Steam locomotive pulling passenger cars through green countryside beside a rural house

The Bath and Bristol Christmas Express

Thursday 10 December 2026

Celebrate the festive season with a steam-hauled journey from East Croydon to the beautiful city of Bath, with the option of continuing on to Bristol. Enjoy over four hours to soak up the Christmas atmosphere, browse Bath's famous Christmas Market or explore the many attractions of either destination.

Our train departs from East Croydon, calling at Three Bridges, Haywards Heath, Preston Park, Hove and Worthing before following the scenic West Coastway Line through historic Chichester and along the South Coast to Southampton. From there, we head via Romsey, Salisbury and Westbury, following the picturesque Avon Valley to Bath Spa station, conveniently situated in the heart of the city.


Bath is a magical place to visit at Christmas. Its renowned Christmas Market features more than 170 traditional wooden chalets selling handcrafted gifts, festive food and seasonal treats. The market surrounds the city's iconic Abbey, Roman Baths and historic Pump Room, while elegant Georgian streets, independent boutiques and excellent restaurants are all within easy walking distance. If you prefer, take an open-top sightseeing bus and discover Bath's many architectural treasures at your leisure.


Passengers wishing to travel further can remain on board to Bristol, a vibrant city with attractions including Brunel's SS Great Britain, the iconic Clifton Suspension Bridge, the historic harbourside and the fascinating M Shed museum. Bristol also offers first-class Christmas shopping, with a wide range of stores in Broadmead and Cabot Circus.


In the afternoon, our steam-hauled train departs Bristol, calling at Bath to collect returning passengers before retracing our scenic route via Salisbury, Southampton and the South Coast, returning to East Croydon in the evening after a memorable festive day out.

Please Note

    Destinations Route

    Blue screen with the text “Map to follow” in black
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    Approximate timings shown

    Station Outward Return
    East Croydon 07:00 21:50
    Three Bridges 08:00 21:15
    Haywards Heath 08:20 20:40
    Preston Park 08:30 20:10
    Hove 09:00 20:00
    Worthing 09:20 19:30
    Bath 13:00 16:00
    Bristol Temple Meads 13:20 15:30
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