Christmas at Bure Valley Railway

This December, we’re bringing festive magic to the rails with something for everyone — families can enjoy the Festive Express, a joyful experience complete with a steam train ride, Santa’s grotto and personalised gifts for the children, while those looking for a more atmospheric evening can step aboard the Noël Night Train, with twinkling lights, festive music, seasonal refreshments and time to shop for gifts; and to finish the season, our much-loved Mince Pie Special offers a relaxing winter journey with a warm mince pie from the Whistlestop Café.

The Festive Express - Magical Steam Train Fun for Families

Hop on board one of our Festive Express steam trains this December for a truly magical family adventure from Aylsham Station.

Arrive early to collect your boarding pass and enjoy some festive treats before settling into your own cosy heated private compartment. With the station twinkling in Christmas decorations, the excitement of the Festive Express starts the moment you arrive.

Then it’s time for a 30-minute steam train ride to Brampton. Watch the engine chuff past your window as it turns around for the return journey. And that’s when the real magic begins.

Back at Aylsham, Santa will be waiting on his sleigh to welcome children into his grotto. Every child will meet Santa and his elves - and receive a personalised present to take home.

It’s a festive day out designed to make memories for the whole family. Book for Festive Express.

The Noël Night Train - A Magical Evening Journey by Steam

Kick off the festive season with an evening of Christmas spirit aboard the Noël Night Train. With twinkling lights, festive music, and seasonal refreshments, this atmospheric experience is perfect for those looking for something a little more grown-up or a special night out with family and friends.

Arrive at Aylsham Station from 18:30 and enjoy the sight of the station lit up and decorated for Christmas. Aylsham Brass Band will be there, playing festive favourites to set the mood, while you can browse the gift shop and take advantage of a 10% discount on purchases (excludes model railway items).

Collect your festive refreshments before boarding your own heated private compartment for a 60-minute steam journey through the Norfolk night sky.

The train departs at 19:30 and returns at 20:30, giving you another chance to shop for Christmas presents and stocking fillers before heading home.

Please note: Santa won’t be on board, as he’ll be busy preparing for our Festive Express trains for the little ones! Book for Noël Night Train.

The Mince Pie Special

Round off the festive season with the much-loved Mince Pie Special.

Travel by steam through the wintry Norfolk countryside and enjoy the cosy charm of this seasonal tradition. On your return to Aylsham Station, every passenger is treated to a free warm mince pie from the Whistlestop Café — the perfect way to end a Christmas journey. Book for Mince Pie Special.

How to Book for Festive Fun

Our Christmas trains are always extremely popular and tickets sell fast, so we recommend booking early to avoid disappointment. Simply visit the Bure Valley Railway website, choose from the Festive Express, Noël Night Train or Mince Pie Special, select your preferred date and time, and secure your own heated private compartment for your party. It’s quick and easy — and ensures your place on one of our magical Christmas journeys.

Don’t miss the chance to make Christmas memories on the rails this year!