With Christmas fast approaching, families are being urged to book quickly as only four days are left when they can enjoy the Severn Valley Railway’s much-loved Santa Steam Specials. The last available dates are 20, 21, 23 and 24 December, with spaces now very limited and some services already completely sold out.
A highlight of the experience is The Great Christmas Train Rescue, a festive live show at Arley, created and delivered by the SVR’s partners Wise Owl Theatre. Designed to appeal to young children and grown-ups alike, the 30-minute production forms a magical centrepiece of a memorable day out.
Visitors begin their adventure at Kidderminster station, where the festive atmosphere is set from the moment they arrive. Families in Christmas jumpers and hats gather as carols and seasonal songs ring out, before boarding a heritage steam train for a half-hour journey through the Severn Valley to Arley station.
On arrival, the magic continues with a short walk to a heated marquee, where The Great Christmas Train Rescue unfolds. Santa’s lively helpers Nutmeg and Jingle quickly involve the audience, clapping and singing their way into the story, before Santa himself reveals how last year’s Christmas nearly didn’t happen.
The tale follows Polly the Polar Bear on a mission to uncover what happened when the Santa Express went missing on its way to the North Pole. Along the way Polly encounters the eccentric inventor Victor von Sneeze, to the great delight of young audience members, before the story reaches a heart-warming and happy ending.
Reviewing the experience for British Theatre Guide, Steve Orme praised both the production and the partnership behind it, saying:
“It’s one of the cleverest shows I’ve seen this Christmas. Wise Owl and the SVR are undoubtedly on the right track with The Great Christmas Train Rescue and never run out of steam.
“The magic doesn’t let up when you get to Arley… a charming, 30-minute show designed for three-year-olds and their grown-ups…in every way special.”
Visitors have been equally enthusiastic, with one family saying:
“We had an amazing time. Exceeded all expectations. Really impressed with the quality of staff customer service.”
“Whole experience from booking to end of the day was well organised and entertaining,” added another visitor. “Staff were friendly and helpful. Overall, a lovely Christmas treat for myself and my train-mad son.”
For many, the Santa Steam Specials have become a cherished tradition, with one mum saying:
“Wonderful Christmas experience! Our child loves the SVR especially at Christmas – and we all do. It’s a real family tradition as I used to go as a child too.”
With just four days left and demand at its peak, families are encouraged to book without delay to avoid disappointment.
Timings and tickets are available at svr.co.uk.