartment (sits 3), £46 for a standard compartment (sits 6), £56 for a large compartment (sits 8), £46 for an accessible compartment
Birmingham Polar Express
What? Recreate the magic of the 2004 motion picture THE POLAR EXPRESS™ on board a festive train ride. Be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale – even receiving your own Golden Tickets!
When? 23 November – 23 December
Where? Birmingham Moor Street Station, Queensway, Birmingham, West Midlands, B4 7UL
How much? From £29 per person, under 3s free
Churnet Valley Railway Polar Express
What? Recreate the magic of the 2004 motion picture THE POLAR EXPRESS™ on board a festive train ride. Be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale – even receiving your own Silver Sleigh Bell from Santa, and of course a cup of hot chocolate!
When? 16 November – 23 December
Where? Froghall Station, Froghall, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST10 2HA
How much? From £28.95
Foxfield Railway’s North Pole Express
What? Climb aboard a festively decorated steam locomotive. There’ll be plenty of entertainment along the way from the elves and Mrs Claus, Christmas treats to eat and drink for the children and adults, and a present for each child from Santa himself!
When? 23 November – 24 December
Where? Foxfield Railway Station, Stoke-on-Trent, ST11 9BG
How much? Starting from £49.95 for a table of 4
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway Santa Express
What? Climb aboard a festively decorated steam train and travel through the picturesque landscapes of the Cotswolds. Next, meet Santa and his elves, with a special present for each child.
When? 23 November – 23 December
Where? Prestbury, Cheltenham GL50 4SH
How much? From £28.50
Severn Valley Railway Santa Trains
What? Walk through a winter wonderland at Kidderminster station before boarding a steam train for a journey to Arley station, where you’ll enjoy an all-new Christmas. Each child will receive a present. Note that Santa appears in the pantomime but this experience does not include a personal meeting (however Severn Valley Railway’s The Enchanted Express does!)
There is a Relaxed Santa Train which offers the same experience but with the lights and noise of the pantomime subdued.
When? 30 November – 24 December
Where? Kidderminster Station, DY10 1QX
How much? From £67 for a table for 2, £133 for a table for 4, £140 for a compartment for 4, or £210 for a compartment for 6
Severn Valley Railway Carol Trains
What? An evening journey on a heritage train full of festive singing, before getting off to attend a Christmas concert among the locomotives at the Engine House, Highley.
When? 13 – 23 December
Where? Kidderminster Station, DY10 1QX
How much? Adults £20, Children/Members £15
Telford Steam Railway Polar Express
What? Recreate the magic of the 2004 motion picture THE POLAR EXPRESS™ on board a festive train ride. Be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale – even receiving your own Silver Sleigh Bell from Santa, and of course a cup of hot chocolate!
When? 22 November – 20 December
Where? Telford, Shropshire, TF4 2NF
How much? From £63.99 for 2
North East
Aln Valley Railway Santa Specials
What? Travel aboard a festive Pacer train, with children receiving a drink and cookie, festive activity pack, and a special gift from Santa!
When? 14 – 22 December
Where? Lionheart Railway Station, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 2EZ
How much? Adults £8, children £25
Embsay & Bolton Abbey Polar Express
What? Recreate the magic of the 2004 motion picture THE POLAR EXPRESS™ on board a festive train ride. Be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale – even receiving your own Silver Sleigh Bell from Santa, and of course a cup of hot chocolate!
When? 15 November – 19 December
Where? Bolton Abbey Station, BD23 6AF
How much? From £37.95 per person
Hopetown Darlington Enchanted Forest Reindeer Trail
What? Santa has steamed into Hopetown Darlington for a rest before he sets off around the world delivering presents. But there’s a problem… he’s lost his reindeer! Help Santa look for them in the historic Carriage Works, magically transformed into a wintery forest.
When? 26 November – 31 December
Where? Hopetown Darlington, McNay Street, Darlington, DL3 6SW
How much? From £5 per child
Middleton Railway Santa Special
What? Arrive at the festively decorated Engine House and be led to the platform where your Santa Special awaits. As you travel, Santa Claus will visit with a present for every child. Quiet Coaches are available.
