- Train Rides
- All Ages
Christmas Night Train at Exbury Gardens
Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway · Southampton, Hampshire · 30th November to 4th December 2026
About this event
The Christmas Night Train runs on the Rhododendron Line, the steam railway inside Exbury Gardens near Southampton, on five evenings only: Monday 30 November to Friday 4 December 2026. Entry opens at 16:45 and trains leave at 17:15, 18:00, 18:45 and 19:30.
The gardens are not otherwise open on these evenings, so your ticket covers admission to the railway through the gardens as well as the ride. Father Christmas is there to give each departure a personal send-off before the train sets out on its journey of about 30 minutes through the gardens after dark.
The ride itself is the main event, and it is not a grotto visit. If your children want to sit down with Father Christmas and receive a gift, Exbury sells separate Meet Father Christmas in the Evening tickets, which are not included in the Night Train fare. Festive food and drink is on offer at Mr Eddy's restaurant each night and the Gift Shop is open for Christmas shopping, though the page does not say any food is included.
One fare of £21 covers everyone, or £19 for Friends of Exbury members, and children under 3 do not need a ticket. Children under 16 must be accompanied by an adult on the steam train, and the experience features some flashing lights.
Exbury Gardens after dark
The gardens are closed to everyone else on these evenings, so the Night Train is the way in. Admission to the railway through the gardens is included in the fare, and the ride lasts about 30 minutes on the Rhododendron Line.
A send-off from Father Christmas
Father Christmas gives every departure a personal send-off before the train leaves. Families who want a proper sit down with him and a gift can add a separate Meet Father Christmas in the Evening ticket on the same nights.
One simple fare, under 3s go free
Everyone pays £21, or £19 with Friends of Exbury membership, whatever their age, and children under 3 do not need a ticket at all. With four departures between 17:15 and 19:30, there is an early slot for younger children.
Plan your visit
Dates and times
30th November to 4th December 2026
Monday 30 November to Friday 4 December 2026
Entry from 16:45
Departures 17:15, 18:00, 18:45 and 19:30
The journey takes about 30 minutesAges
All Ages
Getting there
VIP Pass
Members save at selected Christmas days out
Frequently Asked Questions
Most asked questions relating to Christmas.
From Santa's grottos and magical light trails to winter farm parks, theme park celebrations and immersive festive experiences, the UK has plenty of Christmas days out for all ages. Our Christmas Events hub highlights the most popular and top-rated options to help you choose the perfect adventure.
