All Aboard for Christmas
Whitehead Railway Museum hosts All Aboard for Christmas, a steam train experience with lights and decorations. Visitors can meet Santa and Mrs. Claus, write letters to Santa, decorate gingerbread, and make reindeer food. A short steam train ride with entertainment is included.
What to Expect
Christmas steam train adventure with Santa and elves.
Event Details
Duration
1 hour 30 minutes (per time slot)
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Whitehead
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Railway Preservation Society of Ireland
Food & Drink
Cafe open serving treats and refreshments; bar service available on trains.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive, nostalgic, cheerful
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Parking is available adjacent to the youth centre, with the museum entrance past the youth centre.
- Accessibility: Carriages from the 1960s and 1970s are unsuitable for wheelchair passengers unless they can be assisted from the platform to a seat and the wheelchair folded for stowing in the luggage van. Electric wheelchairs or buggies cannot be accommodated. Guide dogs and registered assistance animals are permitted.
- Pets: No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at least 15 minutes before your allocated time slot, as trains cannot be held for late arrivals.
- Book tickets in advance as these popular Christmas events sell out quickly.
- Check the museum's website or contact them for the most up-to-date information on train schedules and ticket availability.
- Consider using public transport as parking is available but can be limited, and the museum is a short walk from Whitehead train station.
- While children under 3 may not need a ticket if they don't occupy a seat, all children on Christmas trains require a ticket if they wish to receive a present.
Special Events & Promotions
- Meet Santa Claus and receive a present
- Meet Mrs. Claus
- Decorate your own gingerbread person
- Make your own bag of magical reindeer food
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the refund policy for tickets?
Tickets are generally non-refundable and cannot be exchanged or cancelled, but they can be transferred to friends or family.
How can I get information on trains and events?
All available information is on the 'Trains/Events' web page. If details are not yet published, they will be released on the website as soon as they are confirmed.
Does my young child need a ticket?
Children under 3 do not need a ticket if they don't take up a seat. However, all children on Christmas trains must have a ticket if they wish to receive a present.
What on-train facilities are available?
All trains have a dining car serving refreshments and a full bar service. Toilet facilities are available. Due to the historic nature of the carriages, only a limited number of prams/buggies can be accommodated and must be folded.
Are pets allowed?
With the exception of guide dogs and registered assistance animals, pets are not permitted on the train, in the museum, or café.
More Christmas Events near Carrickfergus
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.