James Kenward and his family enjoy a magical start to the Christmas festive season at Avon Valley Railway
The festive magic began from the moment my wife and I and our excited daughters arrived at Avon Valley Railway for the Santa Special.
Friendly car park attendants helped us find a space and Christmas music drifted across from the platform while two festive donkeys grazed nearby, instantly catching the girls’ attention.
Inside the Bitton Station ticket office, a roaring fire and beautifully decorated Christmas tree set the perfect seasonal scene. Booking online had been simple and staff welcomed us warmly.
Arriving early gave us time to explore the decorated steam train and enjoy the snow cannon, which created a small winter wonderland on the platform. Our private eight-person booth on the train was ideal for a family, giving the girls space to settle in and making it easy to keep our two-year-old comfortable.
At 10am the guard’s whistle blew and our 50-minute journey began. We travelled first to Avon Riverside for a short break, where we stepped off the train to watch the locomotive change ends. Staff made their way through the carriages with wicker baskets filled with mince pies and biscuits, adding to the traditional atmosphere.
As the journey continued past Bitton to Oldland Common, the girls enjoyed waving at walkers, cyclists and runners along the line. Father Christmas then arrived at our booth for a relaxed and personal five-minute chat, asking about Christmas wishes and whether everyone had been good this year. It was unhurried, warm and completely enchanting for the children.
Back at Bitton, a well-organised queue led to photos beside Santa’s sleigh and the collection of gifts. Each present was thoughtfully chosen and the girls were thrilled.
The atmosphere throughout was joyful, with families in Christmas jumpers and a real sense of excitement. Even our nine-year-old, who had come along slightly sceptical, was soon swept up in the magic.
Before heading home, we made one last stop to visit the donkeys, rounding off a perfect festive outing.
The Avon Valley Railway Santa Special offers traditional charm, excellent organisation and a wonderfully magical experience for families. It’s a brilliant way to start the Christmas season and comes highly recommended.
To book your spot on the Santa Special, click here!
