Watercress Line’s Steam Illuminations returns for festive season

The Watercress Line heritage railway is set to sparkle and shine with the return of the spectacular Steam Illuminations for the festive season – and this year it will be even brighter!

The unique Christmas light show, which is scheduled to run from 26 November 2021 through into January 2022, will feature thrilling rides on a digital LED passenger steam train, illuminated inside and out with thousands of fully controllable colour mixing lights creating flashing patterns.

Tickets are on sale now for the winter extravaganza, the UK’s only Christmas steam illuminations of its type. The railway is advising people who are eager to visit to book early for the magical experience, which this year also features a stunning giant tree of lights and snowfall over the railway’s famous bridge, which featured in the Harry Potter movies.

All the family will have fun with their LED wristbands that flash in time with the train lights, as they travel the 10-mile return journey through the Hampshire countryside, between Alresford and Alton, with static Christmas light displays and festive music all part of the enchanting journey.

Delicious refreshments will be available before boarding and all passengers will have an opportunity to see the outside of the train brightly lit up at the start, middle and end of their journey and capture wonderful memories on camera.

Watercress Line General Manager Simon Baggott said: “We are thrilled that the dazzling Steam Illuminations will be returning this year, with more colourful lights and festive features, including the exciting new giant tree of lights and snowfall over our famous Harry Potter footbridge at Ropley.

“It promises to be an incredible experience for all and a wonderful highlight of the festive season. Please book your tickets early as last year’s Steam Illuminations rides were a sell-out.

“This Watercress Line treat will give a lot of joy and magic memories to everybody, so don’t miss out.”

Tickets must be pre-booked. For more information, see the Watercress Line website.

More dates announced