THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride
Passengers board a real moving train where dancing chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies while listening to a reading of the classic book by Chris Van Allsburg. The journey features live theatrical performances set to the motion picture soundtrack, festive caroling, and a visit to the North Pole. Guests meet Santa Claus and receive the First Gift of Christmas, a silver sleigh bell.
What to Expect
Theatrical holiday train ride to the North Pole with Santa.
Event Details
Duration
120 minutes.
Food & Drink
Passengers are served hot chocolate and a treat, described as a cookie, by dancing chefs; the ticket for children aged 2 and under does not include these refreshments.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and theatrical
Energy Level
Low
Budget
££
Photo Friendly
Moderate
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: Adult/Child (3–15) tickets from £32.95–£49.95, with prices varying between off-peak and peak dates. Children aged 2 and under can join for £5; that ticket includes journey entry but no dedicated seat, hot chocolate or cookie. Premium experience upgrade: an additional £12 per person, including a limited-edition ceramic mug and souvenir bag. – Get tickets
- Parking: Allow time to park before check-in.
- Accessibility: Space is available for one wheelchair per experience.
- Pets: Only official guide/service dogs are permitted on board; guests bringing one should let the organizer know.
Tips & Advice
- Book online ahead of time, as dates are selective and later or alternative trains may not have space if you miss your booking.
- Arrive 30 minutes before your booked start for parking, check-in and facilities; strict boarding cut-offs apply and late arrivals receive no refund.
- Wear pyjamas if you like, but choose sturdy closed-toed shoes and dress for the weather because the carriages are not heated.
- Book as one party if you want seats together; separate bookings must request to sit together before 1 November.
- Leave pushchairs and car-seat sections off the train because heritage carriage space is limited; a designated area is available for storage at your own risk.
Special Events & Promotions
- A 50% discount is available on one carer’s ticket when accompanying a guest with an Access card (+1) or Hynt card; book at full price and email proof of eligibility for a refund.
- Four dedicated ALN sessions, two on 13 November and two on 3 December, have reduced capacity and sensory-friendly adaptations.
- A Premium experience upgrade is available for an additional ticket cost and includes a limited-edition ceramic mug and souvenir bag.
- Sign up to the mailing list for access to tickets one day before they go on sale.
- Children aged 2 and under can use a separate ticket, which does not include a dedicated seat, hot chocolate or cookie.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
How long should I allow for the experience?
The full experience lasts about 120 minutes, including a pre-ride performance, the train journey and a stop at the North Pole; allow extra time for check-in and the gift shop.
What should passengers wear and bring?
Pyjamas are encouraged, but wear sturdy, closed-toed shoes rather than slippers and dress for the weather because the carriages are not heated. Have your golden ticket ready for the Conductor.
What is served on board, and can dietary needs be accommodated?
Passengers are served hot chocolate and a treat. Booking asks about gluten-free and vegan requirements, but nut allergies cannot be accommodated. Children aged two and under do not receive hot chocolate or a cookie.
Can children aged two and under join, and what is included for them?
Yes. Their ticket includes entry to the journey but no dedicated seat, hot chocolate or cookie.
What accessibility arrangements are available?
There is space for one wheelchair per experience. Four dedicated ALN sessions have reduced capacity and sensory-friendly adaptations; one carer's ticket can receive a discount when accompanying a guest with an Access card (+1) or Hynt card.
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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. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.