Severn Valley Railway announces return of Santa Trains

With the children back at school and the nights starting to draw in, the heritage railway is busy planning an unforgettable Christmas experience. 

From foodies to festive music fans, the SVR promises something for the whole family to enjoy.  

Lewis Maddox, the SVR's visitor engagement manager, said: "Our popular Santa Trains have rightfully claimed their place as a Christmas tradition for many families. 

"We have an all-new professional panto show at Arley for 2024 featuring the mischievous elves Jingle and Jangle, and Father Christmas himself will be making an appearance on stage too."

The Enchanted Express departs from Bridgnorth (Image: SVR)

Santa trains depart from the winter wonderland of Kidderminster Town Station and services will run on weekends starting from Saturday, November 30 plus Christmas Eve. 

Mr Maddox said: "This is a truly magical family experience. It’s built around the classic poem "T'was the Night Before Christmas" and features narration by the unmistakable voice of Dame Julie Walters.

"Each child will receive a present and of course there’s reserved seating for the whole family." 

For food and drink lovers, the SVR has curated a range of first-class dining experiences for Christmas.

On selected dates in December, there are Enchanted Afternoon Teas, Festive Gin Trains, a premium Yuletide Evening Dining Experience and the Festive Spice Train. New for this year is the Evening Santa Pies service, which features a two-course meal and departs from Kidderminster on Friday, December 13 and Friday, December 20. 

If a festive musical journey is what you’re looking for then the SVR’s Carol Trains are a must.

Travel on board a festive evening Carol Train at the SVR (Image: Tony Carwithen)

Combining the magic of heritage rail travel in the darkness of a winter’s evening, you’ll travel from Kidderminster to The Engine House at Highley for a Christmas concert amongst the locomotives on display.

Mulled wine and mince pies will be on sale.

Mr Maddox added: "All-in-all, we’ve got Christmas all wrapped up with our range of experience.

"This is such a special time of year, and in the heritage setting of the Severn Valley Railway, it’s sure to be the perfect chance to make memories."

For more information on the range of Christmas experiences at the SVR, and to book tickets, visit www.svr.co.uk