East Lancashire Railway’s Santa Specials are returning this festive season, offering families a magical ride through Irwell Valley - with Father Christmas himself even making an appearance. Tickets for the Santa Special trains have been selling fast though with several dates in December already sold out.
Families are being urged to book their seats to avoid disappointment. This year the Winter Wonderland at East Lancashire Railway is opening earlier, with the first train leaving Bury Bolton Street with Santa aboard leaving on Saturday November 26.
Visitors will be able to explore an extended winter wonderland at Bury Bolton Street Station, where they will meet elves and new characters including the magical talking Christmas trees, Mrs Claus and the railway’s Ice Princess. Then the festive fun continues as you hop onboard one of the railway’s unique heritage steam trains.
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Passengers will be taken on an 80 minute round trip from Bury to Rawtenstall Station. Santa himself will be handing out gifts while a brass band will play traditional Christmas favourites - singing along is optional, but it is encouraged.
As well as festive fun for the kids, adults can look forward to a mince pie and a festive tipple of soft drink. Children can get stuck into chocolate, juice and festive activity packs.
You can still book tickets for the Santa Specials although some trains on December 4, 10 and 11 are already fully-booked. Tickets for adults and children start from £23, with cheaper options for children under three.
Families can also start their journey at Heywood Station where they can park for free and take the Santa Diesel Train Shuttle to Bury Bolton Street Station for the starting point of the steam-hauled Santa Specials. Shuttle tickets are priced at £1.50 for children and £2.50 for adults.
For more information and to book tickets, visit the East Lancashire Railway website.
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