Lapland Express

at Downpatrick & County Down Railway
Downpatrick Available from Sat 28 Nov to Sun 20 Dec

Running on selected weekends before Christmas

Book now to avoid disappointment!

Book Lapland Express tickets and enjoy one of Northern Ireland's most magical Santa train experiences

Step aboard the Lapland Express at Downpatrick & County Down Railway and get ready for a festive family adventure packed with Christmas cheer. Join Santa, Mrs Claus and their merry band of elves for a special railway journey filled with entertainment, treats and seasonal surprises.

  • Meet Santa, Mrs Claus and their elves onboard a festive heritage train
  • Every child receives a high-quality plush toy present from Santa
  • Enjoy festive drinks and Christmas treats included in your ticket
  • Take part in interactive magic shows, games and onboard entertainment
  • Santa visits guests at their seats during the journey
  • Suitable for all ages and perfect for festive family days out

With limited departures running on selected weekends before Christmas, the Lapland Express is one of County Down's most popular festive experiences.

What happens on the Lapland Express Santa Train?

Your Christmas adventure begins at Downpatrick Station, where friendly volunteers welcome visitors before boarding. Santa's helpers assist passengers onto the train before departure, creating excitement from the moment you arrive.

The train travels to Inch Abbey, where guests can enjoy festive refreshments before returning to Downpatrick. Along the way, Santa, Mrs Claus and the elves keep everyone entertained with festive fun, interactive magic and seasonal games.

  • Approximate visit duration: 1.5 hours
  • Train journey and entertainment lasts approximately 45 minutes
  • Visits to Inch Abbey Station for festive refreshments
  • Santa personally visits guests during the journey
  • Children receive a quality plush toy present
  • Festive snacks and drinks included
  • Christmas memories made easy at Downpatrick & County Down Railway

Designed with families in mind, the Lapland Express combines the nostalgia of a heritage railway with the excitement of meeting Santa. Whether you're travelling with little ones experiencing their first Santa visit or continuing a cherished family tradition, there's plenty to enjoy.

Don't miss your chance to experience one of the best Santa train rides in Northern Ireland. Book Lapland Express tickets today and get ready to climb aboard for a Christmas adventure filled with festive fun.

Location

Downpatrick & County Down Railway

Market St,
Downpatrick,
County Down,
BT30 6LZ
Show on Google Maps

How to find us

By car: Downpatrick & County Down Railway is located just a short distance from Downpatrick town centre. If you're travelling from Belfast, follow the A7 directly to Downpatrick. From Newry, take the A25 eastbound. Enter BT30 6LZ into your sat nav and follow signs for the railway. Free parking is available onsite for visitors.

By bus: Regular bus services operate to Downpatrick from Belfast, Newry and surrounding towns. The railway station is within easy walking distance of the main bus station and town centre.

By train: There is currently no mainline railway station in Downpatrick. Visitors travelling by rail should travel to Belfast and continue their journey by bus or car.

On foot: Downpatrick & County Down Railway is around a 10-minute walk from the centre of Downpatrick, making it easy to reach from local shops, attractions and transport links.

Top tip: If you're visiting for the Lapland Express, plan to arrive 20-30 minutes before your departure time to allow plenty of time for parking, collecting your bearings and soaking up the festive atmosphere before boarding.

Facilities
  • Free car parking
  • Wheelchair-accessible train boarding via ramp
  • Dedicated wheelchair seating area
  • Accessible toilets
  • Museum onsite
  • Gift shop onsite
  • Covered station facilities
  • Family-friendly environment
  • Assistance dogs welcome
More Info
Is Lapland Express at Downpatrick & County Down Railway wheelchair accessible?

Yes. There is level access from the car park to the platform, and a ramp can be deployed to assist wheelchair users onto the train. Dedicated wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available.

What age is Lapland Express at Downpatrick & County Down Railway suitable for?

Lapland Express at Downpatrick & County Down Railway is suitable for all ages. Infants aged 0-12 months can attend free if they do not require a present, drink or treat.

Does Lapland Express at Downpatrick & County Down Railway offer carer tickets? If so, how do I book a carer ticket?

If you require carer/ companion tickets please get in contact with Downpatrick & County Down Railway directly.

Is there food and drink at Lapland Express at Downpatrick & County Down Railway?

Yes. Festive drinks and treats are included in the ticket price and are served during the experience.

What do Lapland Express at Downpatrick & County Down Railway tickets include?

Tickets include a return train journey, entertainment from Santa, Mrs Claus and the elves, festive drinks and treats, and a high-quality plush toy gift for children.

Where does Lapland Express at Downpatrick & County Down Railway travel to?

The train departs from Downpatrick Station, travels to Inch Abbey for a refreshment stop, and then returns to Downpatrick Station. The journey takes approximately 45 minutes.

Can I bring a pram to Lapland Express at Downpatrick & County Down Railway?

Prams and buggies are permitted, but space onboard is limited. Where possible, visitors are encouraged to leave prams in their vehicle or at the station.

Are dogs allowed on Lapland Express at Downpatrick & County Down Railway?

No. Due to the nature of the event, only registered assistance dogs are permitted onboard.

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