Santa steams in to Severn Valley Railway

Thousands of visitors flock to the SVR each December to enjoy its range of festive season services – and the railway is encouraging people to book their tickets in advance to avoid disappointment. Father Christmas has gathered his team of elves and will be arriving to launch services, including the Santa Steam Specials, running every weekend from December 3 to 24.

The SVR's fleet of steam locomotives will take families on steam train journeys from Kidderminster to meet Santa in his special grotto at Arley Station.

Santa's elves will be on hand to welcome visitors and, after meeting the big man himself, each fare-paying child will receive a present.

Visitors can then soak up the festive atmosphere of Arley Station at their leisure, enjoying some seasonal music and indulging in some traditional treats including hot roasted chestnuts, before boarding the train for the return trip to Kidderminster. Fares start from £14 per person.

Father Christmas will also be welcoming families on board his Santa Herald services, from December 20 to 23, when he will visit everyone on the train, handing out presents and posing for festive "selfies" during the journey to Highley.

Christmas lunches are on offer on selected dates in December on a round trip from Kidderminster to Bridgnorth.

A festive treat is on offer thanks to the Christmas Carvery Service, offering return diesel train travel from Kidderminster to The Engine House Visitor Centre, enabling visitors to enjoy a leisurely two-course Christmas lunch with a soft drink or glass of Prosecco.

The SVR's Festive Season Services also runs from Boxing Day until January 2.

Tickets for the railway's festive services are now available to book at www.svr.co.uk