The Polar Express at Churnet Valley Railway This Christmas!

The Polar Express Churnet Valley, Staffordshire (

Churnet Valley Railway is celebrating the arrival of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. Tickets for Christmas 2021 will be on sale from the 1st June 2021 starting from £24.95.  

Now, it might not be exactly the same, but to get a taste of what it might be like, have a look at our review of The Polar Express on the Wensleydale Railway.

THE POLAR EXPRESS film is based on Chris Van Allsburg’s classic Christmas picture book, which tells the story of a boy who takes a magical Christmas Eve train ride to the North Pole to receive a special gift from Santa. First published by the Houghton Mifflin Company in 1985, The Polar Express became an instant family favourite and has sold more than 12 million copies worldwide. In 1986 it won the prestigious Caldecott Medal for Illustration.    

Staffordshire’s much-loved heritage railway is tipped to be one of the best places for believers to experience a magical Christmas this year. The immersive family-oriented experience hosted over 1.4 million riders at 54 locations in the UK, US, and Canada in 2019. Popular dates and times for the 2021 event in Staffordshire are expected to fill quickly. Early registrations are advised, giving access to the best ticket prices 48 hours prior to general release. To register please visit www.churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk/polar-express-train-ride   

The Polar Express Churnet Valley, Staffordshire (

Do you believe?   

The adventure comes to life when the train departs for a round-trip journey to the North Pole. Led by a cast of talented actors and set to the film soundtrack, passengers will relive the magic of the classic story. Children big and small are whisked away on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ for a one-hour trip to meet Santa.  

Once onboard, the conductor will work his way through the coach and punch golden tickets before hot chocolate and a delicious cookie are served by dancing chefs. The North Pole bound passengers then read along with the classic children’s book, The Polar Express, by Chris Van Allsburg. Santa and his helpers board the train to greet passengers and each guest is given the first gift of Christmas. During the trip, characters in each carriage lead fantastic onboard entertainment – just like in the Oscars-nominated award-winning film.   

The Polar Express Churnet Valley, Staffordshire (

Each guest will take home a keepsake sleigh bell and souvenir golden ticket in addition to the wonderful memories made on this magical trip. Just like the kids in the book, families are encouraged to wear their pyjamas for the ride. 

Customers with deferred bookings from the Churnet Valley Railway Santa & Steam Service 2020 will be automatically upgraded to THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride 

Exact dates, times, and fares will be available from the 1st June by visiting churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk/polar-express-train-ride

The Polar Express Churnet Valley, Staffordshire (

THE POLAR EXPRESS and all related characters and elements © & ™ Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. (s21)
Based on THE POLAR EXPRESS book and characters © & ™ 1985 by Chris Van Allsburg. Used by permission of Houghton Mifflin Company. All rights reserved.

Recommended Articles