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Santa Express at Keighley & Worth Valley Railway
Haworth, West Yorkshire
Heritage steam train journeys through the picturesque Worth Valley.
About
Embark on a magical journey aboard the Santa Express, where the charm of heritage rail travel comes alive. They offer enchanting steam train rides through the picturesque Worth Valley, creating unforgettable holiday memories for all ages. Beyond the festive Santa Express, the railway hosts a variety of special events and themed dining experiences throughout the year, ensuring a unique adventure for every visitor.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, couples, train enthusiasts
Vibe
Festive, nostalgic, charming
Energy Level
Low to medium
Budget
Mid-Range
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Medium
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
Ages
All ages welcome
Schedule
Offers scheduled steam train journeys every weekend of the year, daily during the Summer. Also offers special events such as locomotive galas, Santa Steam Specials, and visits by popular children’s TV characters. Every October, the Railway holds one of the north’s finest Beer & Music Festivals. Offers a variety of dining trains on selected dates.
Organizer
Keighley and Worth Valley Railway Preservation Society Limited
Practical Information
Parking
Keighley Station: Limited free parking. Ingrow West Station: Large free parking. Damems Station: No Access. Oakworth Station: Small free uneven car park. Haworth Station: Large pay & display parking. Oxenhope Station: Large free parking & overflow.
Accessibility
https://kwvr.co.uk/visiting-the-kwvr/accessibility/
Pet Policy
Service animals welcome
Food & Drink
Award-winning on-train buffet serving hot and cold drinks, including real ale and wines. Station buffets at Keighley & Oxenhope, and a tea hut at Oakworth.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book tickets in advance, especially for popular dates, to secure your spot on the Santa Express and potentially save on Day Rover tickets if purchased three days ahead.
- Arrive 20-30 minutes before your scheduled departure to collect any pre-booked tickets and find your seats, ensuring a relaxed start to your festive journey.
- Check the timetable for the specific dates and times of the Santa Express and other seasonal events, as well as the type of locomotive (steam or heritage diesel) that will be operating.
- Explore the various stations along the line; Oxenhope and Ingrow offer large free car parks, while Haworth has pay & display, providing different options for arrival.
- Don't miss the on-train buffet, which offers a selection of hot and cold drinks, including real ale and wines, as well as tasty treats available at station buffets.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Santa Express experience like?
The Santa Express offers a magical steam train journey through the Worth Valley, creating a festive atmosphere for families. While specific details for the current year's experience are best confirmed directly, past events have included festive decorations and a memorable journey.
Are there other Christmas events at the Keighley & Worth Valley Railway?
Yes, in addition to the Santa Express, they have previously featured events like 'A Christmas Carol' performances and other seasonal celebrations, so it's worth checking their schedule for the full range of holiday activities.
Can I purchase tickets on the day?
While Day Rover tickets can be purchased on the day, booking in advance is recommended, especially for popular events like the Santa Express, to guarantee your spot and potentially benefit from early booking discounts.
What are the accessibility options for the railway?
They offer an Accessibility Coach with wider doors and space for wheelchairs on standard services. Detailed information on station access, accessible toilets, and coach availability can be found on their accessibility page.
Is parking available at the stations?
Parking availability varies by station. Oxenhope and Ingrow stations have large free car parks, Haworth has pay & display, and Keighley has limited free parking. Oakworth has very limited parking, and Damems is not accessible by road.