When? 1 December – 24 December
Where? Moor Road, Hunslet, Leeds, LS10 2JQ
How much? 0-2 from £11.50, 3-10 from £17, adults from £13.50
North Yorkshire Moors Railway Santa Specials
What? Arrive at a festively decorated Pickering station, complete with a Christmas tea room and the chance to visit a festive Signal Box. Then climb aboard for a festive steam train ride with Santa. Each child receives a unique Edmondson railway ticket as a keepsake and a limited-edition soft toy.
When? 30 November – 24 December
Where? Pickering Station, Pickering, YO18 7AJ
How much? Prices start from £29.50 per person, with 5% off if booked before 31 October 2024.
Scarborough North Bay Railway Santa Specials
What? Take a trip aboard the Jingle Belle or Flying Snowman to the North Yorkshire Pole, then enjoy complimentary refreshments, including mince pies and mulled wine for the adults, have a ride on Santa’s sleigh, and even make your own reindeer food. Then the elves will lead you to Santa’s Grotto to meet the man himself and each child will receive a special gift.
When? 7 – 24 December
Where? Peasholm Station, Burniston Road, YO12 6PF
How much? From £15.95 per adults, £18.95 per child
Stephenson Steam Railway’s The Elf Express
What? Take a trip on the Elf Express, where you’ll meet the Chief Elf and Santa himself and enjoy an interactive Christmas performance. There’ll be live entertainment, Christmas music and refreshments, plus a present from Santa for every child!
When? 30 November – 23 December
Where? North Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE29 8DX
How much? From £18
Weardale Railway’s Santa Express
What? A live performance onboard a festive train, including Santa, Mrs Claus, and a team of cheeky elves. Beginning at Stanhope Station, travel through Weardale on the Santa Express as a narrated Christmas Story unfolds along the journey. Each child will receive a special gift from Santa too.
When? 16 November – 24 December
Where? Stanhope Station, DL13 2YS
How much? From £31.20 per person
Wensleydale Railway Polar Express
What? Recreate the magic of the 2004 motion picture THE POLAR EXPRESS™ on board a festive train ride. Be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale – even receiving your own Silver Sleigh Bell from Santa, and of course a cup of hot chocolate!
When? 16 November – 23 December
Where? Leeming Bar Station, Leases Rd, Leeming Bar, Northallerton, DL7 9AR
How much? From £39.90 per person
North West
East Lancashire Railway Santa Specials
What? Start with a Winter Wonderland walkthrough with beautiful decorations, a choir of singing polar bears and a magical talking Christmas Tree. Meet the elves, Mrs Claus and the Ice Princess before boarding for an 80-minute steam train ride, with a visit from Santa and Christmas gift for every child! There’s mulled wine and mince pies for the adults and a soft drink, chocolate and activity pack for children.
There is also a customised experience for SEND families.
When? 23 November – 24 December
Where? Bury Bolton Street Station, BL9 0EY
How much? From £22.50
The Lakeside & Haverwaite Railway Tinsel Train
What? Sit back in a festively decorated private compartment and receive seasonal drinks and snacks. Father Christmas arrives with a present for all the children!
When? 30 November – 15 December
Where? Haverthwaite Station, Nr Ulverston, Cumbria LA12 8AL
How much? £125 for a compartment of 4
Ribble Steam Railway Santa Special
What? Get cozy in a steam-heated carriage before Father Christmas visits your seat with a Christmas gift for each child. Tickets also include entry to the festively decorated museum.
When? 30 November – 22 December
Where? Ribble Steam Railway, Lancashire. PR2 2PD
How much? From £18 per person
West Lancashire Light Railway Santa Specials
What? Take a heritage steam train journey to meet Father Christmas and his elves, plus watch Santa’s Christmas Magic Show. Children receive a gift from Father Christmas and a Christmas goody bag, while adults can enjoy a mince pie and mulled wine, fruit punch or a hot drink.
When? 8 – 22 December
Where? Station Rd, Hesketh Bank, Preston PR4 6SP
How much? From £10 per adult, £15 per child
Worth Valley Railway’s A Christmas Carol
What? The story of A Christmas Carol we all know, but on a steam train! See Scrooge’s story unfold before you as you steam your way through the Yorkshire countryside.
