All aboard! Steam and Lights on Swanage Railway is the Jurassic Coast’s colourful answer to the Polar Express. After attendees went ‘loco’ for the event in 2023, this fantastic Christmas tradition is back by popular demand.
The organisers, Swanage Railway, describe the event as being an ‘evocative, dramatic and colourful Steam and Lights train journey through the Isle of Purbeck countryside’. You’ll depart from Swanage Station and embark on an hour-long festive journey on a nostalgic steam locomotive!
Photo credit: ANDREW P.M. WRIGHT
Family Christmas activities
Steam and Lights is a unique Christmas experience that is sure to become a fond festive memory for children and adults alike.
The evening will start with a dramatic switch on where you’ll see the bright lights that cover the steam train. Next, you’ll be invited to board the locomotive where you can enjoy festive music and synchronised lights displays as you travel through the Isle of Purbeck. The whole family will love listening to the informative on-train commentary and looking out for stations and points of interest along the route that have been festively decorated in lights!
The journey will set off from Swanage Station and travel through the Isle of Purbeck, passing famous landmarks like Corfe Castle before returning to Swanage.
Enjoy festive food on your journey
Why not add some extra Christmas spirit to your journey by purchasing a tasty treat box to enjoy en-route? The box costs £25 and is for two people. A sample of goodies you’ll find includes specialty crisps, crackers, cake bats, sweet treats and festive items. You can pre-order this when booking your trip! Also available to order in advance is champagne, Swanage Railway Ale and various non-alcoholic beverages.
Event info
Please note: You must pre-book Steam and Lights
So, for prices, booking and more information, please visit the Swanage Railway Website.
Book Steam and Lights
Where to stay
The Jurassic Coast is a wonderful place to get festive in the winter, and Ulwell Holiday park is the perfect place to stay to enjoy Steam and Lights and other brilliant Christmas events that Swanage are renowned for. Choose to bring your tent or tourer or stay in one of our holiday homes. We guarantee you’ll have a magical winter holiday in Dorset. As guests, you’ll have access to our excellent on-site facilities, including, The Village Inn, well-stocked shop and indoor swimming pool.
Book a stay at Ulwell Holiday Park
Photo credit: ANDREW P.M. WRIGHT
Header image by ANDREW P.M. WRIGHT