The Elf Explorer
The Elf Explorer offers a steam train ride and interactive Elf Show at the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway. Father Christmas will visit, and children receive gifts and treats. Adults may purchase festive drinks.
What to Expect
Magical steam train journey with elves and Father Christmas.
Event Details
Duration
Approximately 2 hours (including pre-boarding activities)
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Keighley and Worth Valley Railway Preservation Society
Food & Drink
Rudolph's Refreshments offers hot sandwiches, pies, pasties, tea, coffee, hot chocolate, sweet treats, and cold drinks. A bar serves real ale, lager, cider, spirits, Prosecco, and wine. Mulled cider and Baileys Hot Chocolate are available.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive, magical, whimsical
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Oxenhope Station has large free parking and overflow parking. Haworth Station has large pay & display parking. Keighley Station has limited free parking (voucher required). Oakworth Station has a small, free, uneven car park. Ingrow West Station has large free parking. Damems Station has no vehicle access. Pre-booking for Oxenhope Station parking is required for the Elf Explorer.
- Accessibility: The Elf Explorer service features an Accessibility Coach with dedicated space for wheelchair users and caregivers. Most stations, except Damems, offer ramped access. An onboard ramp is available, though it is steep. Connecting doors between carriages are narrow. Accessible toilets are available at Keighley, Haworth, and Oxenhope Stations. Designated accessible parking bays can be booked at Oxenhope Station for those booking accessibility seating.
- Pets: No pets allowed (assistance dogs welcome)
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at Oxenhope Station well in advance of your booked train time to fully experience the immersive Elf Show and attractions before boarding.
- Pre-book your Oxenhope Station car parking space when booking your train tickets, as it is required and sells out quickly.
- Consider visiting the nearby Haworth Village after your train journey to extend your festive day out with its charming atmosphere and decorations.
- Due to narrow doorways and limited space on heritage carriages, pushchairs and buggies cannot be accommodated on the train and should be left in the car.
- While there is no bar on the train, you can purchase festive drinks like mulled wine and cider from the bar at the Exhibition Shed before boarding.
Special Events & Promotions
- Pre-booking for Oxenhope Station car parking is required.
- Group bookings for over 20 people require direct contact with the booking office.
- Tickets include free travel on the Diesel Train or Special Bus Service.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the Elf Explorer experience?
The Elf Explorer experience lasts approximately two hours, including the pre-boarding Winter Wonderland and Elf Show, followed by an hour-long round trip on the train.
Can I board the train at a station other than Oxenhope?
No, all Elf Explorer services depart exclusively from Oxenhope Station. However, you can use the Diesel Shuttle service or the free local bus service to reach Oxenhope if you park at other stations.
Are dogs allowed on the Elf Explorer train?
Dogs, other than assistance dogs, are not permitted onboard the Elf Explorer. Please inform them if you are bringing an assistance dog.
What food and drink options are available?
Rudolph's Refreshments in the Exhibition Shed offers hot and cold drinks, snacks, and sweet treats. A bar is also available in the Marquee for alcoholic beverages before boarding.
Is there accessible parking available?
Yes, if you book accessibility seating for the Elf Explorer, you can also book a designated parking bay at Oxenhope Station. Please inquire when booking.
More Christmas Events near Keighley
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.