Christmas is just around the corner: The Polar Express™ Train Ride Returns to South Devon Railway

With Christmas drawing closer, families are being urged to secure their seats for THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at the South Devon Railway. Following another successful event last year, the much-loved festive experience returns on selected dates from 27 November to 23 December 2026, with tickets on sale now.

This year PNP Events, South Devon Railway, Rail Events Inc. and Warner Bros. will again come together to bring this truly magical film to life in the most charming and authentic way at this popular heritage railway.

This timeless story has been captivating passengers at the South Devon Railway for the past five years and this year will be no exception.

This enchanting and theatrical experience brings Chris Van Allsburg's classic blockbuster film from 2004, THE POLAR EXPRESS™ to life on a magnificent steam train.  Just like in the film, guests of all ages are encouraged to wear their pyjamas.  Many families decide to embrace the festive spirit by wearing matching pyjamas, which adds to the magical atmosphere on board.

As snow falls on the platform, passengers wait for THE POLAR EXPRESS™ to arrive before climbing on board to find their lantern lit table before beginning the magical round-trip journey towards the North Pole.  During the journey, the talented performers bring characters from the film to life during a one-hour immersive experience based on the hit film. The lively cast delivers interactive fun throughout the ride as the conductor punches golden tickets, dancing chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies, and guests read along with the original book. 

Look out for the Hobo who makes surprise appearances during the journey before Santa and his cheerful elf assistant make their way through the carriages, presenting each guest with a silver sleigh bell – the cherished first gift of Christmas. As the story reminds us, only those who truly believe can hear its gentle ring!

With the sound of Christmas carols in the air, the train will return to South Devon Railway, with just enough time to visit the gift shop to consider purchasing a festive keepsake to remember your special adventure.

This much-loved family Christmas experience welcomes more than 1.5 million riders across 54 locations worldwide each year.

All passengers receive a souvenir golden ticket and sleigh bell. Ticket prices range from £35.95 to £52.95 depending on the chosen date and time.  A limited number of first class tickets are also available to book.

Christmas is fast approaching and popular dates are expected to sell out quickly. Book now to avoid missing this unforgettable festive journey at www.southdevonrailwaythepolarexpressride.com

PNP Events will once again support the Cairngorm Reindeer Herd, with 5p from each biodegradable carrier bag sold at the on-site shops going towards maintaining Britain's only free-ranging herd of reindeer in the Cairngorm mountains in Scotland.