Santa Express to stop at Leicestershire beauty spot on festive trip

With Christmas approaching, people are now able to book their ticktes for the Great Central Railway's popular Santa Express. This year the steam locomotives will begin making the festive trip on Saturday, November 23.

And as the trains head south from Loughborough towards Leicester they will pause on the Swithland Viaduct for a while to let people take in the scenery. The trips will continue until Christmas Eve.

The organisers said: "Great Central Railway’s famous heritage steam locomotives will puff passengers along on a magical journey through the gorgeous vintage Loughborough Station before winding its way through the wintery Charnwood countryside to Leicester North before returning to Loughborough with a very special passenger on aboard - along with a few of his helpers of course!

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"This year, the Express is excited to include a special stop along the Swithland Viaduct to allow passengers to take in the gorgeous views over pristine scenery and active wildlife. Little ones are sure to be delighted by Great Central Railway’s specially curated Christmas Activity Pack, filled with games, puzzles, and colouring sheets. Santa will of course be making an appearance, and he knows how to spread magic, happiness and cheer."

The Great Central Railway confirmed that every child on board the Santa Express will receive a "special Christmas gift from the man himself". Each child will also receive a drink and treats onboard as well as a goody bag full of festive cheer to take home.

"Adults are far from forgotten and will be treated to mince pies and Irish cream liqueur and there’s a full at-seat bar service available to help you celebrate in style," organisers added.

The trains will also have private carriages available for bigger groups. Tickets, costing from £8, can be booked now by visiting the Great Central Railway website.