Best Train Journeys To Celebrate Christmas In The UK

Christmas is now less than a month away and there are many ways to celebrate the holidays, including these five festive train journeys across the UK. While watching beautiful scenes pass by you may find these rail adventures will be one of the best Christmas experiences ever. Read on to find out more and how much the journeys cost.

Celebrate Christmas with train journeys across the UK

As Christmas draws near, families are getting excited and many already have their holiday decorations up, both inside and outside. Now is the perfect time to get into the festive spirit by taking beautiful train journeys across the UK.  Whether you wish to visit Santa, enjoy twinkling decorations or partake of a gourmet meal, these are some of the best ways to experience the holidays this year.

The Jacobite, West Coast Railways for Christmas

Pictured above and top, if there are Harry Potter fans reading this, you will likely recognize The Jacobite for its role as the Hogwarts Express. Meanwhile, this iconic steam train runs between Fort William and Mallaig in Scotland. The journey includes crossing the Glenfinnan Viaduct while offering panoramic views of the Scottish Highlands.

Landscapes offer lochs, mountains, castles and wildlife along the journey. Moreover, you can visit the Glenfinnan Monument, built to commemorate the Jacobite uprising in 1745 and the Glenfinnan Station Museum with its displays of railway memorabilia. On your journey, enjoy snacks and drinks in the buffet car, including the famed local whisky. As for pricing, the tariff starts from £65 ($82), Find out more about the train journeys on the official website for The Jacobite.

Train journeys on The Santa Special, East Lancashire Railway in the UK

Families who want to meet Santa Claus and his elves will particularly enjoy The Santa Special. This iconic steam train travels from Bury to Rawtenstall, while passing through the pretty Irwell Valley on the way. Besides gazing at beautiful landscapes from the windows, families will be entertained by magicians, musicians and balloon modelers and will be given a mince pie and a drink. Moreover, the kids will also receive a gift from Santa, along with a commemorative badge.

On the journey, passengers will have a chance to visit the Christmas Craft Fair at Bury Transport Museum. While there, they can purchase delightful handmade gifts and decorations. Ticket prices are reasonable, starting from £5 ($6.30). Find out more on the railway’s website here.

The Polar Express, South Devon Railway for Christmas

Those who have read the classic book of the same name, or watched the movie, will truly enjoy this immersive experience that brings the story to life. Board The Polar Express at Okehampton Station and be greeted by the conductor, who punches your golden ticket. From there, listen to the classic story while enjoying hot chocolate and cookies on the journey.

Moreover, families will get to see the North Pole, where Santa boards the train to give every child a Silver Sleigh Bell. Meanwhile, the whole family can join in Christmas carols and even wear their pajamas, just like in the movie. Ticket prices start from £85.99 ($108) and you can read more information at the official website.

Christmas train journeys on The Norfolk Lights Express, North Norfolk Railway

For more Christmas décor and twinkling lights, board the Norfolk Lights Express. Meanwhile, this diesel train transports the whole family on a delightful journey between Dereham and Wynmondham Abbey, while enjoying beautiful views along the way.

On boarding the train, adults will receive a glass of mulled wine and a tasty mince pie. Meanwhile, the kids will receive a goody bag and a certificate and will get to listen to popular Christmas music. Read more about this remarkably festive journey on the official website. Ticket prices start at £22.50 ($28.00)

The Northern Belle, luxury train journeys for Christmas

For those seeking pure luxury on a Christmas train journey, The Northern Belle ticks all of those boxes. In fact, the train has been voted one of the best train trips in the world by Conde Nast Traveler readers for two years in a row. This vintage train brings back to life the glamour of the 1930s with its art deco interiors, live entertainment and fine dining.

Meanwhile, families can choose from a range of destinations, including Bath, Edinburgh, Chester, or York. Onboard, they will enjoy a delicious festive lunch, afternoon tea, or dinner on board depending on the timing.

Meanwhile, passengers will also be treated to a welcome drink and a souvenir, as well as a visit from Santa. Among the available train journeys, this is a perfect way to celebrate Christmas and spoil your family. Ticket prices start from £44 ($55) and more information is available on the official website.