The Times
By Yvette Caster
Santa Claus is coming to town — but this year he’s giving the reindeer a rest and arriving by train. And you can join him: all across the UK between October and December there are special festive journeys planned, including magical hours gliding to the “north pole”, a chance to lose yourself in Christmas lights or to cosy up and sip hot chocolate on a heritage railway. These are the best Christmas train rides in the U.K.
Santa’s Polar Express, Slieve Donard Hotel
This is a train ride through hotel grounds, not a heritage train. Take Santa’s Polar Express to his workshop where you can explore a winter wonderland and read stories with Mrs Claus. Children can also write letters to Santa, meet the man himself and receive a photo and gift. The experience lasts an hour and a half, and festive dining can also be booked.