As Christmas approaches, the Severn Valley Railway has launched a selection of events to appeal to families, foodies and festive music fans.

Santa Trains will depart from Kidderminster town station, and services will run on weekends from 30 November, plus 23 December and Christmas Eve. There’s a present for each child, and reserved seating for the whole family.

Meanwhile, the Enchanted Express departs from Bridgnorth with Santa and his friends on board, on weekends starting 30 November plus Christmas Eve.

Severn Valley Railway’s visitor engagement manager, Lewis Maddox said: “The popular Santa Trains have rightfully claimed their place as a Christmas tradition for many families.

“We’ve an all-new professional panto show at Arley for 2024 featuring the mischievous elves Jingle and Jangle, and Father Christmas himself will be making an appearance on stage too.

“This is a truly magical family experience built around the classic poem, “Twas the Night before Christmas”, and features narration by the unmistakable voice of Dame Julie Walters.

“Each child will receive a present, and of course there’s reserved seating for the whole family.”

For food and drink lovers, the SVR has curated a range of first-class dining experiences for Christmas. On selected dates in December, there are Enchanted Afternoon Teas, Festive Gin Trains, a premium Yuletide Evening Dining Experience and the Festive Spice Train. New for this year is the Evening Santa Pies service, which features a two-course meal and departs from Kidderminster on 13 and 20 December.

If a festive musical journey is what you’re looking for, then the SVR’s Carol Trains are a must. Combining the magic of heritage rail travel in the darkness of a winter’s evening, you’ll travel from Kidderminster to The Engine House at Highley, for a Christmas concert amongst the locomotives on display. Mulled wine and mince pies will be on sale.

Lewis added: “All-in-all, we’ve got Christmas all wrapped up with our range of experience.

“This is such a special time of year, and in the heritage setting of the Severn Valley Railway, it’s sure to be the perfect chance to make memories!”

For more information on the range of Christmas experiences at the SVR, and to book tickets, visit svr.co.uk.