As the final doors of Advent calendars swing open, many festive staples like markets and pantomimes may already be checked off your list. Yet, there remains a uniquely magical way to embrace the season: a Christmas train journey that transforms the daily commute into a winter wonderland on rails.
Across the UK, heritage railways and luxury services are laying on spectacular seasonal trips. On board, you can expect carol-singing choirs, steaming hot chocolate served by conductors, and even a visit from Santa himself as the countryside rolls by. From glitzy fine dining to dazzling light displays, these experiences offer a slice of Polar Express-style enchantment for all ages.
Luxury Dining and Dazzling Light Displays
For those seeking opulence, the Belmond British Pullman offers a festive lunch steeped in 1920s glamour. Departing from London Victoria, this round trip through the Kentish countryside features a champagne reception and a five-course festive feast. The journey includes a pitstop at Dover Priory for jazz and mulled wine. Tickets start from £585 per person, with dates running throughout November and December.
If it's spectacle you're after, several railways offer breathtaking illuminated journeys. The Watercress Line in Hampshire presents its Steam Illuminations, a vibrant light and sound show with live entertainment and LED wristbands. The two-hour return trips from Alresford or Alton run from November 2025 to January 2026, with prices from £34.
Similarly, the Norfolk Lights Express on the North Norfolk Railway departs Sheringham after dark. The 5.5-mile trip passes ten light installations telling the railway's history, accompanied by a festive soundtrack. With a bar at Holt and a hot bap on return, tickets start from £20 for journeys between 14 November 2025 and 3 January 2026.
Family-Friendly Santa Specials
For a classic Christmas family adventure, several railways host beloved Santa Specials. The Christmas Train of Lights on the Dartmouth Steam Railway in Devon decks vintage carriages in thousands of lights for a technicolour trip from Paignton to Kingswear. You can even book a meeting with Santa. Adult tickets start from £29.95 for travel between 28 November and 30 December.
In Yorkshire, the North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR) Santa Express from Pickering station promises a Polar Express-style ride packed with songs, games, and a visit from Santa, aided by his quirky elves. Every child receives a keepsake gift. This magical trip runs on 13, 14 and 20–24 December, with prices from £34.50.
Finally, the Isle of Wight Steam Railway invites families aboard its Santa Special for a 10-mile round trip. The experience includes festive entertainment, fairground rides, a winter wonderland at Havenstreet station, and a gift for each child. Travel dates are 13, 14 and 20–24 December, with adult tickets from £25.
These festive rail journeys offer more than just transport; they create lasting Christmas memories. With carriages full of song, light, and holiday spirit, they represent the perfect way to celebrate the season before the final Christmas bell rings.