When? 28 November – 20 December
Where? Haworth, BD22 8NJ
How much? £35 (includes a free Day Rover to use in January or February)
Worth Valley Railway’s Festive Flyer
What? Enjoy a steam-hauled journey to ‘The North Pole’ of the Worth Valley, where you’ll get to meet real reindeer, visit Christmas markets, and enjoy live Christmas music and a show by Santa’s elves. (Note The Festive Flyer does not include a visit from Santa, but The Elf Explorer does!)
When? 12 & 13 December
Where? Station Bridge, Keighley. BD21 4HP
How much? Adults £25, Children 3-15 £18, Under 3s FREE
Worth Valley Railway’s Carol Service Train
What? A journey through the Worth Valley full of festive carols from the Hall Royd Brass Band and including an address from Rev Martyn Weaver. The evening will end with supper and plenty more carols!
When? 14 December
Where? Haworth, BD22 8NJ
How much? Adults £29.50, Children £20
Wales
The Brecon Mountain Railway Santa Special
What? A festive 2-mile ride through the countryside followed by a meeting with Santa and his elves. Each child will receive a special gift from Santa, and there are complimentary seasonal refreshments to enjoy too!
When? November 23 – December 22
Where? Pant Station, Merthyr Tydfil CF48 2DD
How much? £23 per adult or child, £10 for under 2s
Llangollen Railway
What? Take a festive steam journey through the beautiful Dee Valley, with a festive drink and mince pie to enjoy before meeting Santa. Each child will receive a special present, plus a fun activity book to keep them busy!
When? 30 November – 24 December
Where? Llangollen, Denbighshire, LL20 8SN
How much? From £30 per person
Talyllyn Railway Santa Specials
What? Santa’s stopped off in Tywyn to let Rudolph and the reindeers rest, so board Santa’s special train to Plas Nadolig and come meet him in his grotto. There’s a present for every child!
When? 21 – 24 December
Where? Tywyn Wharf, Gwynedd, LL36 9EY
How much? Adults & Children £20, Under 2s £7, dogs £5
Talyllyn Railway Carol Train
What? An evening of festive fun – enjoy a trip on a steam train singing Christmas carols and a festive tipple and complimentary mince pie at Abergynolwyn.
When? 21 December
Where? Tywyn Wharf, Gwynedd, LL36 9EY
How much? Adults £15, TRPS Member £10, Child 6-15 £5, Under 5s Free
The Vale of Rheidol Railway Polar Express
What? Recreate the magic of the 2004 motion picture THE POLAR EXPRESS™ on board a festive train ride. Be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale – even receiving your own Silver Sleigh Bell from Santa, and of course a cup of hot chocolate!
When? 30 November – 24 December
Where? Vale of Rheidol Railway, Aberystwyth, SY23 1PG
How much? From £37.95 per person
Gwili Railway Santa Special
What? Take a steam train ride through the scenic South Wales countryside, then meet Santa, who will have a special present for all children. There will also be a Christmas storybook and activity booklet for each child, plus a complimentary mince pie for all adults!
When? 30 November – 23 December
Where? Abergwili Junction station, SA31 2DG
How much? From £30 per person, £15 for under 2s
Scotland
Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway Santa Steam Trains
What? Sit back and enjoy a steam train journey, with festive singers and a magician on board the train, before Santa himself arrives with a present for all children. There are complimentary seasonal refreshments too!
When? 30 November – 24 December
Where? Bo’ness Railway Station, EH51 9UD
How much? £24 per person
Caledonian Railway Polar Express
What? Recreate the magic of the 2004 motion picture THE POLAR EXPRESS™ on board a festive train ride. Be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale – even receiving your own Silver Sleigh Bell from Santa, and of course a cup of hot chocolate!
When? 23 November – 22 December
Where? Brechin Station, Park Road, Brechin. DD9 7AF.
How much? From £30.95
Fife Heritage Railway Santa Special
What? Take a seat on a steam train and enjoy a 20 minute round trip. Whilst travelling, Santa will visit the carriage with a gift for every child, with plenty of time for a chat and a selfie with the man himself!
