Kent: The Polar Express Train Ride

About The Polar Express in Kent, Spa Valley Railway

  • Dates: 8th November - 30th December 2025
  • Duration: Please allow 3 hours for your experience.
  • Age Restrictions: Suitable for all ages!
  • Meeting Point: Spa Valley Railway, West Station, Royal Tunbridge Wells, TN2 5QY

Spend Christmas in Kent this December and climb aboard The Polar Express train

Step into the magic of Christmas with The Polar Express Train Rides, a heartwarming, immersive experience inspired by the beloved 2004 festive favourite. From the moment you arrive, you're not just a passenger - you’re part of the story.

Transforming railway stations throughout the UK into winter wonderlands straight from the storybook, families, friends and dreamers of all ages are invited to relive the timeless tale to the North Pole. 

Retrace the festive footprints from the world-famous movie with your loved ones this Christmas -  this is your chance to don your pyjamas and dressing gowns as you climb aboard The Polar Express! 

As you leave the platform, the story of The Polar Express will come to life. Partway through your journey, you'll hear a knock on the roof from Mr. C himself! Greet him and receive your very first Christmas present of 2025 - a beautiful, shiny silver sleigh bell. The rest of your journey will be spent meeting familiar faces from the film, singing along to the soundtrack and feasting on some festive treats as the carriage comes alive with the magic of Christmas.

What's included in The Polar Express Train Ride tickets?

Adults and Children have the same tickets, which will be scanned upon arrival. All tickets for The Polar Express Train Ride in Kent include:

  • A Golden ticket to ride The Polar Express.
  • A theatrical, interactive train ride featuring dancing chefs, singing conductors, and a visit from Santa himself
  • Meet characters from the iconic film with the fully immersive theatrical performance of The Polar Express
  • Jump on board and experience the magical light show
  • A delicious milk chocolate cookie
  • Indulge in some Hot Hot Hot, Hot Chocolate served by the on-board chefs
  • Read along with the story of The Polar Express
  • Say hi to Santa (Mr C), who will present you with the first gift of Christmas, a silver sleigh bell - just like the film!
  • Access to the exclusive Polar Express gift shop selling exclusive merchandise
  • Magical moments, photo ops, and festive cheer from start to finish

Tickets sell fast, so make sure you grab your golden ticket this Christmas and jump onboard The Polar Express Train Ride! Tickets delivered instantly via email & SMS. 

Location

Spa Valley Railway

West Station,
Royal Tunbridge Wells,
TN2 5QY
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How to find us

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  • Please arrive at least 30 minutes before your scheduled departure time.
  • There will be a designated Polar Express Train Ride meeting point at Spa Valley Railway.
Facilities
  • Wheelchair accessible (See More Info)
  • Food and drink
  • Public transport accessible
More Info
Is The Polar Express Train Ride in Kent wheelchair accessible?

Due to the design of the heritage coaches, The Polar Express Train Ride is unable to accommodate wheelchairs.

  • If wheelchair users are able to climb a step and walk a short distance, the team can assist boarding
  • Wheelchairs will be transferred to the arrival station ready for when you get off
  • There are accessible toilets onsite
  • There are limited toilets onboard
What age is The Polar Express Train Ride in Kent suitable for?

The Polar Express Train Ride in Kent is suitable for all ages! Inspired by the 2004 blockbuster film of the same name, the journey will imitate scenes from the family-friendly movie. 

  • Under 18's must be accompanied by an adult. 
Where does The Polar Express Train Ride in Kent depart from?

The Polar Express Train Ride will depart from Spa Valley Railway in Kent.

  • Postcode: TN2 5QY

You will return to Spa Valley Railway after the train ride. 

How long does The Polar Express Train Ride from Kent experience last for?

The team ask guests to arrive at the check-in time shown on your e-ticket.

However, you will not board immediately, as train times are subject to change for up to an hour due to network rail, which is out of the team's control. 

You will be on board for approximately 1 hour - 1.5 hours.

Please note: When planning your journey home, the team recommend you do not plan a journey home less than 3 hours after check-in time. This allows time for arrival, potential delays, seating and the journey itself. 

What should you wear to The Polar Express Train Ride in Kent?

The crew behind The Polar Express encourage guests - both young, and young at heart - to wear pyjamas, just like the book! Wear your dressing gown on top for an extra layer and immerse yourself into the world of The Polar Express.

  • For safety, guests are not permitted to wear slippers, open-toed shoes or flip-flops. (The British weather isn't very kind to fluffy footwear!)
What's included in The Polar Express Train Ride tickets?

Adults and Children have the same tickets, which will be scanned upon arrival. All tickets include:

  • A Golden ticket to ride The Polar Express.
  • Meet characters from the iconic film with the fully immersive theatrical performance of THE POLAR EXPRESS
  • Jump on board and experience the magical light show.
  • A delicious milk chocolate cookie
  • Indulge in some Hot Hot Hot, Hot Chocolate served by the on-board chefs
  • Read along with the story of The Polar Express
  • Say hi to Santa (Mr C), who will present you with the first gift of Christmas, a silver sleigh bell.
  • Access to the exclusive Polar Express gift shop selling exclusive merchandise.

Under 2s will only receive a Gift bell and no food or drink.

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