Train Rides
Santa Special
Santa Special at Rudyard Lake Railway is a festive train experience in Staffordshire, where children meet Father Christmas aboard specially-lit carriages. The journey begins at Rudyard station and winds through the lakeside landscape before Father Christmas arrives by boat on the reservoir. Families board a steam train back to The Dam station, cross the 80-metre dam walk, and visit Father Christmas in his grotto. Children receive a soft drink or hot snack and a gift. Adults enjoy mulled wine or sherry with mince pie. The full experience lasts around 60 to 90 minutes. Arrive early to check in before your departure time, as the train cannot be held for late arrivals.
Presented by Rudyard Lake Railway
Age guidance and accessibility provisions vary by event and venue. Always check the organiser's website before booking.
Santa Special at Rudyard Lake Railway is a festive train experience in Staffordshire, where children meet Father Christmas aboard specially-lit carriages. The journey begins at Rudyard station and winds through the lakeside landscape before Father Christmas arrives by boat on the reservoir. Families board a steam train back to The Dam station, cross the 80-metre dam walk, and visit Father Christmas in his grotto. Children receive a soft drink or hot snack and a gift. Adults enjoy mulled wine or sherry with mince pie. The full experience lasts around 60 to 90 minutes. Arrive early to check in before your departure time, as the train cannot be held for late arrivals.
Presented by Rudyard Lake Railway
Age guidance and accessibility provisions vary by event and venue. Always check the organiser's website before booking.
12 Dec – 20 Dec 2026 (select dates)
Leek, Staffordshire
RLR, Rudyard Lake Railway, ST13 8XBFrequently asked questions
- Do I need to book Santa Special in advance?
- Yes, Santa Special requires advance booking. Tickets can be booked via the official event website.
- Is this event free?
- Santa Special is a ticketed event. Visit the event website for current pricing.
- When does Santa Special take place?
- 12th December 2026 to 20th December 2026, on select dates.
- Where is Santa Special held?
- Rudyard Lake Railway, Leek, Staffordshire.
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Before booking, confirm the specific dates this event runs on directly with the organiser - some events don't run on every date within the advertised range. We'd also recommend checking both the event's and the accommodation's cancellation policies before committing, in case plans change.