Travelling on the “Santa Special” carriage of the traditional locomotive number 45379, Santa and his jolly helpers paid a visit to those on board enjoying the scenic Hampshire route.
Spirits were high as elves cracked jokes and families merrily sang their favourite Christmas carols on the tinsel decorated train. The historic railway platform is alight with seasonal decorations and alive with festive songs.
Parents indulged in mince pies and white wine as children enjoyed soft drinks on the one-hour journey across the countryside on a sparkling sunny winter’s day.
Steph Moore, who went on the trip with her children and runs the Renovation Bay-Bee blog, said: “The kids loved the Santa Special train and were chuffed by meeting Father Christmas and by presents they received.
“We enjoyed looking out the window at the views, it is such a lovely part of Hampshire and with a sunny day like we had, we couldn’t have asked for much more. It was great to watch the steam from the train puffing into the air.”
Colin Chambers, chief executive of Watercress Line, said: “Our Santa Special is very popular. It’s one of the only Santa experiences where there is no queuing. Father Christmas comes over to the children in their seats and hands them gifts. It’s great to see their faces lighting-up.”
Santa Special costs £18 each for adults and children. It runs on December 10-11 and 17-24, with three trips a day from Alresford or Alton station. People are urged to allow plenty of time for parking.
