Santa Trains at Severn Valley Railway
There are two brand-new events for Christmas at The Severn Valley Railway this year, with services starting on 29 November. The Elf Express departs from Bridgnorth station in Shropshire, while the Santa’s Steam Special starts out from Kidderminster in Worcestershire.
Selected Santa’s Steam Specials will operate as ‘relaxed’ services, to prioritise comfort and inclusivity.
Santa’s Steam Specials
New Christmas Show for 2025 – The Great Christmas Train Rescue at Arley Station.
Every year, Santa delivers presents across the world by magical steam train, powered by festive cheer and a whole lot of Christmas spirit. But this time, there’s trouble on the tracks. The sneezy, scheming Victor Von Sneeze has a dastardly plan to derail Christmas itself!
Luckily, Polly the brave polar bear is on his trail, ready to leap into action and maybe even melt the villain’s frosty heart. Starring Santa himself, two mischievous elves, some toe-tapping tunes, and a whole lot of festive fun, you’ve got a Christmas adventure like no other.
Working in partnership with Wise Owl Theatre Company and featuring incredible puppetry by Matthew Forbes, Associate Puppetry Director for the National Theatre’s War Horse, this production offers a visual feast that is as captivating as the story itself. The stunning puppetry brings Santa’s magical world to life, making this a truly unforgettable Christmas experience. With a sprinkle of magic, lots of love, and plenty of laughter, this heart-warming family show is the perfect festive treat.
Back on the train, presents will be waiting for all children, before your train steams back to Kidderminster. There’ll be the option to leave the train at Bewdley on selected departures to visit the historic riverside town, before travelling back to Kidderminster later in the day.
Departures are available throughout the day from Kidderminster Station (DY10 1QX), with the experience lasting at least 2.5 hours.
Relaxed Santa Steam Specials are on selected dates for those who would prefer a relaxed experience which brings down the volume, keeps lighting on at a low level throughout and offers a reduced capacity so there’s more spaces around each group’s booking.
Please note, you do not personally meet Santa during the experience. Instead, you will see him on stage at Arley.
The Elf Express
Santa has put a very special plan in motion…Every year, before Santa’s sleigh takes flight… before the list is checked twice… before Christmas begins… a very special train rolls into town.
To help carry out this joyful mission, Santa has brought along a handpicked team of his very best elves. These North Pole favourites are experts in spreading smiles and keeping the spirit of Christmas alive. This enchanting, theatrical journey brings the season to life in an interactive experience for all ages. Along the route, passengers will meet beloved North Pole characters and enjoy dazzling on-train interactions. From festive songs and silly antics to heart-warming surprises, The Elf Express is filled with unforgettable moments and Christmas magic. Plus each child will also receive a present shaped surprise during the journey.
Working in partnership with Wise Owl Theatre Company, The Elf Express is more than just a train ride…
Departures from Bridgnorth Station are available at 10am, 12.15pm, 2.30pm and 4.45pm.
The Severn Valley Railway has much more to offer – see further events taking place over the festive period here, to include Festive Bistro Express, Enchanted Afternoon Tea’s, the Bewdley Lights Special Train – Severn Valley Railway and more.
Click here for even more local Christmas events with Raring2go!
