Steam into Christmas on the East Lancashire Railway’s famously festive Santa Specials 2025. Your family will make enchanted memories to share as they take a trip through the magical Irwell Valley alongside colourful characters and surprises.

And what Christmas treat would be complete without a visit from a host of happy elves and Santa Claus himself.

Begin the adventure at Bury Bolton Street Station where you will journey through a gorgeously decorated winter wonderland. Say hello to Mrs Claus and the talking Christmas Tree, and maybe even stop for a quick singalong with our carol singing choir of polar bears, before boarding your train.

Once you’re settled into your seat, a steam train will haul you to Rawtenstall and back on an approximately 80-minute round trip. Along the way the festive fun continues as you meet your favourite Christmas characters and get the chance to belt out a couple of festive classics with the brass band. Whilst travelling, Santa himself will visit your carriage with a gift for every little one, and there will be plenty of time to have a chat with him and take a Santa selfie or two.

Grown-ups can look forward to mince pies and a festive tipple or soft drink. For the children there will be a drink, chocolate and an activity pack.

• Winter wonderland walkthrough at Bury Bolton Street Station featuring beautifully decorated festive scenes, a choir of carol singing polar bears and a magical talking Christmas Tree.
• Interactions with special Christmas characters including old favourites like the elves, Mrs Claus and our very own Ice Princess.
• An approximately 80-minute steam train ride from Bury to Rawtenstall and back.
• A visit from Santa with extra time to talk and take photographs.
• A Christmas gift for every child, selected by age brand.
• High quality children’s activity books.
• Traditional brass band on board.

SEND Family Santa Special

The East Lancashire Railway is putting on a Santa Special train specially designed for children and young people with Special Educational Needs and Disabilities (SEND). On 22, 23 and 29 November, join Father Christmas, his happy helpers and other festive characters on a voyage through the Irwell Valley. Enjoy all the magic and wonder of the Santa Specials with a few tweaks here and there to make it more accessible.  Find out more here

Find all the best places to visit Santa in Cheshire.