Epping Ongar Railway Santa Specials
Guests begin their journey aboard a vintage London bus from Epping or Ongar to North Weald Station, where they can browse festive food stalls and listen to a live brass band. Travelers then board the Santa Special train for a return journey through ancient Epping Forest accompanied by entertainers. During the train ride, Santa and his helpers visit children at their seats to deliver presents.
What to Expect
Festive heritage train ride through Epping Forest with a visit from Santa.
Event Details
Duration
Allow up to 2½ hours for the Santa Special experience from Epping or Ongar.
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Epping Ongar Railway
Food & Drink
A festive food stall and hot and cold light refreshments, including hot chocolate, are available to purchase before boarding.
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and nostalgic
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
££
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Moderate
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: November early-bird fares: Family Space for up to 2 people £65.00; Family Space for up to 4 people £130.00; compartment for up to 6 people £240.00; compartment for up to 8 people £320.00. December standard tickets: Family Space for up to 2 people £70.00; Family Space for up to 4 people £140.00; compartment for up to 6 people £260.00; compartment for up to 8 people £345.00. All fares include the vintage London bus service from Epping or Ongar, a return train journey from North Weald, and a present for all children. Children less than 1 year old are not counted as part of the group numbers. Hot and cold light refreshments are available to purchase before boarding. – Get tickets
- Hours: 28 and 29 November: 11.40, 13.20 and 15:00; December dates: 10.35, 12.15, 13.55 and 15.35, except no 15.35 departure on 24 December. These are the departure times of the inclusive park-and-ride bus from Epping or Ongar.
- Parking: Parking at North Weald is limited and available by pre-arrangement for registered Blue Badge holders. The experience starts on the inclusive vintage London bus from Epping Underground station or Ongar; additional parking and bus information is linked.
- Accessibility: Wheelchairs cannot be accommodated on the vintage buses or train, though level access is available at North Weald with a small step up into carriages.
- Pets: Dogs are not accommodated onboard the train, except assistance dogs.
Tips & Advice
- Take the Central Line to Epping if you can, because the included vintage London bus picks up right outside Epping Underground station.
- Avoid parking at Epping station on weekdays, when its car park is very busy, and use Ongar's town centre car parks instead.
- Arrive with time to park before your booked bus, because missed departures aren't refunded and later trains on the day are often full.
- Use the toilets at North Weald before boarding, since there are none on the train and the journey lasts about 85 minutes.
- Enter each child's age and gender carefully when booking, because Santa uses those details to pick a suitable present.
Special Events & Promotions
- Early-bird fares apply on 28 and 29 November.
- Private compartments for up to 6 or 8 people can be booked for exclusive use.
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
Where should I park?
There's no public parking at North Weald or Ongar stations. Park at Epping Underground station or in one of the three council car parks in Ongar town centre, then take the included vintage London bus. Blue Badge holders can arrange limited parking at North Weald before buying tickets.
Is it accessible for wheelchair users?
Wheelchairs can't be carried on the train or the vintage buses. North Weald has level access with a small step up into the train, and the Santa Specials team can advise which compartment or family space to book so a person can be helped to a suitable seat.
Can I bring a pushchair?
Leave it at home or in the car if you can. Pushchairs must be folded on the vintage buses, and space on the train is limited, but you can leave one at North Weald until you return.
Are there toilets on the train?
No. Toilets and nappy changing are at North Weald station. In an emergency you can use the toilet at Ongar, which also has nappy changing in the ladies'. Epping Underground station has limited facilities.
Is there food and drink?
Hot and cold light refreshments are sold at North Weald before you board, including hot chocolate. There's also a festive food stall while a live brass band plays.
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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.