“Santa Clause is coming” and he’s coming on “The Santa Express” at Aviemore Station on the Strathspey Steam Railway.

Every Sunday, from the 4th of December, until Christmas Santa and his helpers will be on board his steam train for a run through the winter countryside to Broomhill (“Glenbogle”) and back. “The Santa Express” leaves the main line station in Aviemore at 11.30 in the morning and 2 o’clock in the afternoon. The return trip takes just under ninety minutes. While on board young passengers, up to age 12, will receive a present from Santa. Older brothers and sisters and grownups can have a hot mince pie and a drink as part of the inclusive fare. And, if you can’t catch the “Express” on a Sunday, don’t worry, it will also be running on Saturday 18th, Thursday 23rd and on Christmas Eve.

The fares for the round trip range from £2.00 for infants under 2 years of age to £8.00 for the 2 to 15 age group and £12.00 for adults. “The Santa Express” has proved to be a popular pre-Christmas event  over the years and seats are filling up. Booking forms are available from the Strathspey Railway’s office at Aviemore by ‘phone (01479-810725) or by sending a stamped addressed envelope.

The steam trains will also be running after Christmas – on 26th and 27th on Hogmanay, New Years Day and 2nd January. These “Mince Pie Specials” will leave Aviemore at 11.30 and 2.00 also Boat of Garten at 11.50, 12.40 and 2.20 and Broomhill at 12.20. The railway’s normal fares and Buffet Car service are available for these trains including a limited number of 1st Class seats at £14 which also include tea or coffee served in your compartment.