As the nights draw in, and the temperature starts to drop, it’s a sure sign that Christmas is only just around the corner! Now’s the time to think about getting the festive season off to a memorable start, and there’s no better place to do that than the Seven Valley Railway, which has a range of special experiences, with something for everyone.
Starting from Saturday 25 November, the SVR’s hugely popular Santa Trains will be departing Kidderminster on a magical steam train journey to Arley. Each group has a private compartment or reserved table, and after arriving at their destination, passengers disembark to watch a fabulous Panto show, in which mischievous elves Jingle and Jangle join Santa on stage, for plenty of festive fun. Complimentary hot drinks and sweet treats for everyone are included, and each child receives a quality gift and a free ticket to come back to the SVR next year. Services run at weekends up to Christmas Eve, and on Friday 22 December.
Also, departing Bridgnorth from Saturday 2 December, the Enchanted Express is a captivating on-train interactive experience, based on the poem ‘Twas the Night before Christmas, narrated by the voice of Dame Julie Walters. On the journey, a host of costumed characters and Santa Claus himself will visit each group’s private compartment. Once again, hot drinks and sweet treats are included for all passengers, and there’s a gift and free return ticket for every child. Services run at weekends up to Christmas Eve.
For those who yearn for a touch of pre-Christmas luxury, there are premium Yuletide Evening Dining Experiences departing from Kidderminster on 16, 22 and 23 December. A meticulously crafted four-course menu, fine wines and attentive service at your table will ensure passengers are immersed in festive spirit. Tables of two or four are available.
“We’re really going the extra mile to make Christmas special,” said Lewis Maddox, the SVR’s visitor engagement manager. “The experience starts with the magical atmosphere at our beautifully decorated stations, then on board our superb heritage carriages, each group has a reserved compartment or table. Last year we received scores of 5-star reviews and we think our offering this year is even better. After all, Christmas at the SVR is all about making precious memories!”
CAPTION: The Erlestoke Manor engine. Photo by Alan Corfield.
