Artistic rendering โ Event may differ
Steaming Into Christmas
Experience the magic of the holidays with Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways' 'Steaming Into Christmas' events. Journey through the breathtaking landscapes of Snowdonia National Park on festive steam trains. Meet Santa Claus himself on the 'Santa Trains' or in his magical grotto, complete with gifts for children. Enjoy unique footplate rides and post-Christmas scenic tours, offering a charming way to celebrate the season.
What to Expect
Historic steam train journeys through Snowdonia National Park during Christmas.
Know Before You Go
- Tickets: $$ โ Get tickets
- Parking: Free parking for railway passengers is available at Llyn Bach car park near Porthmadog Harbour Station. At Caernarfon Station, free parking is available on the road with a blue badge or in a Gwynedd Council car park.
- Accessibility: Visitors travelling in a wheelchair or with restricted mobility should call the Booking Office to book tickets to ensure ease of accessibility and sufficient seating space. Disabled passengers and their carers receive a 10% discount.
- Pets: Dogs are welcome in most standard class accommodation (exceptions apply, not allowed in carpeted compartments or 1st/Gold Class except assistance dogs). Dogs are allowed in dog-friendly outdoor areas at Spooner's Cafรฉ & Bar, and dog-friendly undercover outdoor areas at Tearooms at Tan y Bwlch Station.
Other Christmas Events Near Porthmadog
Local Insight & Ratings
Family Friendly
Best For
Families, christmas enthusiasts, train lovers
Vibe
Festive, magical, scenic, historic
Energy Level
Moderate
Budget
$$
Photo Friendly
Weather Sensitivity
Low
Special Events & Promotions
- Gold Class tickets include mulled wine, mince pie, and Christmas cracker for adults.
- Children and babies receive a Christmas present from Santa, carton of drink, biscuit, and Christmas cracker.
- Footplate rides are free (donations welcome).
- One Way tickets are available for the 'Christmas Mountain Spirit' service (must be booked via phone).
Location
Event Details
Duration
Approx. 2 hours 20 minutes to 2 hours 45 minutes per journey
Ages
All ages
Timed Entry
Yes
Organizer
Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways
Food & Drink
Mulled wine and mince pies available on Welsh Highland Santa Trains. Food and drink vendors, cafes, and bars are available at various stations including Spooner's Cafรฉ & Bar, Tearooms at Tan-y-Bwlch Station, and Caffi De Winton at Caernarfon Station.
Quick Actions
Tips & Advice
- Book tickets in advance, especially for Santa Trains and the Christmas Grotto, as they are popular and sell out quickly.
- Dress in layers for your train journey, as the weather in Snowdonia can be unpredictable, and it can get chilly on the train.
- Arrive at the station at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure to allow time for check-in and to soak in the festive atmosphere.
- Consider visiting earlier in the hourly slot for the Porthmadog Christmas Grotto to ensure ample time to meet Santa.
- While dogs are welcome on most trains, they are not permitted in 1st/Gold Class carriages (except assistance dogs), so plan accordingly.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is included with the Santa Train tickets?
Adults receive mulled wine, a mince pie, and a Christmas cracker. Children and babies receive a Christmas present from Santa, a carton of drink, a biscuit, and a Christmas cracker.
Can I bring my own food and drink on the train?
Yes, you are welcome to bring your own food for the journey. Catering options are also available at various stations.
Are there toilet facilities on board the trains?
Most services (Mountain Spirit, Quarryman, Gelert Explorer, Aberglaslyn, Snowdonia Star, Harbourmaster) have small on-board toilet facilities. The 'Woodland Wanderer' service does not have on-board toilets, but facilities are available at Tan-y-Bwlch Station.
Can I return on a later train if I have a return ticket?
Return tickets are for a specific service only. To return on a later train, you must book two separate single journey tickets, subject to timetable and availability.
What is the difference between the 'Santa Trains' and the 'Whistling Reindeer'/'Christmas Mountain Spirit' services?
The 'Santa Trains' (Welsh Highland Railway) feature Santa and his elves with gifts. The 'Whistling Reindeer' and 'Christmas Mountain Spirit' services are scenic post-Christmas journeys and do not include Santa.
Always check the official website for the most current information.
We've done our best to keep details up-to-date, but event schedules, prices, and policies can change. For the latest updates, please visit the official website or contact the organizers directly.