- Train Rides
- All Ages
Santa's Elf Express at the Strathspey Railway
Strathspey Railway · Aviemore, The Highlands · 28th November to 24th December 2026
About this event
Strathspey Railway's Santa's Elf Express runs from Aviemore station on 28 and 29 November and 5, 6, 11, 12, 13 and 17 to 24 December 2026. Every service leaves from Aviemore and returns there, and boarding at other stations is not available. The return journey lasts about 1 hour 45 minutes, and departure times are in the booking system.
You travel in a festively decorated heritage carriage, with elves, singalongs and a visit from Santa, who gives every child aged 10 months and over a gift and a festive activity book. Services are steam hauled wherever possible, but a heritage diesel may be substituted, with no refund in that case.
Seats are sold as fixed price tables rather than per person: up to four passengers from £110.00 to £135.00, or up to two from £67.50 to £80.00, depending on the date. Children aged 3 and over need their own seat, while toddlers from 10 months to 2 years need a £5 ticket and can sit on a lap.
No food or drink is included, but there is a trolley service and an on board bar, and you can bring your own food. The carriages are single glazed and cold, so wrap up. An Adults Only Carriage, First Class Festive Steam Tea, private compartments and the Observation Carriage are sold separately.
Elves, singalongs and Santa
A festively decorated heritage carriage, elves and singalongs fill the 1 hour 45 minute return trip, and Santa gives every child aged 10 months and over a gift and a festive activity book.
Priced by the table
Tables for up to four start at £110.00 and tables for two at £67.50, whatever the ages, so a family of four pays one price. Toddlers from 10 months to 2 years on a lap add £5, and younger babies travel free.
Bring your own picnic
No food or drink comes with the ticket, but you can bring your own, and there is a trolley service and an on board bar. The carriages are single glazed and cold, so pack warm layers for the trip.
Plan your visit
Dates and times
28th November to 24th December 2026
28 and 29 November and 5, 6, 11, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 21, 22, 23 and 24 December 2026
Departs from and returns to Aviemore station only
Return journey about 1 hour 45 minutes
Departure times are shown in the booking systemAges
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.
