SANTA will soon be arriving at Platform 1.
The Lapland Express is steaming into the Downpatrick and County Down Railway this Christmas for four weekends with a very special passenger aboard… Santa Claus!
Railway volunteer, Robert Gardiner revealed Santa’s itinerary. He said: “He’ll have travelled in style onboard his own steam train – the Lapland Express – to greet scores of children.”
“Although the details of his trip are tightly guarded secrets looked after by the Elfin Safety Executive, it is his understanding that children eager to meet the jolly big man in the red outfit will be inviting everyone to join Santa Claus for some festive fun on the Christmas train.
“Once the Steamer has arrived at the Loop Platform, Santa will invite everyone to his travelling workshop, the carriage where he makes all the toys for all the little boys and girls. Here, they will get to speak one-to-one with Santa and tell him what they really want for Christmas.”
The steam train will be leaving at the railway station for the following weekends:
1st & 2nd, 8th & 9th, 15th & 16th, 22nd & 23rd December.
Santa will also be providing his guests refreshments on the buffet coach, and doors open from 2pm till 5pm.
Fares are £6 for adults, £9 (including present) children over three years old, and £5.50 under-threes plus senior concession. This includes a present from Santa, as well as the train fare.
Admission to see Santa in his workshop is also dependant on children having been good throughout the year.
Mr Gardiner also advises that it will not be possible to board the train at Inch Abbey Station, due to the route the train will be taking and added, “Don’t forget, this is an outdoor event so please wear appropriate clothing.”
And after Christmas Day is over, you can steam into the New Year with the railway’s popular Mince Pie Specials on New Year’s Day.
Mr Gardiner added: “The Downpatrick and County Down Railway is your guaranteed sanctuary from turkey sandwiches just after Christmas day.
“Mince or apple pies are available from our buffet car on New Year’s Day, after relaxing on board a heritage train coasting through the County Down countryside, as a well as a wee glass of something refreshing to brace you.”
For further information on events – or if you are thinking about joining as a volunteer – log on to the railway’s website at www.downrail.co.uk or find them on facebook at www.facebook.com/downrail follow on twitter @downrail .
