East Kent Railway Santa Experience
As a local photographer based in Kent, I’m always on the lookout for family-friendly gems to explore—and the Santa experience at East Kent Railway in Shepherdswell was nothing short of magical! With festive cheer, twinkling lights, and a touch of Christmas nostalgia, it made for the perfect day out with my family. Plus, it’s a wonderful reminder of how much our local businesses and attractions offer, especially during the holiday season.
From the moment we arrived, we were greeted by the friendly volunteers who made us feel instantly at home. Their enthusiasm and dedication were contagious—they truly kept the magic alive for everyone.
The highlight of the day was hopping aboard a heritage train decked out in full festive glory. The kids were buzzing with excitement as we chugged along the scenic tracks. Our journey included a trip through a “magic portal” (a tunnel), with the elves entertaining us throughout the ride. There was plenty of laughter, sweets for the little ones, and tinsel galore.
As the train carried us through the countryside, we were treated to Christmas songs. It didn’t take long for the entire carriage to join in—cue a passionate family rendition of Let It Go from Frozen! The kids loved taking an 'elfie' with the mischievous elves, and even the adults couldn’t resist getting caught up in the festive fun - I may have been the loudest singer on the train!
Once the train journey ended, it was time for the main event: the Santa grotto. And let me tell you, this wasn’t your ordinary Santa meet-and-greet. Nestled in a charming, festive setting, Santa spent quality time with each child, chatting with them and making sure every moment felt special. His authentic look and kind demeanour made it feel like we’d met the real Father Christmas himself!
The entire experience felt like a perfect blend of nostalgia and festive wonder. The East Kent Railway team has created something truly special here—a magical alternative to a traditional Santa grotto, ideal for families looking to make cherished memories.
As a photographer, I couldn’t help but notice how beautifully photogenic the whole day was. Between the twinkling fairy lights, the vintage train, and the joyous expressions on my kids’ faces, it was a visual treat and a reminder of how special moments like these are.
If you’re in Kent and looking for a unique festive outing, I can’t recommend this enough. It’s a wonderful way to support a local treasure while enjoying some Christmas magic with your loved ones.
A big thank you to the volunteers at East Kent Railway for making it such a memorable experience. It’s local businesses and attractions like this that truly bring our community to life—and as a family photographer, I’m always eager to celebrate and showcase these gems.
Stay tuned for more posts as I explore Kent and shine a spotlight on all the incredible experiences our county has to offer. And if you’re a business owner looking to capture your space or event through photography, I’d love to help bring your vision to life. Let’s chat!
