One of the most magical Christmas films will be brought to life this winter when The Polar Express travels through Yorkshire for the first time.
The enchanting event blends a theatrical, festive experience with all the wonder of the Great British steam train.
On board, guests - who are actively encourage to arrive in pyjamas and dressing gowns - are treated to hot chocolates and cookies alongside live performances.
Inspired by 2004 hit film The Polar Express starring Tom Hanks, where a boy boards a mysterious train bound for the North Pole (aka the home of Santa Claus) the Yorkshire event hopes to bring the magic of the season to life.
The Polar Express Train Ride is set to depart from Bolton Abbey Station from November through to Christmas Eve.
Guests arrive to the train station - hopefully cosy in their pyjamas - ready to board the magical train, with friendly chefs helping you to find your seats.
Then as the train begins its journey, iconic moments from the Christmas classic film will come to life with some of the film’s most beloved characters.
Santa and his elf might even make a special appearance to deliver the first gift of Christmas…
The Polar Express Train Ride experience will come to Yorkshire this Christmas
Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway said: “Do you believe? We at Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway certainly do and that is why we are proud to be hosting an exciting magical experience like no other.
“The Polar Express Train Ride is coming to Bolton Abbey in 2023 with the magic of the 2004 motion picture The Polar Express being theatrically re-created so you and your family can be immersed in the sights, sounds and intrigue of this classic children’s tale.
“Prepare to be surrounded by the magic and wonder of the Christmas season!”
Tickets are on sale now, with classic tickets priced between £33.95 and £44.95 - that includes hot chocolate, a golden ticket, reserved seats in the historic carriages, a freshly baked cookie, and a gift from Santa.
You can also book premium seats for £43.95 to £54.95, which includes all of the above plus a The Polar Express Train Ride souvenir mug, a goodie bag, and seats in Premium Class.
Accessible tickets and SEN experiences are also available.
Think it's too early for 'C word'? Never mind, you've already clicked on this article.
Sure, we may only be into our second full week of September, but given the fact the weather these past couple of days hasn't exactly screamed summer, it already feels like the festive season is around the corner - but whether or not you think it’s too early to be talking about Christmas, it’ll soon be too tricky to escape from.
Especially not when the famous TV channel showing festive film favourites non-stop is now back on air in the UK.
Yes, you heard that right - Christmas films, 24-hours a day, seven days a week.
If you’re ready to wave goodbye to summer, and in welcome autumn and winter with open arms, then there's arguably no better way of getting into the festive spirit than with the long-awaited and highly-anticipated return of the TV channel that's charmed audiences for over half a decade now.
GREAT! Christmas the UK’s biggest seasonal channel, and it's now live on Sky, Freesat, Freeview and Virgin Media.
You can expect almost four months of back-to-back seasonal movies.
The 24-hour feel-good and free-to-air channel will be bursting with non-stop Christmas spirit, and will be showing a heartwarming lineup of festive films - including some absolute fan-favourite classics that make it to screens every year without fail, alongside some cheesy Hallmark classics, new channel premieres, and so much more.
Viewers will find GREAT! Christmas on Freeview channel 51, Sky 319, Sky (Glass/Stream) 317, Virgin channel 424, and Freely channel 47.
The channel will run until early January.
Featured Image - Freestocks (via Unsplash)
Christmas
Leeds Santa Dash is returning for 2026 and it’s set to be ‘bigger and better’ than ever
Emily Sergeant
Leeds' famous Santa Dash is returning for 2026, and it's set to be 'bigger and better' than ever.
Back by popular demand with the festive season around the corner, The Trinity Leeds Santa Dash has confirmed its return for 2026 this December, with thousands of Santas set to hit the streets of the city centre with festive fun, Christmas cheer, and an unforgettable atmosphere.
No matter whether you're taking part with your family, friends, colleagues, or little ones, organisers say it's the 'perfect way' to kick-start your festive season.
This iconic event welcomes everyone to take part - you can either jog, walk, or wheel your way around the 5K route, soaking up the sights and sounds of the city as you celebrate the most wonderful time of the year, and prams are also welcome too, making it a fantastic festive day out for all ages and abilities.
And this year, it's set to be bigger and better than ever, as there's an exciting new city centre route.
All Santa suits are provided (except for those under three) with your race entry, and you'll also get an exclusive Trinity Leeds Santa Dash finisher medal once you make it over the line, as well as a festive chocolate treat to nibble on.
So, gather your fellow Santas, embrace the Christmas magic, and get ready to join one of Leeds' most joyful festive traditions.
The Trinity Leeds Santa Dash returns for 2026 on Sunday 6 December, and you can find out more and enter to take part in the race online here.
Daisy Jackson -
27th July 2023 
