Father Christmas Yuletide Express

Father Christmas’s Yuletide Express

A joyful Festive Adventure from Swanage Station.

Step into a world of twinkling lights, festive cheer and timeless Christmas traditions. The Yuletide Express is more than a train ride- it's a heart-warming journey into the magic of the season.

What to expect

Your festive adventure begins at Swanage Station, lovingly dressed in its Christmas best. As the scent of mince pies fills the air and carols drift from the platform, you're welcomed into a cosy, nostalgic celebration.

• All aboard! Settle into your seat for a one-hour return journey through the stunning Purbeck countryside, where wintry views and festive spirit go hand-in-hand.
• Be greeted by our Magic Ticket Collector, who’ll make sure your family is ready for the enchantment ahead.
• Our cheerful Christmas Elves will lead songs, spread joy, and bring smiles to little faces.
• Then, a moment to remember – Father Christmas himself will make his way through the train, meeting each family and delighting every child with a festive gift:
  • A quality Christmas present
  • A traditional candy cane
  • And of course – a satsuma, just like the ones tucked into stockings long ago
• Children can also visit the Christmas Wishing Tree to write and hang up their wishes – a gentle, magical way to share their hopes for the season.

TICKET OPTIONS

Choose the experience that suits your family best:

Tickets sell fast – this event is a treasured part of Christmas for many local families. Book early to secure your place aboard the Yuletide Express.

Seasonal Refreshments

Before your journey, pop by Swanage Station’s refreshment kiosk for warming drinks, festive bakes, and a treat or two to enjoy onboard.

Departure Details

All services depart from Swanage Station (Local Council Pay and Display parking at BH19 1PW). Please arrive at least 30 minutes before departure to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy the decorations, and take a few festive photos.

What's Included in Your Ticket

• A return journey on the beautifully decorated Yuletide Express (approx. 1 hour).
• A personal visit from Father Christmas at your seat.
• A festive gift, candy cane and satsuma for each child.
• Onboard fun and entertainment from our lively Elves.
• The chance to hang a wish on the magical Christmas Wishing Tree.

Dress for the Occasion

We love seeing our passengers wrapped up in Christmas jumpers, festive pyjamas, and woolly hats. Who knows – our Elves might just reward the best-dressed travellers with a little something extra…

CARER TICKETS

If you have accessibility needs outside of wheelchair accommodation, and require a carer ticket, we have limited dedicated tickets in our regular carriage for carers. To book, please contact [email protected] who will happily deal with your booking directly. Please note: to help us ensure that these tickets are made available to those with these genuine needs, we will require copy of one of the following before booking of tickets: Copy of DLA, PIP or Adult Disability Payment entitlement letter, Evidence of being registered severely sight impaired (blind), CredAbility Access Card (with +1 icon), Copy of Attendance Allowance letter, Recognised Assistance Dog ID card, A current and valid blue badge, Any other relevant documentation.

Step aboard the Yuletide Express and be transported to a Christmas just as you remember it – full of warmth, wonder, and togetherness.
A festive family tradition, waiting to be made.