Families in York are in for a magical treat this festive season as the National Railway Museum announces a packed programme of events, headlined by a special chance to meet Father Christmas aboard a historic train carriage.
Taking up residence in the Guard’s compartment of a historic Tri-composite carriage in Station Hall from Wednesday 2nd December to Wednesday 23rd December, Santa will be greeting children and handing out gifts. Extended, relaxed sessions will also be hosted for visitors who benefit from a quieter, more flexible setting.
Tickets cost £15 per child and include a mini hot chocolate plus 10% off in the shop. Visitors who book both the Father Christmas experience and the interactive Wonderlab gallery together for the same day will also unlock a 25% discount on Wonderlab entry.
Alongside the ticketed Grotto, the museum is offering a full schedule of free activities, including Christmas letter writing, festive science at the STEM Shed, calendar design workshops, live carols from a local choir on select days, and seasonal treats served aboard the restored Countess of York carriage.
“Our Father Christmas experience sold out within days of release last year, so this year we can’t wait to bring it back bigger than ever along with a whole range of festive activities,” said Sarah Price, Head of Public Programmes at the National Railway Museum. “Our amazing free museum is the perfect day out for families all year round, so we’re delighted to be sprinkling a little Christmas magic across the whole museum to make it extra special for all our visitors this festive season.”
