The Severn Valley Railway has announced its programme of Christmas special events.

The popular Santa Trains begin running on Saturday 25 November and operate every weekend until Christmas Eve, and also on Friday 22 December.

Trains will depart from Kidderminster and travel to Arley, hauled by a steam locomotive. Each group of passengers will have a private compartment or reserved table.

At Arley, passengers will disembark and watch a pantomime show, which is making its debut this year. The panto features mischievous elves Jingle and Jangle joining Santa on stage for plenty of festive fun.

Tickets include complimentary hot drinks and sweet treats for everyone, and children will each receive a quality gift and a free ticket to come back to the SVR next year.

From Saturday 2 December, the Enchanted Express will depart from Bridgnorth on every weekend day until Christmas Eve, offering an interactive experience based on the poem ‘Twas the Night before Christmas, narrated by Dame Julie Walters.

During the journey, costumed characters and Santa Claus will visit each group’s private compartment. Hot drinks and sweet treats are included for all passengers, and every child will receive a gift and a free return ticket.

On 16, 22 and 23 December, this luxury service will run from Kidderminster on 16, 22 and 23 December. It will include a four-course menu, fine wines and attentive service at tables, which are available for two or four people.

Lewis Maddox, the SVR’s visitor engagement manager, said: “We’re really going the extra mile to make Christmas special. The experience starts with the magical atmosphere at our beautifully decorated stations, then on board our superb heritage carriages, each group has a reserved compartment or table. Last year we received scores of 5-star reviews and we think our offering this year is even better. After all, Christmas at the SVR is all about making precious memories!”