Santa Specials at Kent & East Sussex Railway

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Santa Specials: making magical Christmas memories for generations

When it comes to magical childhood Christmas experiences, there’s nothing quite like a steam train ride: heading into the wintry countryside, with the prospect of meeting Santa - all without moving from the comfort of your seat in a heritage carriage.

For over fifty years, the award-winning* Kent & East Sussex Railway (K&ESR) Santa Specials have been delighting generations of families and helping them to make amazing Christmas memories. Those who first experienced the magic as children in the 1970s have returned years later with their own families and are now bringing their grandchildren as part of a continuing festive family tradition.

As well as a magical 75-minute steam train ride, a K&ESR Santa Special experience includes: age-appropriate, high-quality presents (hand-delivered by Santa himself); a family group photo; complimentary hot drinks, including mulled wine for adults; entrance to the Winter Wonderland marquee and unlimited rides on the vintage gallopers at Tenterden Town Station. Babies under 18 months of age travel free and receive a gift.

The main attraction - Santa himself - travels on board the train, giving out gifts – named for each child - to the children at their seats, ably assisted by his trusty team of Elves.

 

This year there are also three additional special packages – Bronze, Silver and Gold - offering extra features:

Bronze standard class - Passengers receive a complimentary refreshment pack to enjoy during the journey containing a mince pie for each adult, a chocolate bar for every child and soft drinks for all. An on-board magician will also keep little ones entertained until Santa arrives at their seats.

Passengers in Silver and Gold class carriages meet Jingle and Sparkle, Santa’s Head Elves, who award Elf-ship diplomas for upholding the spirit of Christmas!

Silver first class – As well as a deluxe refreshment pack, there are chocolates for children aged 12-15 plus a complimentary trolley service for adults, with a choice of an alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink included in the price.

Gold premium class – Adults enjoy a sparking train ride with unlimited prosecco; beer or non-alcoholic beverages; a selection of festive cakes and warm luxury mince pies plus character chocolates and fruit drinks for the children, all served at your seats.

 

For families looking for something a little less intense, the 11.15am service on Saturday 29th November has been designated a 'Quiet Train'. Whilst no Christmas music will be played, all other inclusive features remain part of the experience. A wheelchair accessible coach is also available on this service.

The 2025 Santa Specials run every weekend from Saturday 29th November until Sunday 21st December, plus Tuesday 23rd December and Christmas Eve, Wednesday 24th December.

Online booking is essential at www.kesr.org,uk. Then, on the day, all you need to do is relax in the comfort of your reserved seats and wait for Santa to come to you!