The Ghost Train — Bluebell Railway

The Bluebell Railway in East Sussex stages The Ghost Train at Sheffield Park Station in the days around Halloween. The operator describes it as the first of its kind in the UK on a steam heritage railway, and says its first year sold out.

The evening begins on the platform at Sheffield Park, where food is served in takeaway boxes before an immersive performance on Platform One that builds to the summoning of the Ghost Train. Passengers board at Platform Two and travel to Horsted Keynes, with the first encounters with the "Ghosts of the Bluebell Railway" on board. At Horsted Keynes they get off to roam an atmospheric station filled with theatrical performances that build to a dramatic finale, before the train returns to Sheffield Park.

The operator is clear about the tone: it is not a jump-scare attraction, but it is spooky and can be frightening in places. It is designed for families with older children and adults, and uses loud noises, explosions, flashing lights and immersive staging effects. Seating is in open compartments (one allocated seat per ticket) or in closed First or Third Class compartments for a party's exclusive use.

An evening of immersive theatre around Sheffield Park and Horsted Keynes stations, with a steam-heritage train journey between them. Much of the event takes place outdoors on the platforms and involves steps, a subway and walking among crowds, so the operator advises warm clothes and sensible shoes. Children should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.

Starts and ends at Sheffield Park Station, East Sussex TN22 3QL; the operator says guests must start there. The station opens in the afternoon so guests can eat before the performance, and the operator asks guests to arrive in good time because trains depart on time and missed departures are not refunded. Free parking is on site, with disabled parking in the top car park. Bring a printed ticket or a clear screenshot, because mobile signal and Wi-Fi may be limited. Boarding involves crossing the line by the bridge steps; staff can help passengers cross at track level. Only guide dogs are permitted. No prams may be brought on site and the event is not suitable for babies in arms. Costumes are welcome, but masks, hoods and imitation weapons are not allowed. Wheelchairs can be accommodated, with some limits on what can be experienced.