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As we break down the December doors of the advent calendar, it’s as usual festive package – Markets, pantomimes and a wander around the local ice rink – might already be on your winter wish list.
But, there’s still time to go full steam ahead on a Christmas train ride with an experience even more magical than your daily commute.
On these trains, choirs sing carols, conductors call out hot chocolate and Santa sits down as you walk down the track. polar express-Style.
From sparkling five-course lunches kent countryside for illuminated steam trainsYou’ll want to hold tight to your tickets on these Yuletide trips.
All aboard – here’s our pick of the top festive trains where bells still ring this Christmas.
Read more: Best Christmas markets in the UK
The best UK Christmas train journeys
1. Festive Lunch, Belmond British Pullman, London
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This Christmas, hop aboard one of British Pullman’s vintage carriages for a trip down memory lane to the 1920s. Departing from the Belmond Lounge in London Victoria, this round trip through the winter countryside has all the trimmings. Admittedly, with tickets costing £585 per person, the festive lunch isn’t the most wallet-friendly. But, with a sparkling champagne reception, five courses of festive fine dining and a pitstop at Dover Priory for Abba’s jazz renditions over mulled wine, this Christmas trip is sure to be a cracker.
Dates: throughout November and December
Read more: There’s still budget time to escape the winter sun as Christmas airfares rise
2. Steam Illuminations, Watercress Line, Hampshire
Brighten up the dreary December days with this brightly lit steam train ride in Hampshire. This vibrant light and sound display includes live entertainment, light-up LED wristbands, a station show and an onboard trolley service for the ultimate festive sing-along. Trains depart from Alresford or Alton for a return journey for a relaxing two-hour adventure on the Watercress Line.
Dates: November 2025 – January 2026
price: From £34 per person
Read more: The best Christmas light trails to visit in the UK during the festive season
3. Norfolk Lights Express, North Norfolk
For a sparkling journey on the North Norfolk Railway Line, it’s all there norfolk Lights Express this Christmas. Departing after dark from Sheringham Station, the five and a half mile return journey passes 10 lineside light installations that tell the story of the railway’s 50 year history as well as a full soundtrack of festive classics. Hop on over to Holt for a tipple at the onboard bar and finish with a hot bap back in Sheringham.
Dates: 14 November 2025 – 3 January 2026
price: From £20 per person
4. Christmas Train of Lights, Dartmouth Steam Railway, Devon
See the Southwest in a new light this month on Dartmouth’s Technicolor Steam Train of Lights. Thousands of lights adorn vintage carriages on the line from Paignton to Kingswear, with a show through the Greenway Tunnel, a magical forest and the River Dart. For an extra dose of Christmas magic, book a seat with Santa to receive a personal gift on the return visit.
Dates: 28 November – 30 December
price: From £29.95 per adult
Read more: Where is it warm in January? The best places for winter sunshine in 2026
5. Santa Express, North Yorkshire Moors Railway (NYMR), Yorkshire
Elves Elton, Joey Marshmallow, Chef Custard and Chris Mouse are on hand to help the main man (Santa) meet families on next week’s NYMR Santa Express. polar express-style train ride from Pickering Station will be filled with songs, games and Christmas spirit, with all children receiving a gift key from St. Nick to take home.
Dates: 13, 14 and 20-24 December
price: From £34.50 per person
6. Santa Special, Isle of Wight Steam Railway, Isle of Wight
Santa is ready to stop at this Isle of WightHistoric Steam Railway this December. The 10-mile round trip on cozy Christmas-themed carriages features a free gift for each child – as they enjoy fairground rides, festive entertainment and a miniature winter wonderland on the HeavenStreet stage.
Dates: 13, 14 and 20-24 December
price: From £25 per adult
Read more: Eight unsung snowy destinations for a winter wonderland vacation