Some may think it’s crazy, but honestly… we’re looking forward to Christmas already. It’s August, and we can already smell the mince pies, and clearly the East Lancashire Railway are on the same wavelength, as you can already book to experience the extremely popular Santa Specials on the ELR!
Steam into Christmas on the East Lancashire Railway’s famously festive Santa Specials, where families can make enchanted memories to share with 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 the carol singing choir of polar bears, before boarding your train.
Once you’re settled into your seat, a traditional 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, and for the children there will be a drink, chocolate and an activity pack.
What’s included in the tickets for the ELR Santa Specials?
- 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.
How much are tickets for the ELR Santa Specials?
Sat 23/Sun 24 November
- Adult − £23.00
- Child − £22.50
- Adult & under 3 on knee − £37.00
Sat 30 November/Sun 1 December
- Adult − £31.00
- Child − £30.50
- Adult & under 3 on knee − £48.00
Sat 7/Sun 8 December
- Adult − £33.00
- Child − £32.50
- Adult & under 3 on knee − £48.50
Sat 14/Sun 15 December
- Adult − £36.00
- Child − £35.50
- Adult & under 3 on knee − £52.00
Fri 20 December
- Adult − £36.00
- Child − £35.50
- Adult & under 3 on knee − £52.00
Sat 21/Sun 22 December
- Adult − £37.50
- Child − £37.00
- Adult & under 3 on knee − £53.00
Mon 23 December
- Adult − £39.00
- Child − £38.50
- Adult & under 3 on knee − £54.50
Tue 24 December (Christmas Eve)
- Adult − £40.50
- Child − £40.00
- Adult & under 3 on knee − £57.50
It may feel like a long time away, but Christmas is chugging along quicker than you might think, so get those tickets booked!
📍 Santa Specials go from Bury Bolton Street Station, BL9 0EY.