Santa Specials 2026

Celebrate Christmas with a magical Santa Special at Midland Railway – Butterley, a festive family experience centred around a heritage train journey.

Your visit begins at Butterley Station, where you’ll board a beautifully decorated heritage train for a round-trip journey filled with Christmas cheer. During the journey, Santa himself and his elves travel through the carriages, stopping to meet every child at their seat. Each child receives a special gift, along with a colouring book and pencils, while festive cookies are delivered to all passengers.

After the train ride, the celebrations continue in a heated and decorated marquee, home to the much-loved Pinxton Puppet Show and an enchanting animatronics tableau, adding even more festive magic to the experience.

Santa Specials are designed as a relaxed, joyful Christmas outing for families, combining heritage rail travel with seasonal entertainment and plenty of festive atmosphere.

Hot and soft drinks are available at Butterley Station before boarding, with additional refreshments available from the on-train buffet car. Due to the nature of the event, the Swanwick Junction museum complex is not open during Santa Specials.

As the trains used for Santa Specials date from the 1950s, accessibility varies. Visitors with reduced mobility are encouraged to contact the railway in advance to discuss individual requirements. Assistance dogs are welcome; other dogs are unable to travel on Santa Special services.

Santa Specials run throughout December - please check the website for dates and times:

https://www.midlandrailway-butterley.co.uk/calendar/