East Lancashire Railway festive Santa Specials to return

Families will make enchanted memories to share as they take a trip through the magical Irwell Valley alongside colourful elves, festive surprises, and of course Santa Claus.

The journey starts at Bury Bolton Street Station, which is transformed into a stunning winter wonderland with a carol singing choir of polar bears, a talking Christmas tree, stunning ice princess and a warm greeting from Mrs Claus or her elves.

Once you hop on board you’ll experience the invigorating atmosphere of a heritage steam train as it takes you on an 80-minute journey to Rawtenstall and back, with festive fun throughout.

Visitors of all ages will meet their favourite Christmas characters and have the chance to sing along to the classics of the season alongside a brass band.

Every child gets the chance to tell the big man himself what they wish for this Christmas, will receive a gift and capture that perfect Santa selfie.

What’s included:

• Grown-ups can look forward to mince pies and a festive tipple or soft drink
• Children receive a Fruit Shoot, chocolate and activity pack
• Winter wonderland walkthrough at Bury Bolton Street Station
• Interactions with special Christmas characters including old favourites like the elves, Mrs Claus and our very own ice princess
• An 80-minute steam train ride from Bury to Rawtenstall and return
• A visit from Santa with extra time to talk and take photographs.
• A Christmas gift for every child, selected by age brand
• High quality children’s activity books
• Traditional brass band on board

Tickets are available to book now here with prices starting from £23 for adults.

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 £2 for children and £3 for adults and are only available in advance.