THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride — Mid-Norfolk Railway

The Mid-Norfolk Railway runs THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride from Dereham Station in Norfolk. The event is run by The Mid Norfolk Railway (Trading) Ltd, and the railway says all profits go to the Mid-Norfolk Railway Preservation Trust, a registered charity. It says the ride has returned over a number of seasons.

The operator describes an immersive theatrical experience on a real moving train, set to the sounds of the motion picture soundtrack: golden tickets, hot chocolate and a cookie served to your table, the classic story told through narration and music, Santa boarding the train, and the first gift of Christmas, a silver sleigh bell for every guest. It describes carriages decorated with soft lights and festive details. The FAQ says the train is hauled by one of the railway's heritage diesel-electric locomotives, built in the 1950s and 60s, that guests stay on board throughout, travel to the "North Pole" and return to Dereham station.

Three classes are sold. Standard seats are around tables of four. Deluxe carriages also have tables of four, with a blue glow from their lighting and a souvenir mug for each passenger. Premium carriages have larger seats with extra legroom, tables of two or four, a mug for each passenger and car parking at Dereham Station. Booking in multiples of four guarantees your own table.

About one hour on board; guests wave goodbye about 1½ to 2 hours after they arrive, and the story begins about 20 minutes before the train departs. A cookie and hot chocolate are served to your table, with oat-milk and gluten-free alternatives available. The operator encourages pyjamas and a dressing gown, sturdy closed-toe shoes (no slippers) and weather-appropriate clothing, since boarding is outdoors. A quiet "support coach" is in the centre of the train for anyone who needs it.

Check-in is at Dereham Station, Station Road, Dereham, Norfolk NR19 1DF, at the arrival time shown on your booking. Premium ticket holders receive a station car park permit (one per five seats); Standard and Deluxe guests use Dereham's public car parks, some of which have maximum-stay limits. Limited Blue Badge parking is available at the station. Wheelchair users can stay in their wheelchair: there is one wheelchair space per train, in Premium, and the operator asks guests to contact it before booking. Golden tickets and seat details are collected at the check-in desk, and tickets are sold online only (not by phone or in person). Children under two travel free on an adult's lap. The operator offers no cancellations, refunds or reschedules, and says the train runs in all weather.