A special visitor will be swapping his usual mode of transport for a steam train at Avon Valley Railway, in the run up to the big day in December.
Father Christmas will be joining families on nostalgic trips along the restored line from Bitton in the run-up to Christmas.
The attraction’s popular Santa Steam Specials will begin on November 30th and run every weekend in December, as well as Monday, December 8th, Tuesday, December 23rd, and on Chrismas Eve.
Accompanied by his helpers, Father Christmas will make his way along the train, stopping to talk to young passengers and give them each a present.
Adults won’t be left out as everyone will receive an Anstees’ mince pie or festive biscuit.
The journey lasts around an hour and takes passengers on a six-mile round trip through the scenic Avon Valley inside old-fashioned carriages and pulled by a steam locomotive, recreating the heyday of rail travel.
Richard Shacklock, commercial manager at Avon Valley Railway, said: “A trip to Avon Valley Railway is filled with wonder and excitement for young visitors at any time of year, so where better to meet Father Christmas than onboard our Santa Steam Specials?
“With trips starting on November 30, families can get into the festive spirit early, or make Christmas Eve really special by joining Father Christmas for a journey before he heads off to deliver gifts ready for Christmas Day.
“It’s an experience for all ages, creating magical moments for our younger visitors while bringing a nostalgic feel to the festive season for adults, too.”
Train times range from 10.30am to 4.45pm depending on the day with prices ranging from £9 to £13. Children under one year are £5.
The heart of Avon Valley Railway is Bitton Station an original Midland Railway station, which like the locomotives, carriages and track, has been restored by a team of dedicated volunteers.
Without the volunteers, the locomotives wouldn’t operate or be restored, tickets wouldn’t be sold and the site wouldn’t be maintained – but thanks to them and those that visit, the railway is being restored for the delight of current and future generations.
For more information or to book your trip to Santa visit www.avonvalleyrailway.org or call 0117 932 5538.
