THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride — Spa Valley Railway

THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Spa Valley Railway boards at Tunbridge Wells West station, on the railway's West Station site in Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent. The event site says it is licensed by Rail Events International and operated and managed by PNP Events Ltd. The railway describes a theatrical recreation of the film for the whole family.

Golden tickets are handed out, and guests meet characters from the film including the Conductor, energetic dancing chefs, a mysterious ghost and Santa, and take part in a light show. Hot chocolate is served by chefs on board with a milk chocolate cookie, the story of The Polar Express is read along, and Santa gives each guest the first gift of Christmas, a silver sleigh bell. The operator says a steam engine is scheduled to pull the train, and that for operational reasons it may substitute another locomotive or, at short notice, run the show on a static train.

Adults and children pay the same ticket price. Carriages are from heritage stock and all differ, with seating in groups of four around a table or in pairs, so a family may share a table with another party. Under-twos can ride on a lap with a baby-on-lap ticket and receive a bell but no hot chocolate or cookie.

About one hour on board, and usually 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours in total including the gift shop (guests typically spend 15 to 30 minutes there). The time on your ticket is when the experience starts, not when the train departs. The operator encourages pyjamas and robes; because part of the event is outdoors it asks for a warm coat, a brolly and sturdy shoes, and no slippers.

Boards at West Station, Nevill Terrace, Royal Tunbridge Wells, Kent TN2 5QY. The operator asks guests to arrive 30 to 45 minutes before their start time, and says timings are strict: doors are locked at set cut-offs and cannot be reopened for latecomers. The railway has no on-site parking and there is none in the streets around the station, so guests arrange their own parking in the town's car parks; disabled guests can be dropped off at the railway. Pushchairs and car seats are not allowed on board; marshals look after them on the platform. Pets are not allowed (assistance animals welcome after contacting customer services). Tickets are sold online only and e-tickets are emailed 14 days before the visit. The operator does not offer cancellations, refunds or reschedules, and says the event runs in rain and snow.