Christmas Specials — Lavender Line

The Lavender Line, a heritage railway run by the Lavender Line Preservation Society, runs its Christmas Specials from Isfield Station near Uckfield in East Sussex. The operator says every child meets Father Christmas on an extended train ride and receives an age-appropriate present, and can enjoy a squash or hot chocolate in the tearoom.

Adults receive a complimentary mince pie, apple pie or bakewell tart and a tea, filter coffee or hot chocolate, with gluten-free alternatives available. The train ride with the visit by Father Christmas lasts 40 minutes, and there is singing. Every ticket also includes a ride on Riley's Miniature Railway, subject to weather conditions.

The operator asks that all adults are accompanied by a child: it does not take adult-only groups. After booking, the railway emails to ask for the name, age and gender of each child so that the gift can be chosen to suit, and it asks to be told about any special educational needs.

An extended train ride of about 40 minutes with a visit from Father Christmas and singing, a present for each child, a squash or hot chocolate for children in the tearoom and a pie and a hot drink for adults, plus a ride on Riley's Miniature Railway when the weather allows.

Trains leave from Isfield Station, Isfield, near Uckfield, East Sussex TN22 5XB. Christmas tickets are booked online; after booking, the railway emails to collect each child's name, age and gender for the gift. All adults must be accompanied by a child. The operator will try to accommodate a change of date or time, for an administration fee, but cannot offer refunds. Babies under one travel free without a present, or with a present for a fee. The heritage coaches are not wheelchair accessible, having narrow doorways and steps to board; the operator provides an accessible toilet and a ramp into the tearoom. Gluten-free alternatives are available for adults' refreshments. Questions can be emailed to Christmas@lavender-line.co.uk.