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Peak Rail Santa and Steam Special
Darley Dale
Festive steam train journey with Santa and entertainers.
About
Embark on a magical Christmas adventure aboard Peak Rail's Santa and Steam Special! Journey through the picturesque Derwent Valley on a festive steam train, where professional entertainers will delight you. Santa and his helpers will visit each seat, bringing age-appropriate gifts for all children, along with drinks and snacks. Adults can enjoy a glass of wine and a mince pie, making this a truly enchanting holiday experience for the whole family.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Magical, festive, traditional
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
Table of 2: £40-£50, Table of 3: £60-£70, Table of 4: £80-£90, Table of 6: £120-£130, Compartment of 6: £120-£130 (prices vary by date)
Duration
Approximately 1 hour 10 minutes per journey
Ages
All ages (children 0-18 months can sit on a knee, up to 2 per table/compartment)
Schedule
Trains depart in December on Saturdays (6th, 13th, 20th) and Sundays (7th, 14th, 21st), plus Monday 22nd, Tuesday 23rd, and Wednesday 24th. Services run at 10:30, 12:20, 14:10, and 16:00 (the 16:00 service is not available on Dec 24th).
Organizer
Peak Rail
Practical Information
Parking
Rowsley South Station has a large free car park.
Accessibility
Due to limited space on the train, only assistance dogs are allowed. Wheelchair users can be accommodated in a specific space in coach F, with capacity for one party of up to two people plus one wheelchair user per train. Advance contact is required for this arrangement.
Pet Policy
Assistance dogs only allowed on the train.
Food & Drink
Adults receive a glass of wine and a mince pie. Children receive a drink and snack. Dietary requirements can be catered for upon request.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book your tickets well in advance, especially for popular dates and times, as these festive journeys are known to sell out quickly.
- Arrive at Rowsley South Station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow ample time for parking and boarding.
- Inform them of any dietary requirements for both children and adults when booking to ensure everyone can enjoy the provided refreshments.
- Dress warmly in layers, as train carriages can be cooler than expected, especially during winter months.
- Have your camera ready to capture the magical moments as Santa visits your table and the festive scenery passes by the window.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the duration of the train journey?
The return train journey lasts approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes.
Are there any special provisions for accessibility?
Yes, assistance dogs are permitted. A wheelchair-accessible space is available in coach F, but advance booking is essential and capacity is limited.
What refreshments are provided?
Children receive a drink and snack, while adults are offered a glass of wine and a mince pie. Dietary needs can be catered for upon request.
Can I bring my own food and drinks?
While specific food and drink are provided, it's best to check with the organizer directly regarding bringing your own, especially for young children.
What happens if I have dietary restrictions?
They can cater for dietary requirements for both children and adults; please ensure you mention these when booking your tickets.