A festive steam train journey, a visit from Father Christmas and a Winter Wonderland await families at the Kent & East Sussex Railway this November and December.
The Kent & East Sussex Railway is preparing to welcome families aboard its Santa Special Steam Trains for 2026, offering a seasonal experience filled with festive entertainment, traditional railway atmosphere and Christmas surprises.
The heritage railway, which has been welcoming families to meet Santa aboard its trains since 1974, will once again transform its carriages and Tenterden Town Station into a festive attraction.
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This year’s Santa Specials will operate on selected dates between November 29 and December 24, with a choice of experiences designed for different group sizes and budgets.
Kent & East Sussex Railway
Meet Santa aboard a steam train
At the heart of the experience is a 75-minute return steam train journey in festively decorated carriages.
Santa will visit children at their allocated seats, delivering an age-appropriate gift addressed to each child by name.
Every Santa Special experience also includes a visit to the station’s Winter Wonderland, unlimited rides on the vintage gallopers at Tenterden, a complimentary family photograph and a mulled wine or hot drink for adults.
Babies under 18 months can travel free of charge and will also receive a present.
Kent & East Sussex Railway
Three festive experiences
Families can choose between Bronze, Silver and Gold packages.
The Bronze experience offers standard-class table seating, with festive refreshments and a magician providing entertainment aboard the train.
For those seeking something extra, the Silver package includes an encounter with Santa’s Head Elves, Jingle and Sparkle, along with first-class seating options, including private family compartments.
The Gold package provides a premium experience, with additional refreshments served at passengers’ seats during the steam-hauled journey.
All three packages include the central Santa Special experience.
Kent & East Sussex Railway
Santa Special dates for 2026
The railway has announced the following operating dates:
- Sunday, November 29
- Saturday and Sunday, December 5–6
- Saturday and Sunday, December 12–13
- Saturday and Sunday, December 19–20
- Tuesday to Thursday, December 22–24
A designated Quiet Train will also operate at 11.15am on Sunday, November 29, offering a less intense festive experience without Christmas music, while retaining the usual inclusive features.
Kent & East Sussex Railway
Booking your Christmas adventure
Tickets are sold according to the experience, seating arrangement, group size and travel date.
Bronze standard-class tables start at £100 for two people, while first-class and premium experiences are available at higher prices.
Visitors are encouraged to book ahead, as popular departures and accommodation types can sell out. Online bookings close seven days before travel.
Limited free parking is available at Tenterden Town Station, with alternative pay-and-display facilities nearby.
For full details, prices, availability and online booking, visit:
Whether it’s a child’s first meeting with Father Christmas or a family tradition, the Kent & East Sussex Railway’s Santa Specials offer the chance to combine the magic of Christmas with the nostalgic atmosphere of steam travel.
