Enthusiast and family events
Dining trains and footplate taster opportunities are further down the page.
We have lots of family events happening this December (and some in November) – details on our calendar here.
… and then we have dates for your diaries for 2026!
Enter a World of Magic at SteamLights 2025!
This year, our ever-popular SteamLights returns with a breathtaking new theme: The Ice Queen and Mythical Creatures! Join us this November and December at Sheffield Park for an unforgettable evening as you step into a magically illuminated nightscape.
Our Ice Queen herself will perform the grand switch-on, summoning her powers to set the train aglow before your family-friendly narrative journey begins. Along the route, you’ll be delighted by dazzling light displays, enchanting scenes, and a fun “spot-the-creature” adventure—beautifully narrated throughout by the Ice Queen.
Highlights include:
* A fully immersive experience through the glimmering Sussex countryside after dark.
* A 30-minute magical photo stop at Horsted Keynes, where the station is festooned with festive lights—perfect for capturing memories.
* Smartly themed light shows choreographed to music for a sensory feast of sound and colour.
Please note: This year’s theme replaces Santa with the enchanting Ice Queen, bringing a brand-new twist to the festive tradition.
Tickets start from £35, and the full experience lasts about 2 hours—be sure to book early to secure your place on this winter wonderland adventure!
Ready for enchantment? Book your journey now and prepare to be spellbound!
All Aboard for a Magical Christmas!
Step into a world of festive wonder with the Bluebell Railway’s Santa Specials – the ultimate Christmas experience for the whole family!
* Ride in our beautifully decorated vintage steam trains through the wintery Sussex countryside, meet Santa in his cosy parlour, and enjoy a day brimming with Christmas cheer.
* Meet & greet with Santa (with a gift for every child)
* Unlimited funfair rides at Horsted Keynes
* Festive treats like chocolate coins for the little ones
* Snap magical moments with Santa & sparkling stations
* Return journey from Sheffield Park to Horsted Keynes
Running on select dates: 29 & 30 November
6, 7, 13, 14, and 20–24 December
Tickets on sale here – and they sell out fast every year!
Create festive memories that last a lifetime
Get ready for a year of steam, sights & sounds you’ll never forget!
* Spring Steam Gala – 20–22 March
* Model Railway Weekend – 27–28 June
* Bluebell Diesel Gala – 4–6 September
* Giants of Steam – 16–18 October
More details & extra 2026 dates coming soon… keep your eyes peeled
Dining trains
Join us for a fantastic Christmas experience on our Pullman Dining Train this Winter!
Our Golden Arrow fine dining trains can be booked online, so why don’t you create memories and enjoy our Pullman service.
Limited availability remaining on some dates. Some dates are already sold out
Book today
Footplate taster opportunities
Ready for an unforgettable day?
Step onto the footplate and feel the real power of steam with our Steam Footplate Tasters — Sheffield Park, various dates in November 2025.
* Learn how a steam engine is driven & fired.
* Shovel coal, work the controls, experience true steam-locomotive action.
* Take control of either SECR O1 65 or LBSCR 72 ‘Fenchurch (subject to availability).
* Must be 18+ and medically fit. You must arrive 30 mins before the booked session. £330 per person.
* Don’t miss your chance — spaces are limited!
* Book for November 2025
