Hop on board the Great Central Railway Santa Express and have a magical journal on the steam train this festive period. Here is a perfect idea for a festive family activity this year.
The fun is for all and not just for kids. For the little ones, they can meet Mr & Mrs Claus and their helpers whilst on board the Santa Express. Every child gets a Christmas Activity Pack and grown ups can enjoy Irish Cream Liquer and a mince pie. You can all take that special shot with Santa too during the ride.

The Great Central Railway are serving up a festive afternoon tea , first class festive dining and have a thrilling Christmas murder mystery dinner too. They have a licensed bar on board serving cocktails, local beer and wine.
The Great Central Railway Route Highlights
The steam powered train departs from Loughborough Central Railway Station and travels to 1940’s Quorn & Woodhouse station, Swithland reservoir, 1912 gas lit Rothley station and Leicester North Station before turning back. It is a scenic route and perfect for taking in the Leicestershire countryside and takes around 3 hours for the full journey. (Over the Festive Period, times are shorter).
On route you can see the locomotive change ends (which is fascinating). It also gives you a chance to get off the heritage steam railway and stretch your legs.
We went on their First Class dining a while back and had a delicious meal and experience. The British weather was playing ball and the sunset across the Leicestershire countryside was beautiful. Watch the experience here.






Santa Express Route
The Santa Express lasts about 1hr 30 minutes. It will pass through Quorn, Rothley, Swithland Reservoir and Leicester North Station where it will stop for 25 minutes so you can visit the Vintage Tea room, take some photos in the photo booth and get photos of the locomotive with Santa.
I was invited to a Christmas preview where we met Mr & Mrs Claus and their helpers. We tucked into mulled wine, sandwiches, local cheeses, sausage rolls and lots more. It was a treat and we got a taste of what a memorable experience this is.








A journey on the Santa Express is a perfect gift and will get you in the festive spirit. Want to do something after Christmas? That is fine because they have Betwixmas packages and a lot more in the new year.
How much does the Santa Express cost?
The Great Central Railway have held their 2023 prices which is great. There are a few different packages you can choose with prices starting from £24. Tickets are going fast so get in quickly to get the best deals.
This year they have launched the Premium Private Compartment which costs from £240 . This is for 8 people and you get your own private cabin in addition to hot chocolate, customised Santa express mug, more time with Santa and chocolate novelties
What dates do the Christmas Services run
The Christmas service runs from the 23rd of November to the 24th of December.
Festive Murder Mystery runs on the 6th, 13th, and 20th December at 7pm.
What accessibility is there on the train
One coach is accessible and suitable for wheelchairs. Please contact the Railway for more details. Guide dogs are allowed on the train too.
For more information, and to get on board the Santa Express or gift someone a First Class Dining Experience on the only preserved double track mainline railway, visit their website or call the booking office on 01509 632323.
Loughborough Central Railway Station, Great Central Railway Road, Leicestershire, LE11 1RW
The Great Central Railway is Britain’s only preserved double track mainline railway and is preserved by dedicated volunteers.
Want more festive ideas in the Midlands? What about Christmas at Belvoir Castle?
Neha
AD: I was invited to the preview of the Santa Express. There was no obligation to post. All photos and opinions are my own.