The Elf Express
A festive journey like no other….
The 2026 Elf Express sees Santa with some brand new helpers on his very special train – and you’re invited to join them!
Departing from Bridgnorth on selected dates from 28 November to Christmas Eve, you’ll step into a magical Christmas adventure filled with laughter, storytelling and festive mischief.
Meet Santa and friends
From the moment you climb on board and take a seat in your very own compartment, the story unfolds around you. You’ll get to meet Santa himself, along with some of his merry team. Join in with their Christmas capers and discover plenty of surprises along the way.
Gingersnap the Gingerbread Man and Chef Cinnamon Crumble
Straight from the North Pole kitchen comes Gingersnap, a cheeky little gingerbread man with one very big worry – being mistaken for a Christmas snack! Luckily, Chef Cinnamon Crumble is usually close by to keep him out of trouble… usually.
Joe Robin and Poppy the Post Elf
Christmas wishes are very important business! Joe Robin is Santa’s special post robin, working alongside Poppy the Post Elf to make sure Christmas wishes find their way safely to the Big Man himself.
Chris-Mouse and Trixie the Trickster Elf
Chris-Mouse may be one of the North Pole’s tiniest helpers, but he has some very important responsibilities – including crumb collection and, of course, cheese tasting in the North Pole Tea Room! Alongside him is Trixie the Trickster Elf, who is always ready for a little festive mischief.
Mrs Claus and Cracker the Elf
Mrs Claus knows everything there is to know about Christmas – including exactly who is responsible for those terrible jokes inside your Christmas crackers! Meet Cracker the Elf, the North Pole’s official Christmas cracker joke writer. His jokes might make you laugh. They might make you groan. Either way, Cracker thinks they’re hilarious!
To make the journey even more magical, Santa himself will stop by to meet your family and deliver a special gift that will bring smiles to every child’s face.
A Magical, Immersive Christmas Adventure
Developed in partnership with Wise Owl Theatre Company, The Elf Express brings Christmas to life through live performance, interactive storytelling and puppetry.
Plan your visit
The Elf Express departs from Bridgnorth Station (WV16 4AX) at 10.00am, 12.15pm, 2.30pm and 4.45pm, running 28 November – 24 December. When making a booking please do check the important information and our frequently asked questions. We’re looking forward to magical journeys and creating family memories together this festive season.
Important Information:
- The Elf Express departs from Bridgnorth Station, WV16 4AX.
- When booking, please ensure you include the names and ages of ALL children travelling so they receive a gift.
- Seating on the train is available in private compartments of six or private compartments of four.
- You can add an additional passenger to compartment bookings if your group is made up of five or seven passengers.
- If your booking contains a wheelchair, a specific wheelchair space must be reserved on the train.
- Children under two do not count towards the number of people in your group; they travel free of charge and will receive a present.
- Dogs are not permitted on The Elf Express (assistance dogs welcome).
- Please arrive up to 45 minutes before your selected departure time. Bridgnorth Station has an ANPR-controlled car park for £4 per day.
- Please leave buggies at home. If you have to bring a buggy, it must be folded down and stored on the train.
- If your child has any additional needs, please contact us for advice: [email protected].
- Whilst every effort will be made to ensure trains are steam-hauled, steam locomotives are subject to availability and may be replaced by diesel locomotives to avoid the cancellation of a service (full terms and conditions can be found here).
Prices from:
Important Information:
Your ticket includes:
- Seats in a private compartment on a steam train.
- Heritage train journey from Bridgnorth (WV16 4AX) to Highley and return (approximately 75 minutes). You do not leave the train at Highley.
- Meet and greet with Santa and other characters on-board the train.
- Quality present for each child.
- Sweet treat for all passengers (gingerbread biscuit).
- Bespoke wooden tree decoration for adults.
- Complimentary Child ‘Freedom of the Line’ ticket for a day out in 2027 (terms and conditions apply).
