Christmas simply wouldn’t be Christmas here without a visit to the delightful West Somerset Railway. Bishops Lydeard Station is only a 5 minute drive from our Lavender Hill properties in Halse. Our two Railway properties sit right next to the WSR line and are only a 7 minute drive to Williton Station. If you’re staying at our Railway properties, these Christmas services will all pass your door, don’t forget to wave! Here’s just a few of the exciting festive events happening this Christmas!
Santa Express
Make memories to treasure for a lifetime on our Christmas family favourite – Santa Express! Step aboard the festively decorated heritage carriages for a magical ride behind a steam locomotive through the scenic Quantock Hills from Bishops Lydeard to Williton and back. A gift from Santa and refreshments will be waiting for you at your table, with the man himself visiting during the journey. The Santa Express runs at weekends throughout December, as well as the 23rd and Christmas Eve! Please be sure to book in advance as they do sell out fast!
The Panto Train (New for 2024!)
Immerse yourself in a Panto experience with flair! Join beloved Panto characters for a vibrant trip from Bishops Lydeard to Williton, complete with abundant audience interaction! . Prince Charming needs your help to find his ‘Happily Ever After’! After meeting the love of his life at the Royal Ball, just as the clock struck twelve she ran away leaving just a Crystal Slipper – so now he needs your help! He has chartered a Royal Train and needs you to re-unite him with Cinderella. Meet Buttons, the wicked step-sisters, and all of your favourite characters as you help Prince Charming on his quest… all aboard a real-life steam train! Filled with all the panto fun you can expect in a traditional pantomime, this experience is guaranteed to have something for everyone. Your adventure begins in the welcome marquee at Bishops Lydeard. Enjoy a short presentation of the characters before boarding the train. Witness the narrative come to life while seated in the cozy confines of the train. Your return journey will involve a sing along with the Panto characters, more fun and laughter! Festive fun for the whole family! Pre-book your tickets as seats for each train are limited and are expected to sell quickly.
As well as the popular festive family events we’ve already mentioned, WSR offer even more! For those who like to sample some delicious food, they offer the Sherry and Mince Pie special or a Christmas Afternoon Tea special...all aboard a steam train with countryside views that will delight you. Or if first class dining is more your thing, then you must treat yourself to a delicious Christmas meal on the WSR’s. First-Class Dining Train – the Quantock Belle, provided for you by chef, Sam le Roux. Enjoy a four-course meal, whilst travelling through the beautiful scenery of the Quantock Hills between Bishops Lydeard and Williton and back. For more info on WSR : https://www.west-somerset-railway.co.uk/events/christmas-events
Please check out our latest availability for December and why not book one of WSR’s festive events to make it a Christmas you won’t forget? https://lavenderhillholidays.co.uk/availability