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Email to a friendTickets are selling fast for GWR Santa Specials, but there is still availability this weekend.
Staff at the Honeybourne Line are really getting into the Christmas spirit as they prepare to welcome a very special VIP guest.
That guest is, of course, Father Christmas who says that the Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway’s Winchcombe station is one of his favourite places to meet youngsters, parents and grandparents. But, like Father Christmas, you have to go by steam train to get there!
The railway’s Christmas season starts this weekend -5th and 6th December – tickets available now, and although tickets are still available right through to Christmas some trains are already fully booked. The services start from Toddington station (AA signposted) from where visitors steam through the Cotswold countryside to Winchcombe.
Colin Fewell, the ‘chief elf’ who organises the event on the all-volunteer-run railway, says: “People tell us that this really is one of the best ‘Santa’ experiences and we strive to make it better every year."
“We’ve redecorated Santa’s grotto railway coach to really make him feel at home. He will be giving really good-quality presents tailored to children’s ages."
“What’s more, there’ll be a welcoming fire in the grate at Winchcombe station where there are superb, specially-made hot mince pies and a drink to enjoy while you’re waiting. And of course, the special experience of travelling on a steam train – where you can, by popular demand, buy extra mince pies!"
“I think it’s made all the more special because staff looking after Santa and our visitors are volunteers and we all think this is a fantastic way to get into the Christmas spirit.”
Tickets really are selling fast, according to the railway, although there is still availability especially for this coming weekend - 5th and 6th December
For the first time, you can book online – go to www.gwsr.com and click the red button on the homepage, the process is secure and very easy. Tickets will be posted to you or can be collected when you arrive. Or you can book by calling 01242 621 405.
There is no car parking at Winchcombe station and the all-inclusive cost includes train travel. Car parking at Toddington station is free.
Tickets cost: Children and adults £12
Babies aged under 2 free but they will receive a small gift.
Christmas Carols by Steam
Get into the Christmas mood with the GWR’s annual ‘Christmas Carols by Steam’ on Saturday evening, 5th December.
The service, in aid of the Fire Fighter’s Charity, takes place under the Christmas lights at Winchcombe station following arrival of the special train from Toddington, which departs promptly at 7.00pm.
The carol service will be conducted by the Hereford & Worcester Fire Brigade Chaplain Rev. Dick Johnson, with music from the Salvation Army band.After the train returns refreshments will be served in the Flag & Whistle tearooms at Toddington.
Tickets are just £8.00 (including refreshments) and you can buy them in advance from the Toddington booking office (telephone 01242 621 405) or contact the GWR’s own fire brigade representative Dave Smith, on 07710 504 765.Tickets can also be collected on the night.
Please note, there will be no car parking at Winchcombe station and the service can only be reached using the special train from Toddington.
Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway plc
The Railway Station,
Toddington,
Gloucestershire,
GL54 5DT
Telephone: 01242 621405
Source: Gloucestershire Warwickshire Steam Railway plc
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