The Polar Express™ Train Ride

Frequently asked questions

Where does the train depart from?

All THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Rides Staffordshire depart from Froghall Station, Froghall, Stoke-on-Trent, Staffordshire ST10 2HA

How long does the journey last?

The actual train ride lasts around an hour; however, we suggest you allow 1.5 hours for the whole experience.

What dates does the train ride operate?

Our 2026 season starts on the 7th of November 2026 and runs on selected dates until the 23rd of December 2026.

How much do POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride Staffordshire tickets cost?

Tickets: £28.95–£52.95 per person.

Children under 2: £3.00 flat fee.

No seat, hot chocolate, or cookie.

Travel on a parent's lap.

Receive a Polar Express Silver Bell.

Child Definition: Any child aged 2 or younger (24 months or less) on the day of travel qualifies as "under 2."

Seats: Any child requiring a seat must purchase an adult ticket.

How can I buy a ticket?

All tickets are sold online via our website. Please visit: churnetvalleyrailway.co.uk/polar-express-train-ride. You cannot book tickets via phone or in person.

What is the difference between Standard Class and Premium Class ?

Standard Class

All passengers receive a hot chocolate drink, and freshly baked cookie along with the coveted silver sleigh bell – the first gift of Christmas.

Premium Class

You receive a hot chocolate drink, and a freshly baked cookie along with the coveted silver sleigh bell – the first gift of Christmas. In addition, you receive the Limited Edition POLAR EXPRESS™ Souvenir Ceramic Mug. These are redesigned each year and cannot be purchased online or in the shop. Each booking will also receive a POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride bag in which to carry your Limited Edition mug. These bags are issued per booking not per person.

Can we link bookings and sit together? - Not available after 1st September 2026

You can link bookings together but this must be done at the time of the second booking. We cannot link bookings over the phone or email. It is important you get the correct name and booking reference number before you attempt to link a booking. We will do our best to sit you together or nearby.

What are the seating arrangements?

Our coaches are from the 1950's – the seating arrangements are fixed by virtue of tables, and aisles as well as internal partitions within our coaches.

We will endeavour to always sit customers around a table or across an aisle. However, there will be instances where bookings will be sat back-to-back.

Equally customers will at times be sat with other customers around a table, no different than sharing a block of seats on a plane or on national rail.

Cookie & Hot Chocolate allergy information

When you make your booking, please select the relevant allergens. We will do our best to accommodate all allergies, however we cannot guarantee this.

You are more than welcome to bring an alternative drink and cookie with you for any member of your party who have allergies.

Do we have to wear PJ's ?

PJs are optional, but it adds to the magic of the event when everyone is cosy in their PJs and dressing gowns. The train is heated, but make sure to dress warm underneath. We don’t want you freezing on the platform. You will need to wear suitable footwear to walk from the car park to the station

Can I make any changes to my order?

There is a £25 fee chargeable should you need to make any changes to your order. This includes, but is not limited to, Name, Address, Date, Time etc. You will not be able to make any changes to your order after the 1st September 2026.

Is THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride hauled by a steam locomotive?

We aim to provide a steam locomotive for all our services. However, because of the ever-increasing age of our locomotives, occasionally, despite our best efforts, sometimes our locomotives are not available and we may have to substitute our booked locomotive for an alternative to ensure the experience goes ahead.

Is there any heating on the train?

Our train is fully heated.

How early should I get there?

You should allow ample time to ensure you arrive at the time printed on your ticket. We suggest no earlier than 20 minutes before your departure time. The trains will depart promptly so please do not be late or you will miss your train. Our site will not open till 1300 on the day of travel.

Is there event parking?

Free event parking is around 6 minutes’ walk away from our station. If you require accessible parking due to a disability or health condition, please provide your blue badge on the day. You will be directed to the disabled parking area.

Are pushchairs allowed on board?

You are unable to take pushchairs and car seats on THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Train Ride. You will be required to leave them at the buggy storage point and our staff will look after them until you return.

Are dogs allowed on the train?

With the exception of service dogs, no dogs or animals are allowed on the train. Service dogs will need to sit under the table for the duration of the journey.

Is this event suitable for guests with disabilities?

Churnet Valley Railways strives to be as inclusive as possible for all our rides and events. While there are some areas with uneven surfaces, our staff will gladly go out of their way to provide a fun, safe, and enjoyable experience to all. Please feel free to contact us. for more information regarding questions or request for guest with disabilities

Are there disabled toilets available?

Yes, we have toilets available for our disabled guests at Froghall Station. Should you wish to use the facilities please ask a member of staff who will be happy to guide you to them.

Can wheelchair users board the train whilst in their wheelchair?

Unfortunately due to the design of our heritage coaches we are unable to accommodate wheelchairs. If the wheelchair user is able to climb a step, and walk a short distance we can assist in boarding. Wheelchairs will be looked after by our platform staff until you return.