The thrill of travelling on a steam hauled Santa Special has been a treat for thousands of children and families over the years at the Kent & East Sussex Railway but this year the heritage railway wanted to make sure that the grown-ups get their Christmas steam treat too.

With the railways ‘Santa Specials’ running as usual, the welcome introduction of “Yuletide Specials” which are aimed at adults will offer a festive, cosy and leisurely trip through the delightful Rother Valley countryside running from Tenterden, Kent to Northiam, East Sussex.

Credit: Kent & East Sussex Railway

Railway Sales & Marketing Manager Helen Douglas, said: ‘It will be a great opportunity to forget the pre-Christmas hustle and bustle, get away from the domestic duties for a couple of hours and enjoy a relaxing trip on one of our magnificent historic trains. Father Christmas won’t be there – unless he’s a passenger! – but our guests will be treated to mulled wine and mince pies and the train will be festively decorated.’

‘We love running our Santa Specials and seeing the joy on the children’s faces, but thought adults deserve something a bit special in the lead up to Christmas treat too!’

Credit: Kent & East Sussex Railway

With a fabulously festive atmosphere, passengers will be treated to a local choice at Tenterden station before the train leaves for the 70 minute round trip. 

Passengers will also enjoy a complimentary mince pie and hot drink served during the journey and can also buy further light refreshments on board.

A miniature model Christmas village will be displayed at Tenterden, along with the opportunity to buy Christmas gifts and mementos in the gift shop.

Credit: Kent & East Sussex Railway

The Yuletide Specials will be running on Friday 10th December 2021 with carol singing and mulled wine at Tenterden station from 10.30am and the first train departing at 11.30am. 

The afternoon ‘Yuletide Specials’ will begin with carol singing and mulled wine at 1.30pm at Tenterden station with the train departing at 2.30pm.

Credit: Kent & East Sussex Railway

Tickets can be purchased for solo seats and tables for 2 or 4 adults, another option is to celebrate in style with a private compartment which can seat up to 8 people. First-class travel is also available.

To find out more please visit the Kent and East Sussex Railway website.