Steaming Into Christmas
2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.
Experience the magic of the holidays with Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways' 'Steaming Into Christmas' events. Journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Snowdonia National Park on festive steam trains. Meet Santa Claus himself on the 'Santa Trains' or in his magical grotto, complete with gifts for children. Enjoy unique footplate rides and post-Christmas scenic tours, offering a charming way to celebrate the season.
All ages $$
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Food & Drink
Mulled wine and mince pies available on Welsh Highland Santa Trains. Food and drink vendors, cafes, and bars are available at various stations including Spooner's Café & Bar, Tearooms at Tan-y-Bwlch Station, and Caffi De Winton at Caernarfon Station.
Parking
Free parking for railway passengers is available at Llyn Bach car park near Porthmadog Harbour Station. At Caernarfon Station, free parking is available on the road with a blue badge or in a Gwynedd Council car park.
Accessibility
Visitors travelling in a wheelchair or with restricted mobility should call the Booking Office to book tickets to ensure ease of accessibility and sufficient seating space. Disabled passengers and their carers receive a 10% discount.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Book tickets in advance, especially for Santa Trains and the Christmas Grotto, as they are popular and sell out quickly.
- Dress in layers for your train journey, as the weather in Snowdonia can be unpredictable, and it can get chilly on the train.
- Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in and to soak in the festive atmosphere.
- Consider visiting earlier in the hourly slot for the Porthmadog Christmas Grotto to ensure ample time to meet Santa.
- While dogs are welcome on most trains, they are not permitted in 1st/Gold Class carriages (except assistance dogs), so plan accordingly.
Special Events & Promotions
- Gold Class tickets include mulled wine, mince pie, and Christmas cracker for adults.
- Children and babies receive a Christmas present from Santa, carton of drink, biscuit, and Christmas cracker.
- Footplate rides are free (donations welcome).
- One Way tickets are available for the 'Christmas Mountain Spirit' service (must be booked via phone).
Links & Contact
Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide, not the organizer of this event. For tickets, entries, vendor spots or questions, contact the organizer directly through their contact page.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included with the Santa Train tickets?
Adults receive mulled wine, a mince pie, and a Christmas cracker. Children and babies receive a Christmas present from Santa, a carton of drink, a biscuit, and a Christmas cracker.
Can I bring my own food and drink on the train?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food for the journey. Catering options are also available at various stations.
Are there toilet facilities on board the trains?
Most services (Mountain Spirit, Quarryman, Gelert Explorer, Aberglaslyn, Snowdonia Star, Harbourmaster) have small on-board toilet facilities. The 'Woodland Wanderer' service does not have on-board toilets, but facilities are available at Tan-y-Bwlch Station.
Can I return on a later train if I have a return ticket?
Return tickets are for a specific service only. To return on a later train, you must book two separate single journey tickets, subject to timetable and availability.
What is the difference between the 'Santa Trains' and the 'Whistling Reindeer'/'Christmas Mountain Spirit' services?
The 'Santa Trains' (Welsh Highland Railway) feature Santa and his elves with gifts. The 'Whistling Reindeer' and 'Christmas Mountain Spirit' services are scenic post-Christmas journeys and do not include Santa.
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Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly. Christmas Events Near Me is an independent guide and isn't affiliated with the events we list.