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Santa Specials at Swindon & Cricklade Railway
Swindon
Heritage train ride to meet Santa at the North Pole
About
Embark on a magical journey with Santa Specials at the Swindon & Cricklade Railway! Children can meet Santa in his festive grotto, where he has a special gift for every child over two. The adventure begins at Blunsdon station, with opportunities to explore the decorated station, enjoy the gift shop, and warm up by a traditional coal fire before boarding a heritage carriage. The train travels to Hayes Knoll, affectionately known as the North Pole, for the enchanting encounter with Santa and his helpers.
Our Take
Family Friendly
Best For
Families with young children
Vibe
Festive and magical
Energy Level
Low
Budget
Mid-Range
Photo Friendly
High
Weather Sensitivity
Low
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.
Location
Event Details
Duration
45 minutes to 1 hour for the main experience
Ages
Children over 2 receive a gift; under 2 travel free.
Schedule
Departures every 30 minutes from 10:30 AM to 4:15 PM on select dates in November and December.
Organizer
Swindon & Cricklade Railway Co.
Practical Information
Pet Policy
Service animals welcome
Food & Drink
Café and buffet coach available on-site
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book your tickets well in advance, as these popular Santa Specials often sell out quickly.
- Arrive at Blunsdon Station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow ample time for station exploration and boarding.
- Dress warmly in layers, as train carriages can be cooler, and consider bringing a camera to capture memorable moments with Santa.
- Check the specific departure times when booking, as they are scheduled at 30-minute intervals throughout the day.
- While the main experience is 45-60 minutes, feel free to spend extra time enjoying the café or gift shop before or after your train journey.
Frequently Asked Questions
What ages are the gifts suitable for?
Gifts are selected to be age-appropriate for children over two years old.
Can very young children attend?
Yes, children under two years old can travel for free, and a present can be provided if required.
What is the duration of the entire experience?
The round trip to Santa's Grotto typically takes between 45 minutes and 1 hour, but you can extend your visit to enjoy the station facilities.
Are there refreshments available?
Yes, there is a buffet coach on the train and a Whistlestop Café at Blunsdon Station.
What kind of train will we be traveling on?
The train is usually hauled by a heritage GWR steam locomotive or a BR Class 73 Electro-Diesel locomotive.