Santa Claus is coming to town, 13:40 Sunday 13th December 2026

Santa Claus is coming to town 13:40, Sunday 13th December 2026

This year the East Lancashire Railway will have been hosting almost 40 magical years of the Santa Specials. That means we have nearly 4 decades of experience making sure everything is set up just so, to ensure you have the best start to the season possible.

Find out why families have been coming back to us again and again as we celebrate this legacy in unforgettable style, with Christmas magic packed into every second from the moment you arrive to when you step off the train.

You’ll begin with a walk through Bury Station, which has been transformed into a winter wonderland. Here you’ll be welcomed by the first of our colourful characters and be directed to your seat on board our heritage steam train. A quick toot of the whistle and off you go!

As you meander through the Irwell Valley there will be even more fun, with carols with a traditional brass band, a mince pie and festive tipple and of course, a special visit with Santa himself.

Whether this is your first visit, or a treasured annual tradition, this year promises to be our most magical yet!

What’s Included Winter wonderland walkthrough at Bury Bolton Street Station featuring beautifully decorated festive scenes (please note, there will be some flashing lights). Interactions with special Christmas characters including old favourites like the elves, Mrs Claus and our very own Ice Princess. An approximately 80-minute steam train ride from Bury to Rawtenstall and back. A visit from Santa with extra time to talk and take photos. A Christmas gift for every child, selected by age band. High quality children’s activity books. Traditional brass band on board.

Prices – (TBA)

Note 1: Please state age and gender of child so they receive the correct present

Adult: Member £,  Member with no shares £,   Non-Member £

• Child 0-17: Member £,  Member with no shares £,  Non-Member £ 
• Adult with Child U3 on knee: Member £, Member with no shares £  Non-Member £

• PARK & RIDE from Heywood -

• Why not start your journey at Heywood and board the Santa Shuttle Diesel Railcar from Heywood (journey time approximately 15 minutes), to reach Bury Bolton Street Station, which is the starting point of the steam-hauled Santa Specials? Santa Shuttle tickets are sold on an open return basis meaning that you can return on any service from Bury to Heywood.

Parking is free, Heywood Shuttle tickets are priced at £ (Adult) and £ child 3-17 years) and are only available in advance. Shuttle times will be added later.