We may well be in the midst of summer, but every good elf knows that forward-planning is key when it comes to Christmas! Great Central Railway made its list and checked it twice when it launched its festive offering for 2024 and celebrated Christmas in July.
Families, friends and festive enthusiasts are all invited to experience a winter wonderland filled with enchanting events and memorable experiences this festive season. From the beloved Santa Express to delicious dining, a thrilling festive murder mystery event, and elegant Christmas afternoon tea, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
All Aboard the Santa Express!
The Great Central Santa Express returns for 2024, holding 2023 prices and adding exciting new features for an unforgettable experience! A festive tradition for generations of families, this year’s steam-powered adventure promises to delight passengers of all ages, and will be running on selected dates from the 23rd November – 24th December. Immerse yourself in Christmas magic, meet Santa and his jolly helpers, and delight in a specially curated Christmas activity pack for the little ones. Santa will personally deliver a special Christmas gift to each child, along with a drink and treats.
It’s not all about the little ones though, as the grownups enjoy the splendour of the Leicestershire countryside and the excitement of the children, they can soak up the festive cheer with a warming Irish Cream Liqueur and mince pie. There’s also a full at-seat bar service, so guests can sit back, relax and enjoy the ride in style. It’s the perfect way to make magical memories for all the family this Christmas.
For more information and to book, please visit: https://tickets.gcrailway.co.uk/events/79555
Indulge in Christmas Dining
Experience the warmth and joy of the season aboard our steam hauled, First Class Festive Dining Trains. Indulge in our delicious menus that have been specially crafted to take you on a culinary journey while being enveloped in the festive ambiance of our beautifully decorated carriages.
Savour a sumptuous Christmas Day Feast, or kick start the festivities early on our Christmas Forester, Midlander and Jubilee services with meals prepared by our talented on train chef, complete with all the traditional trimmings and seasonal delights – vegan and vegetarian options are available, too.
Trains run on a variety of dates in late November and throughout December. For more information and to book, please visit: https://www.gcrailway.co.uk/christmas-dining-services-2024/
Uncover Clues at the Festive Murder Mystery Event
Step in to a world of intrigue and festive excitement with our First-Class Christmas Murder Mystery Dining Train – ‘Ding Dong Merrily Die’. Enjoy a delicious three-course meal, with rea, coffee and hand finished mince pies, paired together with the excitement of cracking a mysterious case. Unleash your inner Sherlock on this unforgettable dining experience that’ll take place within a seasonally decorated first-class dining carriage.
This event runs on the 6th, 13th and 20th December, departing at 7pm. Tables of two and four are available. To book, visit: https://www.gcrailway.co.uk/christmas-murder-mystery-2024-ding-dong-merrily-die/
Savour the Delights of Christmas Afternoon Tea
Indulge in an array of Christmas treats as you travel through the Charnwood countryside. Savour the taste of delicious scones, topped with clotted cream and sweet jam. Delight in an assortment of sandwiches, each bite a burst of festive flavours. And, of course, satisfy your sweet tooth with an assortment of cakes and pastries, all crafted with a touch of Christmas magic.
Enjoy a round trip from Loughborough Central to Leicester North and back, with afternoon tea on the move. Choose from our standard afternoon tea, or vegetarian / vegan / non-gluten containing alternatives.
Dates to be released imminently – please keep an eye on the GCR website for further information and booking details.
Tickets for those events currently on sale are expected to sell out quickly, so pre-booking is strongly advised. To book your tickets and find out more information about all the events on offer at Great Central Railway, please visit: https://www.gcrailway.co.uk/
Celebrate Christmas with Great Central Railway and create memories that will last a lifetime!
