Christmas Elves sat in front of Weardale Railway Train Christmas Elves sat in front of Weardale Railway Train

Something Magical is Coming to Bishop Auckland this Christmas with The Aucklandshire Express: The North East’s First Illuminated Christmas Train Spectacular!

Get ready for a magical journey like no other as Weardale Railway presents The Aucklandshire Express, the North East’s inaugural illuminated Christmas Train Spectacular! The Aucklandshire Express is a brand-new Festive Event from Weardale Railway you won’t want to miss!

You are invited to join us on this truly spectacular magical Christmas train journey, on board the North East’s new Illuminated Festive Light Train!.  

Unforgettable experience: The Aucklandshire Express dazzles with thousands of sparkling festive lights, creating a spectacle unlike any other. Capture cherished family moments on the platform as the train arrives, then hear the conductor’s call of “All Aboard” as your journey unfolds! 

Adventure awaits, wrap up warm – don’t forget your hats and Christmas jumpers Departing from Bishop Auckland West Railway Station, you’ll travel deep into the Durham Dales, once known as “Aucklandshire – Land of St Cuthbert and the Prince Bishops

Magical Moments: Inside the cosy warmth of the train, indulge in hot chocolate and sweet treats served by our friendly Elves. The adventure continues with a narrated Christmas story and live performances by our talented cast and crew.

Meet Santa and his Elves: Enjoy a festive sing-along, this is an immersive experience, with interactive entertainment, and the chance to deliver your letter to Santa in person as you journey to a secret location, where Santa Claus and his Workshop Elves will join you for the return trip

Take Home special memories: Every child receives a surprise gift from Santa—a memento of this iconic experience!

Limited Capacity, Book Now!:

With only 4 trains a day for 21 days; November trains will operate on 6 dates: 16th, 17th, 23rd, 24th, 29th and 30th. In December trains will operate for 15 days: 1st, 6th, 7th, 8th, 13th, 14th, 15th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd and 24th. Trains times are – 1500, 1630, 1800 and 1930 (except Xmas Eve)

Hurry, spaces are limited and we expect high demand for please book in advance. Don’t miss out on this unique Christmas spectacular, the first of its kind in the North East! Secure your tickets now for a journey filled with magic, wonder, and joy!

For booking and more information, visit Aucklandshire Express’s website.

Early bird discounts are available for November and December and standard pricing starts from £25/30. *Early Bird Discount (Valid from 31 May – 31 July 2024 – subject to availability*

STANDARD Ticket includes: Airline type seating, hot chocolate & muffin, Santa visit and a Christmas gift prices range from £25 to £35

PREMIUM Ticket includes: as Standard above, but with seating around a table. Tickets range from £30- £40

VIP Ticket includes: as Standard above wider seats set around a table, longer 1:1 time with Santa. Prices range from £40- £45

Under 2’s go free seated on a parents lap. No food or gift included & must hold a valid free ticket to board, free ticket available to book at time of purchase of other tickets)