- Train Rides
- All Ages
Santa by Steam at Bodmin Railway
Bodmin and Wenford Railway · Bodmin, Cornwall · 5th December to 24th December 2026
About this event
Santa by Steam runs from Bodmin General Station on nine dates in December 2026: Saturday 5, Sunday 6, Saturday 12, Sunday 13, Saturday 19, Sunday 20, Tuesday 22, Wednesday 23 and Thursday 24. Departures run from 10:00 or 11:30 through to 16:00, depending on the day, and every child gets to meet Santa during the journey on the railway's heritage steam train.
While you wait, brass bands fill the platform with carols and seasonal favourites, and Judy, the railway's much-loved Bagnall 0-4-0 saddle tank locomotive, makes guest appearances on Platform 2 through the festive season. Festive treats are on sale at the railway for the whole family.
For children who prefer a calmer trip, Quiet Trains run at 10:00 on Sunday 6 and Sunday 20 December, with reduced noise and a more relaxed, sensory friendly journey. At the other end of the day, the 16:00 departures on 5, 13 and 20 December are pyjama trains, where children come in their cosiest pyjamas for an evening ride.
Booking is in advance through the railway's own booking page. When checked, the 16:00 on 13 December was sold out and the 16:00 on 20 December had a single place left, so book the evening and pyjama trains early.
Quiet Trains for a calmer ride
The 10:00 departures on Sunday 6 and Sunday 20 December are Quiet Trains, with reduced noise and a more relaxed, sensory friendly journey to meet Santa. They suit children who find the busier trains overwhelming.
Pyjama trains at 16:00
On 5, 13 and 20 December the 16:00 departure is a pyjama train, with children invited in their cosiest pyjamas for an evening ride as the day draws to a close. The 13 December one has already sold out, so book early.
Brass bands and Judy on the platform
Brass bands play carols and seasonal favourites on the platform while you wait for your train, and Judy, the railway's Bagnall 0-4-0 saddle tank, makes guest appearances on Platform 2 through the festive season.
Plan your visit
Dates and times
5th December to 24th December 2026
Saturday 5, Saturday 12, Sunday 13, Tuesday 22 and Wednesday 23 December 2026: 11:30, 13:00, 14:30, 16:00
Sunday 6, Saturday 19 and Sunday 20 December 2026: 10:00, 11:30, 13:00, 14:30, 16:00
Thursday 24 December 2026: 10:00, 11:30, 13:00, 14:30
Quiet Trains: 10:00 on 6 and 20 December
Pyjama trains: 16:00 on 5, 13 and 20 DecemberAges
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.
