Tickets now on sale for the Santa Specials train rides at the Kent and East Sussex Railway in Tenterden

A festive train ride that has been part of Kent’s Christmas calendar for more than 50 years has announced details for this year’s event.

Tickets to the Santa Specials, which take place aboard the Kent and East Sussex Railway in Tenterden, are on sale now and can be booked online here.

The enchanting family experience has been up and running since the 1970s and has become so popular over the years that it often sells out.

Passengers will step aboard an authentic steam train and travel on a 75-minute journey through the Kent countryside.

While on the train, families will receive an age-appropriate gift hand-delivered by Santa and have the chance to take a group photo.

There will also be complimentary hot drinks, including mulled wine for the adults, and Santa’s elves will be sprinkling festive cheer through the carriages.

Your ticket will also give you access to the Winter Wonderland marquee at Tenterden station and unlimited rides on the vintage gallopers.

Ticket options also include three upgrades that range from free mince pies to unlimited prosecco.

The Bronze package offers visitors a refreshment pack with mince pies, chocolate bars and soft drinks and an on-board magician to keep children entertained.

The Silver package includes a meet-and-greet with Santa’s elves, Jingle and Sparkle, a complimentary trolley service for adults with alcoholic and non-alcoholic drinks and chocolate for children.

For those who opt for the Gold package, there will also be a chance to spend quality time with the elves, with the addition of unlimited prosecco or beer, festive cakes, luxury warm mince pies, special chocolates and fruit, all served at your seats.

The Santa Specials train rides run every weekend from Saturday, November 29 to Sunday, December 21. There will also be trains on Tuesday, December 23 and Christmas Eve.