A magical Christmas train experience based on Chris Van Allsburg’s much-loved picture book is heading to Brecon Mountain Railway later this year – the first time The Polar Express Train Ride has ever been staged in Wales.
The one-hour round trip will depart from the railway’s main station at Pant, just north of Merthyr Tydfil, travelling through Bannau Brycheiniog on a vintage narrow-gauge line. The route passes Pontsticill, runs alongside the full length of the Taf Fechan Reservoir, and climbs towards Torpantau – one of the highest railway summits in Britain.
What to expect on board
A cast of actors will bring the story to life throughout the journey, set to the film’s soundtrack. A conductor will make his way through the carriages punching golden tickets, before dancing chefs serve hot chocolate and a cookie. Passengers will read along with the original picture book before Santa and his helpers board the train to greet every guest and hand out the first Christmas gift of the year.
Families are encouraged to turn up in their pyjamas to get into the spirit of the story, and each guest will take home a keepsake sleigh bell and a souvenir golden ticket.
Tickets and dates
Services will run from Friday, November 13 through to Wednesday, December 23. Tickets go on sale to the general public on Thursday, April 16, though newsletter subscribers can access them a day early on Wednesday, April 15.
The experience has proved hugely popular worldwide, with nearly 1.8 million passengers attending across 58 locations in the US, Canada, UK, and Australia in 2025. Early booking is recommended as events are expected to sell out quickly.
More information and tickets are available at: https://thepolarexpressbmr.wales/ 🎄
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