For the third year running, this December Steam Dreams Rail Co. is once again running its popular “Santa Steam Express” for a magical journey from London Victoria station around the capital hauled by the ex-London and North Eastern Railway B1 Class No. 61306 Mayflower.

The Santa Steam Express will depart at regular intervals throughout the day on the 15th, 18th and 21st December. As they board the train, families will receive a warm welcome from Santa and his helpers as they jingle their way through festively decorated vintage carriages. With departures at 9:30, 11:45, 15:30 and 17:45 each day, there will be a journey to remember for early-risers and afternoon travellers alike.

Adults will be welcomed with a cup of warm mulled wine, tea, or coffee and a festive mince pie, and children will receive a Christmas-themed activity sheet and a snack-box with a carton of juice and seasonal treats, whilst they wait to meet Santa and his merry band of Elves on their journey through the train delivering their Christmas gifts.

Guests can choose from three classes of travel: First Class, Premium Standard, or Standard Class. A new feature this year are private, First-Class compartments, which have been created in vintage carriages with period details, beautifully restored wood panelling, and luxurious, comfortable armchair-style seating arranged around smartly dressed tables. These are ideal for larger families and groups and are available at £550 per compartment.

A range of festively decorated, classic carriages with varied jewel-toned interiors will be available for Premium Standard and Standard Class guests. Premium Standard tickets cost £75 per person with the seats arranged around spacious tables of four and two, while Standard Class tickets cost £65 per person with seating arranged around tables of four.

These tours are always popular, and tickets are limited, so to make sure of life-long memories full of festive cheer, they should be booked as soon as possible, and can be purchased here