It’s never too soon to start making plans for the perfect Christmas, especially when one of the hottest (or is it the coolest?) festive events is making a return. And “I suggest we all hold on… TIGHTLY”.
This year’s Christmas extravaganza at Churnet Valley Railway is set to be their biggest yet as you hop on board this immersive experience – and it’s only an hour and a half away from Birmingham. This festive season, you can go on a magical journey to pick Santa Claus up from the North Pole aboard the Polar Express Train Ride, reliving all the action and adventure in the children’s classic.
The journey to the North Pole is a family-friendly highlight that delights both big and little kids alike, year after year. From meeting much-loved characters to handing wish lists directly to Santa, savouring the ultimate treat (a warm mug of hot chocolate and a cookie) to receiving the first Christmas gift of the season from Santa himself, you’ll be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this festive story like no other way. As for parents? You can get all of the same pros, plus get to watch your kids have the time of their lives on this magical, festive adventure.
What happens on board the Polar Express Train Ride?
The hour-long Christmas train ride departs from Froghall Station in Staffordshire, making this adventure easily accessible for those in and around the Birmingham area. Better still, the fun begins long before you even step onto the train.
All passengers are encouraged to come dressed in their PJs for an added layer of authenticity. The platform will be full of excitement as hundreds of pyjama-clad children and parents eagerly cheer the approaching Polar Express Train Ride as it clickety-clacks into view.
Once all ‘believers’ are aboard the beautifully restored vintage carriages, you’ll be whisked away to gather Santa at the North Pole, conveniently located at Leekbrook Junction. The Big Man himself will join everyone for the journey back to Froghall when we arrive at the North Pole.
En route to receive the first gift of Christmas from Santa, children get the chance to interact with their favourite characters from the film, including the bespeckled Conductor, the mysterious and charismatic Hobo, and the singing, dancing, and hot chocolate-serving Chefs. But be sure to look out the window too as you pass the breathtaking beauty of the Midlands at dusk. And be sure to keep an eye out for the glowing ‘Northern Lights’ too!
If the journey to the North Pole is ‘excitement’, then the journey back is ‘magic’ as all children will get the chance to meet Santa. Plus, the icing on the Christmas cake of this already incredible experience is that each and every child will also receive their first Christmas gift – a silver bell that only rings for those who believe in the spirit of Christmas, taken directly from Santa’s personal sleigh.
How to get tickets to the Polar Express Train Ride
The 2024 season of the Polar Express Train Ride at Churnet Valley Railway runs from November 16 right up until December 23 – and you don’t want to be late for this train. Although selected slots closer to Christmas are already sold out, there are still spaces available on most rides.
To bag yourself tickets for the Polar Express Train Ride, head to the booking page here. Plus, those who book Premier-class tickets will also receive a souvenir mug and a goodie bag. For more information about our other events and seasonal specials, visit the Churnet Valley Railway website here.