The Santa Express
2026 dates not announced yet. Details are from 2025.
Embark on a truly magical Christmas journey aboard the Santa Express, departing from the beautifully decorated Stanhope Station. Led by Santa's elves, this festive train ride through the Durham Dales promises laughter, surprises, and unforgettable memories. Children will delight in a special visit from Santa himself, receiving gifts to mark the occasion. Settle into cozy, table-arranged carriages and enjoy the winter countryside scenery, festive entertainment, and a heartwarming holiday atmosphere.
All ages $$
See more other Christmas activities near Stanhope
Plan Your Visit
Food & Drink
The 'Platform One' café at Stanhope Station is open from 10am to 4pm on Wednesdays to Sundays.
Parking
Car parking is charged at £1 for parking behind Stanhope Station and should be purchased at the time of booking tickets. Blue badge parking must be arranged in advance.
Accessibility
Ramps are available for wheelchair access to the train at all stations. Disabled toilet facilities are available at Stanhope Station. Disabled parking spaces are available at Stanhope, Frosterley, and Wolsingham stations. It is recommended to contact the railway in advance regarding accessibility needs.
Location
Tips & Advice
- Arrive at Stanhope Station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for parking and reaching the platform.
- Consider booking VIP seats for a more spacious and relaxed experience, especially if traveling with young children or a larger group.
- Dress warmly and in festive attire; Christmas jumpers, hats, and scarves are encouraged for photos and comfort.
- Purchase your parking at Stanhope Station when booking your tickets to ensure a spot and avoid last-minute hassle.
- Children under 2 years old travel for free but must sit on an adult's lap; ensure you account for this when booking your family's tickets.
Special Events & Promotions
- 10% discount with code EARLYBIRD until August 31st.
- Under 2s go free when seated on an adult's lap.
- Group and school visit rates available upon request.
Links & Contact
Run by Weardale Railway Trust
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
How long is the train journey?
The journey between Stanhope and Bishop Auckland takes approximately two hours for a full line return trip. Shorter trips are available to Wolsingham (20 minutes) and Witton-le-Wear (40 minutes).
Are there toilet facilities available?
Toilets and baby changing facilities are available at Stanhope Station. There are no toilet facilities onboard the train or at other stations.
Can I bring my dog?
Yes, dogs are allowed on the train, but they are not permitted on the seats or station benches.
What are the ticket prices and seating options?
Tickets are available for 'Gold' seats starting from £33, which includes a visit from Santa and a gift for every child. 'VIP' seats, offering larger seats and more space, start from £43.
What happens if the weather causes a cancellation?
In case of extreme weather leading to cancellation, you will be contacted via email or phone prior to the event. Updates will also be posted on their social media platforms.
Browse Christmas in Consett
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.