Ticket to Christmas
The Vale of Rheidol Railway is bringing a brand-new festive adventure to Aberystwyth this year, with the launch of ‘Ticket to Christmas’ – an enchanting indoor Christmas event set against the magical backdrop of the Vale of Rheidol Railway Museum.
Essential winter track maintenance means trains won’t be running this Christmas however the Vale of Rheidol was determined to keep the festive magic alive for families in Mid Wales. The newly reimagined event ensures the celebrations continue – with a fully immersive, train-themed Christmas experience taking place entirely under cover inside the warm and welcoming museum. Visitors will also enjoy the unique atmosphere of the historic steam locomotives on display, adding an authentic railway flavour to the festivities. (Note a train ride is NOT included)
A Journey Through the North Pole
Ticket to Christmas invites families on an interactive, theatrical adventure through the North Pole – without leaving Aberystwyth! Guests will journey through four magical, fully themed activity zones, meeting colourful characters, enjoying hands-on activities, and collecting passport stamps along the way, before a grand finale meeting with Santa Claus himself.
Highlights include:
- Elf Entry & Enrolment – check in at the North Pole Passport Office, receive an elf name, and begin your adventure.
- The Toymaker’s Workshop – get creative with festive crafts and earn your “Certified Toymaker” sticker.
- The Elf Mailroom – write and send magical letters to Santa and help the elves sort their parcels.
- Claus’s Kitchen – decorate cookies, sip hot chocolate, and join in a festive singalong.
- Santa’s Grotto Finale – meet Santa in his glittering grotto, take a family photo, and receive a special Christmas gift.
Keeping the Magic on Track
“Christmas has become such a special part of our calendar, and we knew our visitors would be looking forward to a festive event this year,” said Commercial Manager Claire Stott, from the Vale of Rheidol Railway. “Although the trains won’t be running, the museum makes a perfect venue – warm, atmospheric, and full of railway heritage. With our historic locomotives as part of the backdrop, it will truly feel like a Christmas adventure on the rails.”
Ticket to Christmas runs on selected dates in December. Tickets will be limited, and early booking is advised.
Event Information
- Event Name: Ticket to Christmas – The North Pole Museum Adventure
- Venue: Vale of Rheidol Railway Museum, Aberystwyth
- Dates: 13/14th and 17th-23rd December 2025
- Tickets: Available online at www.vor.walesNote: This year’s event is museum-based only – there is no train ride included.