Families can now book tickets for one of the most magical experiences and take a trip to the ‘North Pole’ to meet Santa, recreating a holiday classic in real life aboard vintage steam trains.
That's right, tickets for Churnet Valley Railway’s annual Christmas extravaganza, the hugely popular and family-friendly Polar Express™ Christmas Train Ride, have just been made available. And like previous years, they are selling fast.
This hour-long excursion through the stunning Staffordshire Moorlands is easily accessible from most of the Midlands.
It faithfully recreates the children’s classic as it sets off on a journey to pick up Kris Kringle himself.
Passengers will be able to meet and interact with all of their favourite characters from the film, sing and dance with the chefs, listen to the Hobo’s tales, and get their ticket punched by none other than the beloved and bespectacled conductor.
This sing-along, hot-chocolate-slurping, cookie-munching, and Christmas-spirit-generating annual attraction is exceptionally popular and tickets are moving faster than an overslept Santa on Christmas Eve.
Families are encouraged to book now to secure their seats.
‘All aboard for the North Pole’
This incredible festive journey journey starts at Froghall station on the Churnet Valley line in Staffordshire.
From there, passengers will be told to head “beyond the breathtaking Northern Lights as you journey to the frozen north" — taking in the winter scenery from the authentic vintage carriages' warmth and merry atmosphere.
All passengers are encouraged to come dressed in PJs for a more authentic and immersive experience, but remember their dressing gowns in case they get cold.
Santa awaits
Upon arriving at the ‘North Pole’ approximately half an hour into the ride, passengers will find Santa waiting for a ride back to Froghall.
Kids and adult believers all get to meet Santa in person and share their Christmas wishes, and there’s even a special early Christmas present for all the good little boys and girls — a delicate silver bell from Santa’s very own sleigh.
Families can also order a copy of The Polar Express with their tickets, and they should remember to bring it along on the evening. This beloved children’s book, signed by Santa himself, makes a great gift and souvenir.
How to book tickets
The Churnet Valley Railway Polar Express™ Christmas Train Ride is the ideal family-friendly activity to kickstart a festive season filled with fun, Christmas spirit, and nonstop merriment.
The 2024 season kicks off on Saturday, November 16, and runs until Monday, December 23.
Those who want to make the day extra special can book premium class tickets, which include a souvenir mug and goodie bag.
Although the experience is scheduled for one hour, customers are advised to allow at least 90 minutes in case of unexpected delays.
