- Train Rides
- All Ages
Elf Express at Stephenson Steam Railway
Stephenson Railway Museum · North Shields, Tyne and Wear · 5th December to 23rd December 2026
About this event
Elf Express runs at Stephenson Steam Railway on Middle Engine Lane in North Shields on 5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 22 and 23 December 2026. It is run by North East Museums on behalf of North Tyneside Council, and sessions start at 09:45, 11:15, 12:45, 14:15 and 15:45.
The time on your ticket is the start of a 15 minute interactive performance in the museum, not the train departure, and guests wait outside until their start time. Santa and his elves lead the show, with the Chief Elf in charge.
After the show everyone boards a festive themed heritage train with Christmas tunes playing, and the Chief Elf and Santa join the journey. There are photo opportunities, a hot drink and a seasonal sweet treat, and every child aged 0 to 12 receives a gift from Santa. Elves give adults a sticker to write each child's name on.
Seats face each other or sit back to back, and the museum asks you to check the seat position as well as the date and time when booking, because tickets cannot be exchanged or refunded. Parts of the event are outdoors, so wrap up. Buggies can be left in the museum during the train ride, and the locomotive may vary.
A live show before the train
Each visit starts with a 15 minute interactive performance in the museum, led by Santa and his elves. Your booked time is when the show starts, not the train, so arrive early and wait outside until your start time.
Santa rides with you
On the festive heritage train, Christmas tunes play and the Chief Elf and Santa join the journey. Every child aged 0 to 12 gets a gift from Santa, and a hot drink and seasonal sweet treat are included.
Free parking and buggy storage
The museum has a free on site car park with 74 spaces plus overflow, and buggies can be left inside the museum while you ride. Tell staff when you arrive so they know where it is.
Plan your visit
Dates and times
5th December to 23rd December 2026
5, 6, 12, 13, 19, 20, 22 and 23 December 2026
Sessions start 09:45, 11:15, 12:45, 14:15 and 15:45
Your time is the start of the 15 minute show, and the train ride followsAges
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.
