(Image: Weardale Railway)
Families are being urged to act quickly to secure discounted tickets for this year's Santa Express at Weardale Railway, with the early bird offer ending soon.
The popular North Pole adventure returns to Weardale Railway this Christmas, running from November 28 to December 24, and promises a bigger and better experience.
Early bird tickets are still available, offering a 10 per cent discount until the offer ends at midnight on August 31.
Stanhope Station bedecked in festive decorations
(Image: Weardale Railway)
Claire Gibbons, general manager at Weardale Railway, said: "Every year the Santa Express creates magical memories for thousands of families, and we're delighted to be welcoming everyone back this Christmas.
"We've already seen fantastic interest in tickets, so we'd encourage anyone thinking of coming to make the most of the early bird offer before it ends on 31 August.
"Whether it's your first visit or an annual family tradition, we're looking forward to making this Christmas our best yet."
The Christmas experience begins at Stanhope Station, which will be transformed with festive music, decorations, seasonal treats, and photo opportunities.
Santa greeting visitors aboard the Santa Express
(Image: Weardale Railway)
Visitors will then board a heritage train for a winter journey through Weardale.
On board, carriages are turned into cosy festive spaces with table seating for families and groups.
Elves will entertain passengers with music, laughter, and surprises throughout the journey before Santa himself makes a special appearance.
Each child will receive a gift.
This year, visitors can choose between two ticket options.
The Golden Ticket, starting at £33, includes a visit from Santa, a gift for every child, and shared table seating.
The VIP Ticket, from £43, offers extra space and comfort for those looking to make the experience even more memorable.
Weardale Railway is an 18-mile heritage line running between Bishop Auckland and Eastgate, with 16 miles of track currently operating between Bishop Auckland West and Stanhope.
It offers a range of visitor experiences, including driver days, heritage journeys, and educational visits.
The Auckland Project saved the railway from administration in 2020 and has since invested in essential repairs and infrastructure upgrades.
Today, the railway hosts a variety of events, from afternoon teas and gin and cheese trains to family days out and the Santa Express.
Weardale Railway forms part of The Auckland Project, a regeneration charity working to transform Bishop Auckland into a top visitor destination.
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Its attractions include Auckland Palace, the Spanish Gallery, the Mining Art Gallery, the Faith Museum, restored gardens, and the historic 150-acre Deer Park.
With limited availability on select dates, Santa Express tickets are expected to sell out quickly.
Tickets are available at santaexpress.co.uk.
For details on Weardale Railway’s full events calendar, visit weardale-railway.org.uk/events.