CHRISTMAS officially arrived in the Dee Valley this morning as the first Santa Special of 2025 departed from Llangollen Station in a flurry of steam, carols and festive excitement.
Station Master Peter Dickinson proudly blew the whistle at 10.15am, sending families off on the season’s first magical journey to “Lapland”. Before departure, the steam crew – Harvey Baldwin, Richard Smith and Malcolm Lees – completed final checks to ensure the locomotive was ready for a safe and spectacular run.
Today’s event followed a vibrant launch ceremony featuring the Llangollen Silver Band, who performed outside the station before marching down the platform. Hazel Birkenhead, long-standing volunteer and beloved member of the Llangollen railway community, joined Carolyn Thomas MS, a proud supporter of the railway, to cut the ribbon and officially open the 2025 Santa Specials.
Carolyn Thomas MS said: “The Llangollen and Corwen Railway is part of the heart and fabric of our community.
“I’ve brought my children here over the years, and now I bring my grandchildren – the magic of the Santa Specials is something truly special. It was an honour to help launch this year’s festive season.”
David Hennigan, Trust Manager of the Llangollen & Corwen Railway, added: “There’s nothing quite like the first Santa Special of the year to remind us why this railway is so loved. This morning’s departure was the result of phenomenal teamwork, dedication and festive spirit from volunteers.
“Our heartfelt thanks go to Carolyn Thomas MS, to Hazel Birkenhead for her incredible service, to Shea Ferron for his support today, and to the outstanding Llangollen Silver Band for setting the perfect tone. Above all, thank you to our wonderful volunteers who make this season possible.”
This year’s festive programme also includes the much-loved Siôn Corn Specials and the traditional Mince Pie Specials between Christmas and New Year.
Tickets for the Santa Specials are selling fast, with several services already close to full.
Book tickets here on the Llangollen Railway website
The Llangollen and Corwen Railway invites families from across Wales and beyond to join in the magic of Christmas aboard one of Britain’s most scenic heritage railways. There are a few tickets remaining for Santa Specials and Sion Corn Trains – Mince Pie Specials can be bought on Llangollen Railway’s Mince Pie Specials page.
