Santa Express — Waterford & Suir Valley Railway

The Waterford & Suir Valley Railway runs its Santa Express from Kilmeadan Station in County Waterford. The operator describes a journey on a real train beside the Waterford Greenway and by the River Suir to meet Mrs. Claus and friends in the Magic Wood, where the fairies have been making magic dust to help Santa find every house on Christmas night. Mrs. Claus has some for every child.

Back at Kilmeadan Station, families can take photographs at the festive props around the station, including Santa's lead reindeer Dasher. The operator also lists a meeting with the Mayfield Birds of Prey (not on Wednesdays) and hot chocolate with Mrs. Claus's home-baked treats at the Whistlestop Café.

There is no queuing for Santa: he calls each family when it is time to visit him in Santa's Railway Cottage. Every family has a private visit, the children chat with him and, as they are on the Nice List, each receives a good quality present. A printed photo memento of the visit can be bought on the day.

A train ride and visit with Mrs. Claus of about 30 minutes, then time at Kilmeadan Station for photographs, the Mayfield Birds of Prey (not on Wednesdays) or a hot chocolate and home-baked treats at the Whistlestop Café. Each family has a private visit with Santa, who gives each child a present. There is no queuing: Santa calls you when it is time.

Trains leave from and return to Kilmeadan Station, Kilmeadan, Co. Waterford (X91 DH93). The operator lists six departure times, from 10:15am to 2:15pm. The operator advises booking online in advance to secure the preferred time, or calling the ticket office on +353 (0)51 384058; tickets may also be available at the station on the day, subject to availability. Two wheelchair-accessible compartments are available: tell the operator your requirements when booking. A printed photo memento with Santa is sold on the day.