Santa Special

It's beginning to look a lot like Christmas!

Treat the family to an enchanting voyage through the magical Irwell Valley, kick start your Christmas on one of our famous Santa Specials! There’s more family friendly fun, colourful characters and seasonal surprises than you can fit under a Christmas tree.

Immerse yourself into the festive atmosphere as you take a steam train trip with a host of happy elves and of course, Father Christmas!

Upon arrival you will make your way through the beautifully decorated winter wonderland at Bury Station, meet Mrs Claus and keep an eye open for the singing polar bears and the talking magic tree! You will then board your steam train for a journey up to Rawtenstall Station and back again. During the approximately 80-minute trip you will get a chance to meet your favourite Christmas characters, and have a good old sing along with the band.

While you travel, Santa himself will visit your carriage with a gift for every little one (selected by age band), there will be plenty of time to have a chat with him and take a Santa selfie or two. There will also be mince pies and a festive tipple or soft drink for every grown up in the party and an additional fruit shoot, chocolates and activity pack for the children.

What’s New for 2022!

Upgraded Winter Wonderland walkthrough at Bury Station featuring photogenic scenes, singing polar bears and a magical talking tree.

Interactions with special Christmas Characters including old favourites like the Elves and new classics like Mrs Clause and our very own Ice Princess.

Enhanced visit from Santa with extra time to talk and take photographs.

High quality children’s activity books for the little ones.

Traditional Brass Band back on board.

Heywood Shuttle

Start your journey at Heywood, board the Santa Shuttle Diesel Railcar from Heywood to reach Bury Bolton Street Station, the starting point of the steam-hauled Santa Specials. To book your Santa Shuttle ticket, select your departure from Heywood to Bury. Santa Shuttle tickets are sold on an open return basis meaning that you can return on any service from Bury to Heywood.

WHAT CUSTOMERS HAD TO SAY...

"A really lovely day out. Our 5 year old loves trains and we have visited other days out on the railway but I have to say this one was brilliant. The staff on board are very good and friendly, we all really enjoyed our day and our gifts." - 07Cinta, Tripadvisor

"Came here with my youngest daughter, thoroughly enjoyed it. The staff were exceptional and were right in the groove and the steam train added to the nostalgia. Love it, everyone should try this. highly recommended!" - KarlB, Tripadvisor

"We took our 5 year old granddaughter for the Santa Special. From the minute we stepped into the station the level of enthusiasm from the staff was totally infectious. We handn't a clue what to expect but we loved every single second!" - Donna-Marie, Tripadvisor

"Absoloutely amazing first experience of the East Lancashire Railway, the Santa Special was such a wondeful experience. I went with my husband, in-laws and 20 month old son and he loved every minute. Such a magical time for the whole family!" - Heidi W, Tripadvisor