This Christmas, the Great Central Railway will host a variety of magical experiences that the whole family can enjoy.

The main attraction is the Santa Express, where families can enjoy festive train rides with Santa and his elves, but there is also indulgent festive dining, and the chance to purchase some perfect Christmas gifts.

On the Santa Express, travellers can look forward to a magical journey of singing, storytelling, and festive fun with Santa’s Elves and Mrs Claus, and meet Santa himself.

Along with the railway’s other steam trains running during the Christmas period, it will be transformed, with twinkling lights, glittering garlands, and seasonal cheer.

In addition to meeting Santa and his jolly helpers, children will receive a Christmas Activity Pack and a personal gift from Santa, while adults enjoy an Irish Cream liqueur and a mince pie.

At Leicester North Station, there will be the opportunity to take a photo with Santa in front of the locomotive and meet the mischievous elves.

The train will be steam-hauled from Loughborough to Leicester North Pole, and a heritage diesel will haul the train on the return journey to Loughborough.

As well as the Santa Express, visitors have the choice of three festive dining experiences:

• Festive Afternoon Tea includes sandwiches in seasonal flavours, freshly baked cakes, scones with jam and clotted cream, pots of English tea, along with a glass of mulled wine or prosecco.
• Christmas Day and Boxing Day services will allow visitors to forget cooking Christmas dinner, as the Great Central Railway’s chefs serve up a delicious multi-course festive meal on board a heritage train.
• To celebrate the New Year, the railway’s New Year’s Eve Celebration will ring in 2026 with fine dining and festive cheer served with elegance and style.

On weekends during the festive period, three and four-course festive menus will provide the perfect excuse to make the season truly special with family, friends, or colleagues.

Last year, the railway started planning its Christmas offerings in July, which would include the return of the Santa Express.