Brecon Mountain Railway in Merthyr Tydfil will host The Polar Express Train Ride for the first time in Wales this winter, offering families an immersive festive experience based on the beloved film and book.
The one-hour round-trip journey departs from Pant station and travels through Bannau Brycheiniog (Brecon Beacons) on a vintage narrow-gauge railway, passing Pontsticill, the Taf Fechan Reservoir, and Torpantau. Passengers will be guided by actors portraying characters from the story, set to the film's soundtrack.
Once aboard, the conductor punches golden tickets before dancing chefs serve hot chocolate and cookies. Guests read along with Chris Van Allsburg's classic book, and Santa boards the train to greet each passenger and give the first Christmas gift of the year. Everyone receives a keepsake sleigh bell and a souvenir golden ticket.
Departures run from Friday, November 13 to Wednesday, December 23. Tickets go on sale to the general public on Thursday, April 16, with newsletter subscribers gaining early access on Wednesday, April 15. Organisers expect the experience to sell out quickly and recommend booking early.
The Polar Express Train Ride is a global phenomenon; in 2025 it welcomed nearly 1.8 million passengers at 58 locations across the US, Canada, the UK and Australia.
