Imagine your child’s excitement when you combine a visit to see Santa with the thrill of a real train ride. Santa train experiences bring together a proper train journey, storytelling, singing, games, a cast of elves and Mrs Claus, and of course a personal visit with Santa himself — the kind of outing that becomes a family tradition.
Below are some of the Santa train experiences running around Ireland this festive season. Dates, times and booking details change from year to year, so always check the official link for each one before you travel.
YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: 50 Magical Places to Visit Santa in Ireland
Festive Santa Train Rides
The Santa Express Train from Mullingar to Longford
[[IMG:1]]
Santa, Mrs Claus and the elves join families on the Santa Express — a real train — travelling from Mullingar to Longford for a festive train ride each December. The journey is fully accessible, with a sensory carriage available for children with additional needs.
This event is run in support of local scout fundraising, so booking details, dates and any age concessions can vary year to year. For current dates and to book tickets, click here.
Santa Express at Wicklow Christmas Market
[[IMG:2]]
A day at Wicklow Christmas Market wouldn’t be complete without a visit to see the big man himself. The Santa Express takes you and your family on a fun ride to the North Pole, travelling through a Tunnel of Lights along the way.
After the train ride, a team of elves will be waiting to greet you, along with plenty of laughs and shenanigans. Next comes a visit with Mrs Claus, who reads her favourite Christmas story and leads a sing-along for everyone.
Then it’s time to meet Santa himself. Families visit as a group, each child gets to share their Christmas list, and every child receives a small gift. Don’t forget to post your letter in Santa’s official post box before you leave.
The Santa Experience at Oakfield Park, Donegal
[[IMG:3]]
The Santa Express at Oakfield Park is a real train journey to see Father Christmas and his elf family.
Along the way, meet Mrs Claus in her snug cabin, where she hosts a puppet show starring her mischievous puppets. Children then get to meet Santa and receive a special gift, join in elf games, and warm up with a complimentary hot drink.
Santa’s Train Adventure at Rathwood, Carlow
Santa’s Train Adventure at Rathwood runs on selected dates through November and December. Board the train and journey through an enchanted forest, spotting Mrs Claus and the elves along the way, before arriving at Santa’s Big Top for singing, dancing and interactive family fun. The visit finishes at Santa’s workshop, where each child receives a toy.
The Santa Express at Waterford Suir Valley Railway
[[IMG:4]]
Set off on a real train alongside the Waterford Greenway and the River Suir to meet Mrs Claus and friends in the Magic Wood. The fairies there have been busy making magic dust to help Santa find your house on Christmas Eve, and every child takes some home.
After the Magic Wood, families enjoy a private visit with Santa and receive a quality toy. Keep the camera ready — there are plenty of photo opportunities along the way. Full details and booking are available on the Waterford Suir Valley Railway site.
The Santa Special
[[IMG:5]]
The Santa Special is a return journey aboard a vintage train, with a visit to see Santa built in. Departing from a special platform in Belfast, the journey takes around 35 minutes and includes a meet-and-greet with Santa and photos with him. Elves hand out selection boxes to everyone, and each child receives an activity pack as they board, including a letter to decorate and post to Santa once you reach the station.
YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: Things to Do with Kids Around Ireland at Christmas
Amber Springs Santa Train Experience, Wexford
[[IMG:6]]
With a little “ho ho ho” and plenty of Christmas magic, the Amber Springs Santa Train Experience sees families travel aboard the Amber Express, following glimmering lights and sparkling trees to the Amber Christmas Village.
Once there, explore the village together, enjoy a festive treat, and watch the elves busy at work before heading off for a personal visit with Santa.
YOU MAY ALSO ENJOY: The Most Wonderful Places to Visit Santa and Stay Over in Ireland
[[IMG:7]]
Frequently Asked Questions
How far in advance should we book a Santa train experience?
These events are hugely popular and tickets for the most in-demand dates can sell out early. It’s worth booking as soon as tickets go on sale for the venue you’re interested in, and checking the official link for exact dates and availability.
What age group are Santa train experiences suitable for?
Most of these experiences are designed with young children in mind, typically toddlers through to early primary school age, though older siblings usually enjoy the day out too. Check each venue’s own guidance, as suitability can vary.
Do we need to bring anything with us?
Comfortable clothing and footwear are a good idea, along with a camera for photos with Santa and the elves. Some venues include a letter to Santa as part of the experience, so it’s worth checking in advance whether you need to bring your own pen.
Are these Santa train experiences accessible?
Some venues, such as the Mullingar to Longford Santa Express, offer accessible carriages and sensory-friendly options. Accessibility varies by venue, so it’s best to check directly with the organiser before booking if this is important for your family.
Related Articles
- 50 Magical Places to Visit Santa in Ireland
- Things to Do with Kids Around Ireland at Christmas
- The Most Wonderful Places to Visit Santa and Stay Over in Ireland
Save This for Later
Not ready to book yet? Bookmark this page or share it with the family so you have all these festive train rides in one place when you’re ready to plan your Santa visit.
Get More Festive Ideas Every Week
Want more days out like this delivered straight to your inbox? Sign up for the MyKidsTime newsletter for weekly ideas, festive inspiration and family events near you.
