REVIEWS & GALLERY

THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride South Devon Railway

All aboard for an unforgettable Christmas adventure! Step into the magical world of The Polar Express™ Train Ride at South Devon Railway, where the holiday spirit comes to life. Immerse yourself in this cherished festive tradition with glowing reviews and a gallery of enchanting moments. From the conductor’s call of “all aboard” to the final sip of rich hot chocolate, relive the wonder, see what others are saying, and discover why this experience is a must for families, friends, and Christmas lovers alike.

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A highly rated event

darren F.
01:24 25 Jul 25
Traveled down to Devon for this experience and it was so well worth it . Car parking was easy , it was a bit mucky as it was raining so a change of shoes is advisable. The area was decorated well to give that festive feeling , gift shops and food stalls , quite expensive so if you have a number of children expect a big bill ,
The real excitement starts when the train rolls into platform . You can see the smoke in the distance , boarding the train is well organised , once on everything just gets festive , the actors give a good performance, your served hot chocolate and a cookie whilst they perform the hot chocolate song , the conductor did actually look like Tom hanks character , the chocolate drink wasn’t quit warm and the cookie a bit soggy thob, the highlight obviously Is the arrival of Father Christmas and fair play he put a lot off effort it . The gift of the bell is something to keep as a reminder , all in all a good experience
Susan D.
22:18 24 Jul 25
The best Christmas treat ever!!! What a day, from the moment we arrived and waiting to board the train throughout the whole day it was magical and amazing. The conductor, the singing waiters, Santa and the naughty elf everything was incredible, wonderful and just perfect. We loved it every single minute. A 7yr old, 25yr old and a 53yr old.
Andy M.
17:14 24 Jul 25
The Polar Express is by far the best thing I've ever spent money on. I've taken the family twice and we loved it.

Even my 18 year old son was singing and dancing about. From arrival to departure it's pure magic.

The energy of the performance. The railway staff are superb.

I can't fault it and would give more stars if I could
Lisa S.
16:57 24 Jul 25
We had a great time at the Polar Express. The way they tell the story, act/ dance up the isle and if you’re very lucky you may see Mr C. The lovely thought of the Christmas present/wish is wonderful. Also lovely hot chocolate and cookies. Really can’t wait to go back 🙌🏻🥹🎅
Jill A.
14:51 24 Jul 25
The most magical Christmas experience we have shared with the children. From start to finish, every detail had been considered and every member of the team made the whole experience really special. The children still talk about it - and I know they would love to go again. My grown-up daughter was just as moved as the children - especially when Santa gave her a bell!
Simon P.
15:14 21 Dec 24
Absolutely outstanding experience. Simply amazing.
Antony C.
13:28 20 Dec 24
Wow, this was fantastic, the kids loved it and it was very entertaining for the grownups too.

The experience was made by the staff who were all superb. The team in Coach C/D this morning were so enthusiastic and lovely and the singers in the marquee were great too - I hope they all feel appreciated.

Thanks for putting together a lovely experience.
Alvan S.
09:29 19 Dec 24
A great night on the polar express at the South Devon Railway it was very enjoyable like a pantomime on wheels well done to the south Devon railway.
Rosemary H.
12:59 14 Dec 24
Brilliant, entertaining for all the family
Shell
08:24 09 Dec 24
Absolutely loved it. Great experience!
Matt H.
12:31 08 Dec 24
Blown away. That was a genuinely magical experience - the light in our daughter's face, the energy and passion of the actors... You're absolutely fantastic and there are no words sufficiently magnificent to capture the look in her eyes.

Thank you all. Just incredible.
Lloyd G.
16:13 04 Dec 24
Great experience.
Bus S.
09:09 20 Dec 21
Absolutely brilliant. It's like a panto on a train. From parking to getting you back to your car, everything is extremely well planned and organised. The only thing that let's it down is the Polar Express Gift Shop. It's rubbish! Unless we caught it on a bad day. Top tip - watch the movie before you go (our kids did as kids, hubby and I have never seen it.). Everything before and on the train is linked to the movie and you will understand more of what's going on. We had to keep asking our daughter questions. Our granddaughter loved it and understood every reference. When you get off the coach you will be ushered into a marquee where a children's entertainer will try to keep you, aka your kids, occupied for about 15/20 minutes. There is no need to queue to get on to the platform. The entertainment is to try and stop people doing that and the gate to the platform doesn't open until the show is over. The train is just down the track out of view and does not come until everyone is through the gate. All in all, a great day and would do it again.
FYI, they serve hot chocolate and a large cookie on the train for premium ticket holders. I noticed they had bottles of squash and water under the seats, but if you have food allergies/preferences, maybe bring your own cookie.
Rated 5 / 5 from 553 Facebook reviews.

It was worth every penny

My girls were in awe the whole time, their faces throughout it all is something I will remember forever! The attention to detail to the film was amazing, Santa who came on to our carriage was incredible and the actors were so good and interactive. Yes it was expensive but it was worth every penny and I’d definitely recommend. - Nicola A D, January 2025

Had the most magical time

Had the most magical time on the polar express train ride, the staff were amazing and really got everyone involved! Seeing my kids faces was just the best! The carriages were decorated beautifully and the personal interactions were just brilliant. Would 100% recommend to all! - Francesca T, December 2024
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Rated 100% on Facebook Reviews*

Since its launch in 2021, The Polar Express™ Train Ride at South Devon Railway has delighted thousands of passengers with its festive charm and immersive Christmas experience. With an impressive 100% rating on Facebook Reviews (something we are super proud of), it’s clear that families and fans alike treasure the magic, joy, and memories created on this enchanting journey to the North Pole.

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*Correct as of 20th February 2025

Santa on the polar express train ride
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Chef on board THE POLAR EXPRESS South Devon Railway
Santa on The Polar Express
The conductor on board the polar express at south devon railway
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Chef on the Polar express
Santa on board THE POLAR EXPRESS

100% recommended

First Visit to the Polar Express today & what a great first experience we had.
Our visit was magical from start to finish. Well done to all the staff on site who make it run smoothly, The stewards in the carpark, checking in, the boarding of the train & of course the amazing actors on board who entertained everyone from the moment you step on, to exiting the platform.
100% recommended taking a trip on this Polar Express train. - Sinead L, December 2024

We highly recommend this experience to families

Our experience at the Polar Express at South Devon Railway was truly unforgettable. The kids loved every minute of it and we have made so many great memories. From the magical train ride to meeting Santa, everything was perfect. We highly recommend this experience to families looking for a fun and memorable holiday activity. Thank you for creating such a wonderful event! - Maggie G, December 2024
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Official Merchandise

Official THE POLAR EXPRESS Train Ride merchandise is available to purchase from North Pole Trading.

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