The Severn Valley Railway is getting ready to pull out all the stops for Christmas, with a packed programme of festive experiences offering something for families, friends and anyone looking to get into the Christmas spirit.
At the heart of the festive programme are the Santa’s Steam Specials, running from Kidderminster from 28 November to Christmas Eve. This year, families can climb aboard a beautifully restored vintage train and head to Arley Station for The Recipe for Christmas, a brand-new interactive musical adventure created especially for the SVR.
The story takes families into Santa’s Kitchen, where Mrs Claus and elves Holy and Jangle are preparing Santa’s pre-flight treat when an intervention by the egotistical Chef Crumble causes culinary chaos. With the clock ticking, the audience is called upon to become Santa’s helpers, joining in with songs, laughter and festive surprises to help save Christmas.
Written and directed by award-winning West End director, choreographer and writer Nick Winston, with original music by Jack McManus, the show culminates in an appearance from Santa himself. Every child also receives a special gift to take home.
Christopher Brookes, artistic director of Wise Owl Theatre, said: “We’re thrilled to be bringing The Recipe for Christmas to the Severn Valley Railway. The Santa’s Steam Specials are such a magical setting for a Christmas adventure, and we wanted to create a show where families aren’t simply watching the story but actually become part of it. With music, comedy, audience participation and plenty of Christmas magic, we can’t wait to welcome families into Santa’s Kitchen.”
There’s another magical adventure waiting at the other end of the Railway, with the Elf Express departing from Bridgnorth on selected dates from 28 November to Christmas Eve.
Passengers step aboard their own compartment for an immersive journey featuring Santa and a cast of colourful North Pole characters, including Gingersnap the Gingerbread Man, Chef Cinnamon Crumble, Joe Robin and Poppy the Post Elf, Chris-Mouse and Trixie the Trickster Elf, Mrs Claus and Cracker the Elf. Developed in partnership with Wise Owl Theatre, the experience combines live performance, interactive storytelling and puppetry, with a special visit from Santa and a gift for every child.
For those looking for a traditional festive celebration, the Carol Trains will run on 4, 5, 11, 12, 18 and 19 December. Travelling through the Severn Valley in the dark from Kidderminster to The Engine House at Highley, passengers can sing along to Christmas favourites with musicians and choirs from across Shropshire and Worcestershire. There’s also a complimentary glass of mulled wine and mince pie for every passenger.
And for a more leisurely festive treat, the Festive Afternoon Tea trains return on 8, 9, 10, 15, 16 and 17 December. Departing from Kidderminster, the train travels through the picturesque Severn Valley to Highley and back, while passengers enjoy delicious sandwiches, scones and sweet treats accompanied by fine tea and the atmosphere of Christmas.
Victoria Evans, head of commercial and customer service at the SVR, said: “There’s something really special about Christmas on the Severn Valley Railway, and this year we have an incredible range of experiences to share.
"Whether families want to join Santa and his helpers for the Santa’s Steam Specials or the Elf Express, friends want to sing their way through the Valley on a Carol Train, or you simply want to relax with a Festive Afternoon Tea, there’s a magical way to celebrate the season with us.
"These experiences are incredibly popular, so we’d encourage everyone to book early to make sure they don’t miss out.”
With Christmas adventures, steam trains, live entertainment, music, Santa and plenty of festive treats on offer, the Severn Valley Railway is inviting visitors to make it part of their Christmas traditions this year.
Bookings are now open and early booking is strongly recommended. There’s further information at svr.co.uk.
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