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The Polar Express Train Ride

Each year the Wensleydale Railway welcomes the magical Polar Express Train Ride to North Yorkshire. Bringing with it a touch of magic to the local area and creating festive memories that will last a lifetime. Based on the book by Chris Van Allsburg and the 2004 iconic film, which stars the voice of Tom Hanks. The Polar Express Train Ride recreates the story of one boy’s adventure to the North Pole on Christmas Eve. Because this highly anticipated annual event is often booked we have decided to help with your trip. Here are some helpful guidelines!

Planning your train ride on The Polar Express:

Polar Express

What is the Polar Express Train Ride?

The Polar Express Train Ride recreates the story of the 2004 film through a magical and theatrical train ride for kids, big and small!

The story of the film comes to life through music, story-telling and singing chefs. Not forgetting the larger-than-life conductor character as passengers feast on hot chocolate and cookies before Santa is welcomed on board. 

Polar Express

Where is the Polar Express Train Ride?

The Polar Express Train Ride begins and ends its journey at either Leeming Bar station or Bolton Abbey station near Embsay.

Where passengers wait on the platform to see the magic begin. An impressive Polar Express steam train makes its theatrical entrance. Steaming into the station and the adventure begins as the conductor shouts ‘All Aboard”!  Parking at the station is limited so thankfully there is a handy park-and-ride for all passengers. Parking includes disabled access, full details are supplied with your tickets.

Wesleydale Railway Bolton Abbey Station
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How long does the Polar Express last?

The Polar Express Train Ride lasts approximately one hour.

There is a gift shops and other attractions at the station so you may wish to allow yourself more time. What will you buy?

Those who have bought tickets in the past will know most guests attend in their pyjamas and dressing gowns. Ready to embrace the full magical experience? 

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Where to stay in the area

The most wonderful time of year deserves an equally magical festive setting!

Why not celebrate with a Christmas break in a luxury holiday home? The properties are decorated in all their festive glory, making your stay extra special. They are fully equipped to give you the home-from-home feeling.

Book a small family holiday cottage, or a large cottage big enough for the whole family. Holiday at Home offers plenty of choice within easy reach of Leeming Bar for your train ride!

North Yorkshire Cottages Family Friendly Cottages
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Where can I purchase tickets?

Polar Express Tickets can be purchased from the official website relevant to their chosen location. One train ride is taken from Leeming Bar station near Bedale known as the Wensleydale Railway. The other is near our Bolton Abbey boltholes at the railway station for Embsay and Bolton Abbey.

Our guests have loved the ride. We don’t want you to miss out, so make sure you plan your accommodation and tickets. It get’s booked up months in advance!

Wensleydale Railway Bolton Abbey Station

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