.jpeg?trim=0,0,0,0&width=1200&height=800&crop=1200:800 "The best UK real-life ‘Polar Express’ trains – UK Times")
As we tear through the December doors of Advent calendars, the usual package of festivities – markets, pantomimes and a spin around the local ice rink – may already be ticked off your winter wishlist.
But, there’s still time to go full steam ahead on a Christmas train ride with a lot more magic than your daily commute.
In these carriages, choirs carol sing, conductors summon hot chocolate and Santa takes a seat as you chug along the track Polar Express-style.
From glitzy five-course lunches rolling through the Kent countryside to illuminated steam trains, you’ll want to hold on tight to your ticket on these Yuletide journeys.
All aboard – here’s our pick of the top festive trains where the bells still ring this Christmas.
Read more: The best Christmas markets in the UK
Best UK Christmas train rides
1. Festive Lunch, Belmond British Pullman, London
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Climb aboard the vintage carriages of the British Pullman for a dose of 1920s nostalgia this Christmas. Departing the Belmond lounge at London Victoria, this round trip through the winter countryside has all the trimmings. Sure, with tickets from £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 jazz renditions of Abba over a mulled wine, this Christmas journey is certainly a cracker.
Dates: Throughout November and December
Book now
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2. Steam Illuminations, Watercress Line, Hampshire
Light up December’s drearier days with a ride on this dazzling illuminated steam train in Hampshire. This vibrant light and sound display features live entertainment, light-up LED wristbands, a station show and an onboard trolley service for the ultimate festive sing-along. Trains depart for return journeys from either Alresford or Alton for the cosy two-hour adventure on the Watercress Line.
Dates: November 2025 – January 2026
Price: From £34 per person
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Read more: The best Christmas light trails to visit in the UK over the festive season
3. The Norfolk Lights Express, North Norfolk
For a lit-up trip on the North Norfolk railway line, it’s all aboard the Norfolk Lights Express this Christmas. Departing after dark from Sheringham station, the five-and-a-half-mile return journey passes 10 lineside light installations telling the story of the railway’s 50-year history alongside a full soundtrack of festive classics. Hop off at Holt for a tipple in the onboard bar and finish with a hot bap back in Sheringham.
Dates: 14 November 2025 – 3 Jan 2026
Price: From £20 per person
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4. Christmas Train of Lights, Dartmouth Steam Railway, Devon
See the south west in a new light on Dartmouth’s technicolour steam train of lights this month. Thousands of lights have decked out vintage carriages on the line from Paignton to Kingswear, with a show that weaves through Greenway tunnel, an enchanted forest and the River Dart. For an extra dose of Christmas magic, book a sit-down with Santa to get a personal present on the return journey.
Dates: 28 November – 30 December
Price: From £29.95 per adult
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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 the NYMR Santa Express next week. The Polar Express-style train ride from Pickering station is set to be packed with songs, games and Christmas spirit, with all children receiving a keepsake key from Saint Nick to take home.
Dates: 13, 14 and 20 – 24 December
Price: From £34.50 per person
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6. Santa Special, Isle of Wight Steam Railway, Isle of Wight
Santa is set to make a stop on the Isle of Wight’s historic steam railway this December. The 10-mile round trip in cosy Christmas-themed carriages features a free gift for every child – after they’ve enjoyed the fairground rides, festive entertainment, and a miniature winter wonderland on the platform at Havenstreet.
Dates: 13, 14 and 20–24 December
Price: From £25 per adult
Book now
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