When? 7 & 8 December
Where? Fife Heritage Railway, Kirkland Yard, Leven KY8 4RB
How much? From £12.50
Strathspey Railway Santa Trains
What? Take a beautiful steam train ride through the Cairngorm National Park, all while enjoying entertainment from the elves, followed by a visit from Santa himself. Children will receive a special gift pack including a gingerbread man, activity book, souvenir railway bauble and pin badge. There is also the option to upgrade to include a festive lunch in your own compartment!
When? 30 November – 23 December
Where? Aviemore Station, PH22 1PY
How much? £80 for a table seating 4, £200 for a compartment seating 4 with lunch
Doon Valley Railway Santa Train
What? Travel in a the saloon carriage hauled by a heritage diesel locomotive through the scenic Doon Valley before meeting Santa on the train with a gift for every child!
When? 23 November – 8 December
Where? Ayr, KA6 7JH
How much? £15 per person, £6 for under 2s on lap
Keith & Dufftown Railway Santa Special
What? Meet Santa aboard a heritage train, with some special presents for children!
When? 7– 22 December
Where? Keith Town Station, AB55 5BR
How much? Adults £16, Child 3-12 £22, under 3s £3
Edinburgh Polar Express
What? Recreate the magic of the 2004 motion picture THE POLAR EXPRESS™ on board a festive train ride. Be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale – even receiving your own Silver Sleigh Bell from Santa, and of course a cup of hot chocolate!
When? 29 November – 23 December
Where? Edinburgh Waverley Station, EH1 3EG
How much? From £38.95 per person
Top Christmas steam train experiences for adults 2024
Christmas trains aren’t just for kids either. There’s plenty going on up and down the country this Christmas for heritage railway fans who are looking for something a little more relaxed, or a little more boozy!
Here are some of our recommendations.
South West
Avon Valley Railway Festive Afternoon Tea
What? What could be better than a glass of hot mulled wine and afternoon tea as you travel through the wintery Avon Valley? Hop onboard and enjoy sandwiches, scones and cakes in the first class dining carriage of a steam-hauled festive train.
When? 23 November – 24 December
Where? Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD
How much? From £29 per person
Avon Valley Railway Carol Train
What? Ride a steam train and sing carols accompanied by the Bristol East and Kingswood Brass Band and some seasonal refreshments! Profits go to two children’s charities.
When? 7 December
Where? Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD
How much? Adults £12, Children £6, Under 5s FREE
East Somerset Railway Christmas High Tea
What? A 35-minute steam train journey through the Somerset countryside followed by High Tea in a First Class static dining carriage. There’ll be sandwiches, sausage rolls, pigs in blankets, scones, mince pies and more.
When? 30 November – 23 December
Where? Cranmore Railway Station, Cranmore, Shepton Mallet, Somerset BA4 4QP
How much? £35 per person
South East
Bure Valley Railway Noel Night Train
What? Enjoy a festive Brass Band before boarding a special evening train for a 60 minute journey through Norfolk. You’ll also be able to enjoy some free refreshments in your own heated private compartment!
When? 6 & 13 December
Where? Aylsham Station, Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk, NR11 6BW
How much? £24 per person
Cholsey & Wallingford Christmas Wine Train
What? Sit back in a 1950s carriage and enjoy a steam train journey as you are served six wines to sample. There will also be complimentary mince pies, port and Stilton to finish the evening!
When? 7 December
Where? Wallingford Station, 5 Hithercroft Road, Wallingford, Oxfordshire, OX10 9GQ
How much? £30 per person
The Bluebell Railway Golden Arrow Christmas Dining Trains
What? Relive the golden age of rail travel with a recreation of the famous “Golden Arrow” Pullman service which once linked London Victoria and Paris Gare Du Nord. Aboard luxurious Pullman Cars Christine, Fingall and new-for-2024 Car 54, you’ll step back in time to the 1920s and 30s, while 1st Class Dining carriage Sapphire relives the 1950s. You’ll enjoy your pick from a tasty Christmas menu as the train steams through the Sussex countryside to East Grinstead and back.
When? 4 – 23 December
Where? Sheffield Park Station, East Sussex, TN22 3QL
How much? From £125
Didcot Railway Centre – A Christmas Carol
What? An exclusive performance of ‘A Christmas Carol’ by Gerald Dickens, the great great grandson of Charles Dickens! Explore over 200 years of Great Western Railway history before heading down to the transfer shed to watch the performance, with mulled wine and mince pies available during the interval.
