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East Lancashire Railway SEND Family Santa Special
Bury, Lancashire
Sensory-friendly steam train journey with Father Christmas
About
Embark on a magical steam train journey designed specifically for families with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). This enchanting experience features Father Christmas, his cheerful helpers, and festive characters, offering a relaxed and sensory-friendly environment. Enjoy a round trip through the Irwell Valley, complete with a visit from Santa and a special gift for every child.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with send children
Vibe
Festive, relaxed, magical
Energy Level
Low
Budget
Mid-Range
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
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.
Location
Event Details
Pricing
Adult: £23.00-£31.00, Child: £22.50-£30.50. Adult & Under 3 on Knee: £37.00-£48.00. Registered carers travel for free.
Duration
Approximately 1 hour 30 minutes
Ages
Suitable for all ages with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND), children and young people aged 0-17 years.
Schedule
Available on 22, 23, and 29 November, with specific departure times detailed for the Heywood Shuttle and SEND Santa Special.
Organizer
East Lancashire Railway
Practical Information
Parking
Parking at Bolton Street Station is very limited. Consider using the Santa diesel shuttle from Heywood Station, which offers a free car park.
Accessibility
This event is specifically designed to be welcoming and comfortable for individuals with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). Features include reduced musical volume and visual stimuli, toned-down character performances, alternative outdoor access, a wider arrival window, optional tools to communicate comfort levels with performers, and special 'Calm Carriages' that exclude live brass band performances. An accessible coach is available for wheelchairs, and registered carers travel for free. They also offer a pram route to avoid stairs and an accessible carriage for wheelchair assistance.
Pet Policy
Dogs are not permitted at the SEND Family Santa Special event, with the exception of guide dogs.
Food & Drink
Adults receive mince pies and a festive drink (with soft drink alternative available), while children get a drink and chocolate. Gluten-free biscuits and dairy-free chocolate options are available. Refreshments are also available at station buffets and cafes.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow ample time for boarding and settling in, especially with the extended arrival window.
- If you require the accessible coach or have specific needs for your visit, it's highly recommended to call ahead to 0333 320 2830 to make arrangements.
- Consider booking the Santa diesel shuttle from Heywood Station if you prefer easier parking, as the parking at Bolton Street Station is very limited.
- If you are booking for an individual over 17 who would like a present, be sure to contact customer.services@eastlancsrailway.co.uk directly in advance.
- While gifts are age-appropriate, they cannot be changed on the day, so ensure you book the correct ticket type for the age of your child.
Frequently Asked Questions
Will our service be steam hauled?
Every effort will be made to ensure steam locomotives haul the services, but the East Lancashire Railway reserves the right to substitute a diesel locomotive if a steam locomotive is unavailable. Such substitutions do not entitle passengers to a refund or transfer if core elements of the experience are fulfilled.
Where does the Santa Special start?
All Santa Special steam trains start and end at Bury Bolton Street Station. It is recommended to start at Heywood Station and book the Santa diesel shuttle to Bury.
How long is the Santa Special journey?
The round trip experience from Bury Bolton Street Station lasts approximately 1 hour and 30 minutes.
What present can I expect to receive?
Gender-neutral gifts are provided based on age range. Under 3s receive a teddy; other age brackets receive age-appropriate gifts. Gifts cannot be changed on the day.
Is the experience accessible for people with limited mobility?
Every Santa Special Steam Train has a specially adapted carriage for wheelchair assistance, offered as a private carriage to one family. To book, call 0333 320 2830. Registered carers also travel for free with proof of disability.