The Llangollen and Corwen Railway in Denbighshire has announced that the start of their festive Santa season will begin this coming Saturday (29th November) with a special opening ceremony to be held at Llangollen station to mark the start of the festive running season.

Beginning at 9.30 am, the Llangollen Silver Band will play festive music as they march the length of platform one to the steam engine at the front of the first Santa Special train of the season. The band will continue to play until 9:45 am, when Father Christmas will appear with the rostered footplate crew, along with Hazel Birkenhead and Carolyn Thomas, MS.

“I have been a supporter of the Llangollen and Corwen Railway all my life. I brought my children here when they were young, and now I am bringing my grandchildren. It is a wonderful asset for our community and a magical place at Christmas. I am delighted to help launch this year’s Santa Specials.”

Carolyn Thomas MS

Together, both Carolyn and Hazel will cut a special ribbon marking the opening of the festive season at the Llangollen and Corwen Railway. There will also be an official photograph taken at the event, featuring all VIP guests, Father Christmas, and the Footplate Crew. Passengers booked on the first train will board before their departure, where the train will be waved off with the band playing.

The majority of Santa Special services on the Llangollen and Corwen Railway have already sold out, though some seats are still available in the run-up to Christmas. The railway offers incredible views through the Dee Valley, as volunteers and staff create a friendly festive atmosphere, and every child meets and receives a present from Santa Claus.

Trains over the festive season also include the ever-popular Siôn Corn and Mince Pie specials, which run between Christmas and New Year.

The Llangollen and Corwen Railway looks forward to meeting all families and friends and spreading festive cheer during the 2025 festive running season.

“The launch of the Santa Specials is one of the highlights of our year. It brings together our volunteers, our communities and families who return year after year to share in the magic. We are especially proud to have Hazel Birkenhead with us. Hazel is one of our outstanding volunteers and, despite being over 80, still cooks breakfast for our teams every weekend. She represents the heart of this railway. This event is largely run by our amazing volunteers, whose dedication makes everything possible. Tickets for this year’s Santa Specials are already almost sold out, which shows just how loved this experience has become. We can’t wait to welcome passengers and begin another unforgettable Christmas season.”

David Hennigan, Trust Manager of the Llangollen and Corwen Railway