A North Yorkshire railway is set to welcome back the Polar Express in the run-up to Christmas.

From November 16 until December 23, families and Christmas enthusiasts can experience the festive journey that brings Chris Van Allsburg’s holiday classic to life.

The immersive event begins as soon as passengers board the train, where they are met by a cast of actors who recreate scenes from the popular film.

Nick Keegan, marketing and fundraising manager at Wensleydale Railway, said: "We’re very pleased to host the Polar Express train ride at Wensleydale Railway once again.

"This event is the perfect way for families to make this Christmas a truly magical one and create lasting memories in a unique way."

The ride is enhanced by the film's soundtrack, and culminates in a visit to the North Pole to meet Santa Claus.

Highlights of the journey include the conductor punching each passenger’s golden ticket, hot chocolate and cookies served by dancing chefs, and a visit from Santa Claus who presents each guest with a sleigh bell.

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Passengers are encouraged to wear pyjamas for the ride, similar to the children in the story.

The experience also provides keepsakes including a sleigh bell and a souvenir golden ticket.

Tickets, starting at £38.90 per person, are available at yorkshiredalesthepolarexpressride.com and early booking is advised as last year’s event proved highly popular.

The Polar Express train ride is licensed by Rail Events Inc., in partnership with Warner Bros. Consumer Products. PNP Events Ltd and Wensleydale Railway announced the return of the ride for 2024 following the success of the journey in 2023.

It has become a festive favourite, delighting more than 1.5 million riders at 54 locations worldwide in 2023.

Since 2019, PNP Events Ltd has brought the Polar Express train ride to families across the UK, spreading holiday cheer with their seasonal offerings.

Almost 250,000 visitors have enjoyed the event at Wensleydale Railway since its inception.