Make Magical Christmas Memories on the
Kent & East Sussex Railway
When it comes to magical childhood Christmas experiences, there is nothing quite like a steam train journey through the winter countryside, with the excitement of meeting Santa himself, all from the comfort of your seat in a heritage carriage.
Santa visits every family at their seat
Photo: Stepstone Imaging for K&ESR
For more than 50 years, the award-winning Kent & East Sussex Railway Santa Specials have been delighting generations of families and helping create treasured Christmas memories. Many of those who first enjoyed the experience as children now return with children and grandchildren of their own, making a visit to the Santa Specials a cherished family tradition.
Alongside a memorable steam train journey, every family receives a personal visit from Santa, who delivers individually named, age-appropriate gifts to children at their seats, assisted by his team of elves. Families also enjoy a souvenir group photograph, festive refreshments, entry to the Winter Wonderland marquee and unlimited rides on the traditional Gallopers at Tenterden Town Station.
Tickets include unlimited galloper rides
Photo: Robin Coombes for K&ESR
The star attraction, Santa himself, travels aboard the train, meeting every family and personally handing gifts to children as they make their festive journey through the countryside, helped by his trusty team of elves.
Santa with some of his trusty elves
Photo: Alison Miles for K&ESR
There are three special travel packages to choose from, each offering additional festive treats and exclusive experiences:
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Bronze Standard Class – Includes a complimentary refreshment pack with mince pies for adults, chocolate treats for children and soft drinks for all passengers. An on-board magician keeps younger travellers entertained before Santa arrives.
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Silver First Class – Includes a deluxe refreshment pack, chocolates for older children and a complimentary trolley service for adults, with a choice of alcoholic or non-alcoholic drink included. Passengers also meet Santa’s Head Elves, Jingle and Sparkle, and receive an Elf-ship diploma.
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Gold Premium Class – Offers the ultimate festive experience, with unlimited prosecco, beer or non-alcoholic beverages for adults, festive cakes and luxury mince pies, together with character chocolates and fruit drinks for children, all served at your seats.
For families and groups requiring a calmer atmosphere, a dedicated Quiet Service will once again operate on the first day of the season.
Christmas music is not played at the station, while all other features of the Santa Special experience remain unchanged.
Photo: Stepstone Imaging for K&ESR
The 2026 Santa Specials begin on Sunday 29th November and run every weekend until Sunday 20th December, with additional services on Tuesday 22nd December (recently added due to demand), Wednesday 23rd December and Christmas Eve, Thursday 24th December.
Booking is essential, as tickets are already selling fast, and can be made online at www.kesr.org.uk