Christmas has arrived early in Swanage - and that can only mean one thing - all aboard the Polar Express.
Our reporter Hollie Carr hopped on board the festive steam train to experience the true magic of Christmas.
The excitement begins as soon as you enter the doors of Swanage Railway Station - actors are there to meet you with huge grins across their faces - as you are presented with your very own golden ticket.
Eager families could be seen queueing along the platform awaiting the arrival of the steam train which appeared chugging away behind a thick cloud of steam, with actors hanging out of the windows and greeting people with a friendly wave.
As soon as the train left the station, we were all transported into what seemed to be a totally different reality - there was singing, dancing and all kinds of festive madness.
There was not a child on board that didn’t squeal with joy at the mention of Santa who made a very special guest appearance at the end of the journey, joined by his naughty elves.
Santa's little helpers also handed out a very special gift to each and every passenger - a bell.
But this was not any old bell, the bell in The Polar Express is a powerful symbol of the Christmas spirit. It is a reminder that faith and belief in the spirit of Christmas can bring magical things into people’s lives.
The experience is a must for all children and waiting on the platform, you don’t have to look far to see how much excitement it brought each and every young person…and adult.
Many, if not most of the guests adhered to the optional pyjama dress code as passengers are encouraged to get into the true Polar Express mood and wear their best festive pjs.
The overall journey lasts approximately one and a half hours and includes an extra special stop at the North Pole as well as a drive-by of the historic landmark of Corfe Castle - which looks beautiful at night, illuminated in vibrant colours.
Whilst at the North Pole, there’s a festive dance break. Plenty of audience participation is required on this magical train ride which may not be everyone’s cup of tea - myself included - which of course meant that I was picked on to sing along to the hot chocolate song.
I would have to say that a personal favourite part of the trip was the warm cup of hot chocolate that took the chill off of the cool air and the massive cookie that accompanied it.
Each train carriage is aptly named after one of Santa’s reindeer - we were seated in Cupid.
Although the experience itself may seem bonkers, it’s guaranteed to leave you laughing and smiling from the disco lights and dancing, a reading of the Polar Express book and actors keen to make sure that everyone has the best time possible.
Actors are at the heart of the train journey - bringing the story of the Polar Express to life.
The magic doesn’t stop here as there are Christmas carols to sing along to - and don’t worry if you don’t know the words - there’s a handy song sheet to keep you on track.
For those that have made Santa’s Nice List, there’s also an opportunity to write down your very own Wishmas List, which kids and adults can hand over to Santa when he walks down the carriage - and if you’re lucky, you may even be able to get a picture with the big man.
The Polar Express Experience in Swanage is a truly magical journey for people of all ages and everyone in the Cupid carriage was having a wonderful time. Don’t worry if you can’t sing, just sit back, relax and enjoy the journey.
Tickets start from around £39.95 and can be purchased from the Swanage Railway website here: https://www.swanagerailway.co.uk/events/view/polar-express.
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