When? 17 December
Where? Didcot Railway Centre, Didcot, Oxfordshire, OX11 7NJ
How much? £38.50 per person
East Midlands
Great Central Railway The Christmas Jubilee
What? Indulge in a four-course dining experience finished with tea, coffee and a mince pie as you travel through the beautiful countryside on a heritage steam locomotive. Tables are available in groups of two and four.
When? 23 November – 22 December
Where? Loughborough Central, Great Central Road, Loughborough, LE11 1RW
How much? £75 per person
West Midlands
Severn Valley Railway Enchanted Afternoon Tea
What? Enjoy a delicious afternoon tea as you travel through the picturesque countryside. Depart from Kidderminster station and sit back to indulge in scones, sandwiches, sweet treats and hot drinks.
When? 10 – 19 December
Where? Kidderminster Station, DY10 1QX
How much? £75 per person
Severn Valley Railway Festive Gin Train
What? Are you a fan of both gin and steam trains? If so, the Festive Gin Trains at SVR couldn’t be more perfect for you. Step on board at Kidderminster and enjoy a Gin and Tonic made with Piston Gin’s London Dry. Then sit back and enjoy the ride as you taste the exclusive-to-the-SVR Coal Infused Gin, which will be available to purchase for an extra special Christmas gift or treat.
When? 13 & 14 December
Where? Kidderminster Station, DY10 1QX
How much? £55 per person
North West
Worth Valley Railway’s Carol Service Train
What? A journey through the Worth Valley full of festive carols from the Hall Royd Brass Band and including an address from Rev Martyn Weaver. The evening will end with supper and plenty more carols!
When? 14 December
Where? Haworth, BD22 8NJ
How much? Adults £29.50, Children £20
East Lancashire Railway Christmas Lunch
What? Step into a festive carriage for a steam-hauled journey through the Irwell Valley. With a sparkling welcome drink when you board, followed by three courses, coffee and after dinner chocolate, expect a luxurious Christmas lunch with friends and family.
When? 27 November – 29 December
Where? Bury Bolton Street Station, BL9 0EY
How much? £67.50 per adult, £54.50 per child
North East
Christmas Afternoon Tea on the Great Western Saloon
What? Get together with family and friends for a delicious experience on the festively decorated Great Western Saloon. As you travel through the North York Moors National Park, you’ll enjoy a selection of sandwiches, savouries and sweet treats, plus mulled wine and mince pies.
When? 28 November – 19 December
Where? Grosmont Station, YO22 5QE
How much? £85 per person
Wales
Talyllyn Railway Carol Train
What? An evening of festive fun – enjoy a trip on a steam train singing Christmas carols and a festive tipple and complimentary mince pie at Abergynolwyn.
When? 21 December
Where? Tywyn Wharf, Gwynedd, LL36 9EY
How much? Adults £15, TRPS Member £10, Child 6-15 £5, Under 5s Free
Steam train events between Christmas and New Years
The fun doesn’t end at Christmas! There’s plenty of fun events to get you out of the house in that period between Christmas and New Years when you don’t know what do do with yourself!
South West
Avon Valley Railway Mince Pie Special
What? Sit back and relax in the period between Christmas and New Year with a trip on one of Avon Valley Railway’s heritage trains, with a nice mince pie served as you travel!
When? 29 December – 1 January
Where? Bitton Station, Bath Road, Bitton, Bristol, BS30 6HD
How much? £11 adults, £10 concession and £7 children
Swanage Railway Winter Warm Up
What? A combinations of Steam and Diesel locomotives hauling passengers trains – plus the return of freight trains to Swanage Railway!
When? 4 & 5 January
Where? Swanage Railway Station, Dorset, BH19 1HB
South East
The Bluebell Railway NYE Golden Arrow Dining Train
What? Ring in the New Year with a luxurious evening of fine dining aboard as you travel through the countryside aboard a steam train. The evening will begin with a drinks reception before getting settled in a Pullman dining carriage to begin your journey
When? 31 December
Where? Sheffield Park Station, TN22 3QL
How much? £175 per person
Bure Valley Railway Mince Pie Special
What? Sit back and travel through the wintery countryside with a free warm mince pie!
