The Polar Express Train Attraction Returns to Kent This Christmas
Tickets are already selling fast for the immersive theatrical experience inspired by the classic Christmas book.
The popular festive attraction, The Polar Express, is set to return to Spa Valley Railway in Tunbridge Wells, Kent, for Christmas 2026. Following a successful run last year that welcomed 45,000 passengers, the event will once again offer an immersive theatrical journey for families.
Bookings are open from November 7 to December 30, and organizers report that tickets are selling rapidly, with limited availability on many December dates.
Tickets are priced between £37.95 and £73.95. The attraction is organized by Warner Bros, Rail Events Inc, and PNP Events, with theater director Pip Minnithorpe, known for her work on "Harry Potter and the Cursed Child" and "Mamma Mia!," overseeing the production.
The experience is inspired by Chris Van Allsburg's 1985 Christmas book and aims to transform a train ride into a family adventure. Passengers are encouraged to wear pajamas for the journey.
During the approximately one-hour trip, performers bring characters from the book to life. Conductors will punch golden tickets, chefs will serve hot chocolate and cookies, and the story will be read aloud as the train travels towards the North Pole. Each guest receives a milk chocolate cookie, hot chocolate, and the "first gift of Christmas"—a silver sleigh bell—presented by Santa Claus.
This marks the sixth year The Polar Express attraction has been hosted at Spa Valley Railway. The event has garnered positive reviews, with a 4.9-star rating on Google. Previous attendees have described the experience as magical, heart-warming, and unforgettable, praising the engaging performers and the overall festive atmosphere. Many noted that the event appealed to all generations, creating cherished family memories.