All aboard for holiday magic – where Santa and steam power the cheer!

We’re offering you a Santa Special Heritage Steam Train Christmas Experience, saving you 50% off Epping Ongar Railway's prices.

All Aboard for a Magical Christmas Experience!

Climb aboard a vintage London double-decker and journey back in time for some good old-fashioned festive fun! The Santa Special Heritage Steam Train Experience with Epping Ongar Railway is the ultimate Christmas adventure for families and groups alike. Take the stress out of your festive planning – your ticket unlocks everything you need for a memorable day out!

What's Included

• Vintage Double-Decker Bus Transfer: Begin your adventure with a park-and-ride bus from Epping Underground or Ongar Village, whisking you to North Weald station in retro style.
• Festive Steam Train Journey: Board your own group compartment or table and enjoy a scenic return trip through Epping Forest on a beautifully restored steam heritage train.
• Meet Santa & Festive Friends: Children meet Santa (in person!) and receive a hand-picked present. Expect surprise visits from Christmas characters like Mr. Scrooge, Mrs. Christmas, the elves, and a delightfully mischievous magician.
• Live Brass Band & Food Stalls: Feel the Christmas spirit with live music and seasonal treats at North Weald station before your train departs.

Why Choose This Festive Day Out?

The Santa Special is designed with families in mind – choose a cosy table for 2 or 4, or a private compartment for up to 8 for the ultimate group gathering. This heart-warming journey lasts approximately 2.5 hours (including both rides), giving you plenty of time to soak up the atmosphere, enjoy the entertainment, and make ‘first Christmas’ memories with little ones. Every child aged 1 and above receives a quality gift; under-ones get a little something too.

Children will be enchanted by engaging Santa story-telling and magical appearances along the route. All adults and children (1+) count towards group size, so you know exactly how much room your crew gets when you book. Group bookings (multiple tables for 4) can sit together in the same carriage, side by side – just perfect for meeting up with friends or extended family.

• Accessible Fun: Light refreshments available at the station - ideal for a mid-adventure nibble! Toilet and nappy-changing facilities are on offer at key stations. While the vintage carriages aren’t wheelchair accessible, assistance dogs are most welcome.
• Handy Tips: Buggies/pushchairs must be folded at North Weald. No parking at stations, but ample public car parks in Ongar.

Location & Dates

Epping, Ongar, North Weald – Essex
Runs on select days from late November through to Christmas Eve (24 December). Dates fill fast!

Frequently Asked Questions

• Is this experience suitable for all ages?
  Yes! It's designed for families with children. Children aged 1 and above receive a present from Santa, and even infants under 1 get a small gift.
• How long does the experience last?
  The entire adventure – from vintage bus to steam train and back – lasts approximately 2.5 hours.
• Are there food and refreshments available?
  Yes, festive food stalls and light refreshments are available at North Weald station to keep everyone in high spirits throughout the day!

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