Magic of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ at Embsay & Bolton Abbey
Difficulty
easy
Duration
1.5 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all ages and fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required except walking to the station.
Overview
Step into the festive world of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Bolton Abbey. Cozy pajamas, hot chocolate, and a silver sleigh bell from Santa await on this magical steam railway journey.
THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride - Premium
£43.95 - £60.95 | Join us at Bolton Abbey for Festive Fun this Christmas!
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About This Adventure
Experience the enchantment of Christmas aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride at Bolton Abbey! Immerse yourself in the beloved story with singing chefs, delicious hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa, who gifts each passenger a silver sleigh bell. Dress in cozy pajamas for a magical journey filled with festive joy!
Join us at Bolton Abbey Station for festive fun this Christmas!
Do you believe?
We at Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway certainly do and that is why we are proud to be hosting an exciting magical train ride like no other. THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride is returning to Bolton Abbey in 2025 with the magic of the 2004 motion picture THE POLAR EXPRESS™ being theatrically re-created so you and your family can be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale. Prepare to be surrounded by the magic and wonder of the Christmas season!
All aboard THE POLAR EXPRESS™
The anticipation amongst the passengers is incredible. With everyone wrapped up warm in their cosiest pyjamas, all guests will climb aboard with our friendly chefs helping you to find your seats.When you start on your journey, you’ll be astounded as iconic moments from the movie come to life around you. Singing, dancing chefs will serve everyone the most delicious warm hot chocolate, and glorious chocolatey cookies. From the newest to oldest family members, all are invited to share Christmas dreams and memories with the film’s most beloved characters.
Hot Chocolate & Singing Chefs
As ‘Hot Chocolate’ plays, you’ll be entertained and served our famous THE POLAR EXPRESS ™ hot chocolate. The rich, sweet taste will linger in your senses and keep you toasty. Then sit back and enjoy being read the classic Christmas story ‘The Polar Express’ by Chris Van Allsburg.
Characters will show you all the beautiful picture pages from the book so the whole carriage can follow along. You can join in too – you’re welcome to bring your own copy and follow the story. You can’t help but beam as you watch your family become immersed in the beautiful story.Watch as the story comes to life before your eyes, scene after scene on board the steam train and around the train tracks.
Santa
As Santa arrives in your carriage, he will give everyone their very own silver sleigh bell as the ‘first gift of Christmas’. However, as you’ll no doubt be reminded on your journey as well as in the story of the Polar Express, make sure your pockets have no holes!
As the sounds of beloved Christmas carols fill your ears and hearts, the train starts its journey back to Bolton Abbey. On return to the railway station, the magical adventure doesn’t stop there. You can pick up any gifts or treasures to take home in our gift shop.
We always ask our guests, both children and the young at heart, to wear pyjamas just like in the movie. The children will love the special treat, and with many families getting into the Christmas spirit even including matching family pyjamas and onesies to join in the fun, the atmosphere on the train will become even more magical as the film will feel even more alive!
Sadly, like all train journeys, THE POLAR EXPRESS ™ must take you home to get ready for Christmas. We hope that the most magical season of all is crowned by your trip to the North Pole, and that you’ll carry your special memories for the years ahead.
“Well – ya comin’?”
Book your Polar Express tickets today!
Adventure Tips
Reserve Early
This popular holiday event sells out fast, so book your tickets well in advance to secure your preferred date and time.
Dress Warmly and in Pajamas
Guests are encouraged to wear cozy pajamas, but also bring layers or a warm coat for outdoor waiting areas at the station.
Arrive on Time
The train departs promptly; late arrivals may miss part or all of the experience, with no refunds provided.
Plan for Limited Accessibility
While wheelchair accessible seats are available, some areas of the train and station may present challenges; contact the railway in advance if needed.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- Red squirrels, often spotted in the woodland around Bolton Abbey.
- Buzzards soaring above the limestone cliffs, a common sight in Yorkshire.
History
Bolton Abbey is centered around the ruins of a 12th-century Augustinian monastery, offering a rich cultural backdrop to the scenic railway.
Conservation
The railway and local community actively support the preservation of native wildlife habitats and promote sustainable tourism practices to protect the Yorkshire Dales environment.
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Adventure Hotspots in Leeds
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Warm Pajamas
Embody the spirit of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ with cozy pajamas for comfort and festivity during the ride.
winter specific
Warm Coat or Jacket
Necessary for waiting outside before boarding and after the ride, especially in damp or snowy conditions.
winter specific
Camera or Smartphone
Capture moments of the festive decorations, steam train, and scenic Yorkshire Dales views.
Comfortable Shoes
Wear sturdy footwear suitable for walking around the train station and local terrain in variable weather.