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Epping Ongar Railway Santa Specials
Ongar, Essex
Festive steam train journey with Santa
About
Embark on a magical journey with Santa on the Epping Ongar Railway's Santa Specials! This enchanting experience includes a vintage London bus ride to North Weald Station, where festive food and live brass music set the mood. Meet Santa and his friends before boarding a steam-hauled train for a delightful return trip through ancient Epping Forest. Every child receives a special present from Santa, making it a truly memorable holiday adventure.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive, magical, traditional
Energy Level
Moderate
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
Tickets range from Bronze early bird to Gold premium, with options for Family Spaces and private Compartments.
Duration
Up to 2.5 hours
Ages
All children receive a present from Santa. Children under 1 year old are not counted towards group numbers.
Schedule
Selected dates in December 2025. Runs on 29 and 30 November and on 6, 7, 13, 14, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23, 24 December. Specific times vary by date.
Organizer
Epping Ongar Railway
Practical Information
Parking
Parking is available at Epping Underground station, Epping High Street, or Ongar High Street. There is no parking at North Weald station.
Pet Policy
No pets allowed (service animals welcome)
Food & Drink
Festive food and hot/cold refreshments available for purchase before boarding.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at North Weald Station early to enjoy the festive food stalls and live brass music before your train departs.
- Consider booking a private compartment for a more intimate and exclusive experience with your group.
- Utilize the vintage London bus Park and Ride service from Epping Underground station to avoid parking hassles and fully embrace the vintage transport theme.
- Dress warmly in layers, as the train journey, while festive, can be cooler, especially when traveling through Epping Forest.
- Check the specific departure times for your chosen date in advance, as they vary and booking early is recommended.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included in the ticket price?
All fares include the vintage bus service, the train journey, and a present for children from Santa.
What are the different ticket options?
They offer Bronze (early bird), Silver (standard), and Gold (premium) tickets, with seating options including Family Spaces and private Compartments for larger groups.
Can I purchase food and drinks?
Yes, festive food and hot/cold refreshments are available for purchase before boarding the train at North Weald Station.
How long does the experience last?
The entire experience, from Epping or Ongar, is planned to last up to 2.5 hours.
Is there parking available?
Parking is limited at the stations; it is recommended to use public car parks in Ongar or Epping and utilize the vintage London bus connection.