When? 27 December to 5 January
Where? Aylsham Station, Norwich Road, Aylsham, Norfolk, NR11 6BW
How much? Adults £22, Children £11
Epping Ongar Lights Express
What? An incredible light show in and on a steam train! With thousands of coloured LED lights making everything look magical, it’ll be a night to remember!
When? 16 November – 12 January
Where? Ongar station, CM5 9AB
How much? £45 table for 2
West Midlands
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway Mince Pie Special
What? Sit back in a restored vintage steam train through the Cotswolds countryside. As you watch the world go by, enjoy a mince pie and hot drink.
When? 27 December – 1 January
How much? Adult £26, Child £10
North East
Aln Valley Mince Pie Specials
What? A festive day out enjoying a steam journey through the countryside, with a mince pie and hot drink included!
When? 27 – 29 December
Where? Lionheart Railway Station, Alnwick, Northumberland, NE66 2EZ
How much? Varies – from £7 for an adult single, £3.50 for a child single
North Yorkshire Moors Railway Whitby Winter Excursions
What? In the wind down between Christmas and New Year, how about a special steam-hauled excursion to Whitby? Start at Pickering Station before travestying through the North York Moors National Park to Whitby, where you’ll have an hour and a half to explore the seaside (2 hr 30 mins on Sunday) before the steam hauled service returns to Whitby.
When? 27 December – 5 January
Where? Pickering Station, Pickering, YO18 7AJ
How much? Adult: £49.50, Child: Free, Dog: £3 / Member Rate -Adult: £24.75, Child: Free, Dog: Free / Premiere Life Member Rate – Adult: Free
Stephenson Steam Railway’s Winter Warmers
What? In-between Christmas and New Year head on a relaxing heritage train ride. Afterwards, visit the museum and learn about the lives of railway pioneers George and Robert Stephenson and see Billy, the world’s third oldest surviving steam locomotive.
When? 28 & 29 December
Where? North Shields, Tyne & Wear, NE29 8DX
How much? Adults from £8, 5-21 year olds/ 60+ £6, Under 4s FREE
North West
Ravenglass & Eskdale Railway Winter Warmer Trains
What? Enjoy a relaxing train ride through the Lake District, with a mince pie included with each full-line return ticket.
When? 26 December – 1 January
Worth Valley Mince Pie Specials
What? Travel through the Worth Valley in a cosy carriage, with a complimentary homemade mince pie included with your ticket!
When? 26 December – 5 January
How much? From £19.90 for adults and £9.90 for children, under 5s FREE
Scotland
Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway Winter Diesel Gala
What? Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway will be hosting its Winter Diesel Gala over two days. Details of visiting locomotives are still to be revealed, but we already know that 26038 “Tom Clift” will make its first appearance at an SRPS Gala since overhaul.
When? 28 & 29 December
Where? Bo’ness Railway Station, EH51 9UD
Bo’ness & Kinneil Railway Black Bun Specials
What? Celebrate Hogmanay with a cosy steam train journey, enjoying a hot drink and a slice of traditional Hogmanay black bun for adults, or shortbread and juice for the kids.
When? 30 & 31 December and 2 & 3 January
Where? Where? Bo’ness Railway Station, EH51 9UD
Keith & Dufftown Railway Hogmanay Special
What? Travel aboard the Dram Train to see in the New Year with traditional musical entertainment and festive fare!
When? 31 December
Where? Keith Town Station, AB55 5BR
How much? £50 per person
Strathspey Railway Mince Pie Specials
What? Sit back and relax as you steam through the Cairngorms National Park, enjoying a mince pie as you what the scenery go by.
When? 28 December – 1 January
Where? Aviemore Station, PH22 1PY
How much? Adults from £24.50, children from £14.50
Wales
The ‘Christmas Cwellyn’
What? Enjoy a relaxing journey through the Snowdonia National Park to Rhyd Ddu, where there will be a chance to enjoy the views before heading back to Caernarfon.
When? 28 December – January 1
Where? Caernarfon LL55 2YD
How much? Adult £39, child £3
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