Seasonal Special Services

December 2002

December is always a busy time for train services on the West Somerset Railway.

Santa Steam Specials November 30, December 1, 7, 8, 14, 15, 21, 22, 23, 24
Take a steam train ride through the beautiful Somerset countryside and visit Santa in his Station Grotto - a fabulous occasion for all the family and a great start to Christmas. Trains run from Bishops Lydeard to Crowcombe Heathfield, from Minehead to Blue Anchor, and - new this year - from Williton & Watchet to Blue Anchor. All fares are inclusive of mince pies and seasonal refreshments for adults, and sweets and presents for the children. For full details of our Santa Steam Specials click here.
Dunster by Candlelight December 6 & 7
Beat the inevitable traffic jams and journey by special train to this special evening as the medieval village of Dunster extinguishes all its electric light, bans the motor car from its streets and basks in the glow of yesteryear. For full details of WSR train services to/from Dunster for ‘Dunster by Candlelight’ please click here.
The Carol Train December 9
Always a popular part of the Christmas season on the West Somerset Railway, the Carol Train runs a round trip from Minehead to Williton and back - and, for the first time this year, a second train will also run from Bishops Lydeard to Williton and return. On its journey the train stops at each station on route where carols are sung on the station platforms. The return journey from is non-stop. The Carol Train leaves Minehead at 7pm and returns by 9.30pm - and departs Bishops Lydeard at 7.15pm, returning by 9.45pm.
On the train there is a buffet car serving refreshments, some with a yuletide theme! Music for the carols is provided by local musicians. Please bring a torch with you!
The Carol train always sells out well in advance, so early booking is strongly recommended to avoid disappointment.
Tickets cost Ł5.00 for Adults/Senior Citizens and Ł2.50 for Children.
How to book
You can book tickets in advance in the following ways:-
- By telephone, using your Credit Card. Please ring 01643 704996, 9am-4pm daily.
- By completing the Booking Form on our leaflet giving full details of our Santa Steam Specials. Please e-mail us if you would like us to send you a booking form in the post.
- In person at Minehead Station (9am-4pm, Monday-Friday).
The Christmas “Coastal Belle” Dining Train December 14
Why not have a thoroughly nostalgic seasonal night out with Christmas Dinner on our “Coastal Belle” dining train…? On the evening of Saturday 14 December the “Coastal Belle” will leave Minehead at 7pm for a round trip to Williton. On your journey you will be able to enjoy a three course Christmas Dinner.
The inclusive cost of the journey and the meal is only Ł28.00 per person.
To avoid disappointment early booking is strongly recommended.
How to book
You can book tickets in advance in the following ways:-
- By telephone, using your Credit Card. Please ring 01643 704996, 9am-4pm daily.
- By completing the Booking Form on our leaflet giving full details of our Santa Steam Specials. Please e-mail us if you would like us to send you a booking form in the post.
- In person at Minehead Station (9am-4pm, Monday-Friday).
Winter Train Services Daily December 27 - January 2 2003
Stuck for something to do after Christmas…? Why not take a journey on the WSR in winter - enjoy the scenery from the warmth of your coach…! Pre-booking is not required on these services. For details of the timetable click here. (Please note that Doniford Halt is closed during the winter months).

Updated: 1 May 2002