Santa Specials - Dean Forest Railway
Embark on a magical Christmas journey with Santa Specials at Dean Forest Railway. Ride behind a real steam engine through the forest, meet Santa and his elves, and receive presents. Adults can enjoy a miniature, and everyone gets a mince pie. Optional Christmas Afternoon Tea or picnic bags are available for an enhanced experience.
What to Expect
Christmas steam train ride with Santa and elves
Event Details
Duration
1 hour 15 minutes
Ages
All ages
Neighborhood
Forest of Dean
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Dean Forest Railway
Food & Drink
Optional Christmas Afternoon Tea, Cream Tea, Christmas Picnic Bag, or Bacon Roll & Hot Drink available for purchase. Café serving light takeaway refreshments. Prosecco available for purchase (18+).
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive, magical, traditional
Energy Level
Low
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Location
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ – Get tickets
- Parking: Free parking for cars and coaches is available at Norchard Station.
- Accessibility: Stations and steam trains are fully wheelchair accessible. Limited wheelchair space on board the train requires advance contact when booking.
- Pets: No pets allowed (assistance dogs only)
Tips & Advice
- Book tickets well in advance, as these popular Santa Specials often sell out.
- Contact the railway before booking if you require wheelchair access to ensure space availability on the train.
- Consider adding on a Christmas Afternoon Tea or picnic bag for a more complete festive experience.
- Arrive at Norchard Station with ample time before your departure, as seating is allocated on the day.
- Check the railway's timetable for connections if arriving by mainline train at Lydney Junction, as services may depart from Norchard.
Special Events & Promotions
- Age-appropriate gifts for fare-paying children
- Alcoholic miniature for adults
- Warmed mince pies for all passengers
- Optional Christmas Afternoon Tea, Cream Tea, or Picnic Bag add-ons
- Café serving light takeaway refreshments
Quick Actions
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included with the Santa Specials ticket?
Each fare-paying child receives an age-appropriate gift. All passengers receive a miniature alcoholic drink (selection available) and a warmed mince pie.
Can I book tickets on the day?
Advanced booking is highly recommended as Santa Specials are usually a sell-out event. It is best to book online in advance.
What are the accessibility options?
The stations and steam trains are fully wheelchair accessible. Due to limited space on board, please contact the railway when booking to confirm availability.
What food and drink options are available?
You can pre-order Christmas Afternoon Tea, Cream Tea, Christmas Picnic Bags, or Bacon Rolls. The café also offers light takeaway refreshments, and prosecco can be purchased.
What is the pet policy?
Regrettably, dogs are not permitted on the Santa Specials, with the exception of assistance dogs.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.