AD | All aboard The Polar Express at Churnet Valley Railway: A Magical Experience for Every Age

Review collaboration 

There’s something undeniably magical about Christmas in the UK; the twinkling lights, the scent of cinnamon and pine, and the sound of festive songs filling the air. But this year, we took that festive feeling to a whole new level by stepping aboard The Polar Express at Churnet Valley Railway. It’s a truly enchanting experience that brings the beloved Christmas story to life, right here in Staffordshire.

As a mum of two boys; a 7 year old believer who still wholeheartedly thinks Santa is watching and a 12 year old who’s starting to raise an eyebrow at the idea of flying reindeer, I wasn’t sure how the evening would go. But spoiler alert: both were completely captivated, each in their own way.

All Aboard the Magic

From the moment we arrived at the station, the atmosphere was magic. The platform was decked out with festive lights, Christmas trees, and the unmistakable soundtrack from The Polar Express filling the crisp evening air. Check in was smooth and simple (make sure you keep your barcode to hand) and we were given our golden tickets to board the train.

We took the opportunity to take some photographs ahead of our onboarding and then we stepped inside the waiting room where the names of Santa’s famous reindeer, and the names of the carriages, signposted where we should wait. The staff all in character added to the immersive experience, chatting to children and sprinkling a bit of Christmas mischief wherever they went.

Before long, it was time to wait for the train’s arrival up on the platform as we watched on with colourful lights flashing as the steam train rolled in to the famous Polar Express theme tune. The train arrived and familiar characters hung out the windows encouraging us to climb aboard. Inside, it was warm and cosy with Christmas decorations adorning the carriage. The train conductor’s voice echoed through the carriage as the story began, and even my “too cool for Christmas” son was quietly watching through the window as the train pulled away from the station and into the dark winter night.

The Hot Chocolate Moment

One of the highlights, and it’s worth the hype, was when the chefs Ginger and Candy Floss burst into song and dance, dancing through the carriage with cups and saucers of hot chocolate and then delivering take away cups of delicious hot chocolate and cookies to everyone on board. The energy was infectious! Freddie, our youngest, was grinning from ear to ear, clutching his cookie and dancing along in his seat.

For older children, who might not be as caught up in the fantasy, the theatrical side of it really shines. The cast are brilliant at keeping things light-hearted and funny, making little jokes that adults and older kids can appreciate while keeping the magic alive for younger ones.

Meeting Santa (and that all important bell)

As the train reached the “North Pole”, a stretch of twinkling lights outside the window where Santa waved from his sleigh excitement rippled through the carriage. When Santa himself stepped aboard, the whole train erupted into cheers.

He took his time visiting every family, chatting to the children and handing out the iconic silver bell. Watching Freddie shake it with wonder “I can hear it! That means I still believe!” was a heart-warming moment.

Olly, our eldest, accepted his bell with a smile that said, “I know what’s going on here, but I’m going to play along for my little brother.” And honestly? That’s the beauty of it. The Polar Express gives older children a chance to enjoy the nostalgia and play along without feeling silly; a lovely middle ground between belief and memory-making.

Tips for Families Visiting The Polar Express

If you’re planning your own festive journey aboard The Polar Express at Churnet Valley Railway, here are a few tips we picked up along the way:

Dress for the weather (and the theme!)

The platform and surrounding areas can be chilly, so wrap up warm; hats, gloves, scarves, the lot. Many families wear Christmas pyjamas like in the film, and it really adds to the fun! If you’re feeling self-conscious, a festive jumper works just as well.

Arrive early

There’s plenty to see before the train departs, including photo opportunities and the chance to grab a bite to eat. We arrived around 30 minutes early and it gave us time to soak up the atmosphere without rushing. There’s a small food court area serving mulled wine, smores, hot dogs and sugared donuts plus other take away options.

Capture the memories

Bring a camera or have your phone charged, the lighting on the train is low but magical. The best photos tend to come just before departure or when Santa boards.

Keep expectations realistic for older kids

If you’ve got a tween or teen, don’t push the “believe” message too hard. Let them enjoy it as theatre; the singing, storytelling, and nostalgia, and they’ll still have a great time.

The bell moment is precious, lean into it

When the bell is handed out, it’s a beautiful chance to connect as a family. Whether your child believes or not, remind them it’s about more than Santa, it’s about hope, joy, and being together.

Bring snacks and tissues

There’s a cookie and hot chocolate included, but younger children might want a little extra treat for the journey. And if you’re the sentimental type, you might just shed a tear or two when that bell rings!

Prepare for the gift shop

After the train ride, passengers are directed to exit via the gift shop. There’s a large gift shop selling a wide range of Polar Express gifts. Here you can purchase plush toys, train conductor hats, train sets, fleece blankets and lots more. 

A Christmas Tradition Worth Keeping

By the time the train rolled back into the station, both boys were smiling, one still wrapped up in the magic of Santa, the other quietly humming along to “Believe.” It’s rare to find a Christmas experience that genuinely spans the age gap, but The Polar Express at Churnet Valley Railway manages it perfectly. 

It’s not just a ride; it’s a moment suspended in time. For an hour or so, the magic of Christmas feels real again for the boys, but also for us grown-ups who sometimes forget to believe, too. So, if you’re looking for a festive day out that’s filled with joy, nostalgia, and a sprinkle of sparkle, this is it. Just don’t forget to listen carefully when you shake your bell… because those who truly believe will always hear it ring.

Address: Churnet Valley Railway, Kingsley & Froghall Station, Froghall, Staffordshire, ST10 2HA

Disclaimer: We were gifted tickets to the event in exchange for this honest review.