Are you looking for a winter’s day out? Beyond the bridge, over the River Mole in Leatherhead sits a miniature railway waiting to take you to Santa’s grotto this Christmas. This unique way to meet Father Christmas is magical for the whole family; the railway loops round the frosty field stopping off at the grotto which is adorned with fairy lights that can be seen as the steam train drives over the stream and past the trees.
The experience is enjoyable for everyone; children collect a carrot for Rudolph on the platform and once at Santa’s grotto they hand it to Santa and make their promises of good behaviour in return for a present and a lolly pop. After the invigorating journey back, warm up in the cosy cafe with a cup of tea and a mince pie or stand on the bridge and wave to the engines as they pass with a cloud of white smoke.
I asked annual visitor Allison Grainger how she first found out about the “Santa Specials” and she replied that her family was invited by a neighbour who was a steam train enthusiast: “When we first went as a family we would take a picnic and spend the afternoon jumping on and off the miniature trains. The children loved not only the rides but the little bridge, the ticket office and the gnomes and animals that you see as you journey round the field. Over time, more family and friends joined us and when the Santa Specials began it was the start of a yearly Christmas event.”
The whistles from the platform and hoots from the trains are carried through the December air to be heard as a signal of excitement for those waiting their turn. So, wrap up warm, bring the festive cheer and all aboard!
Zia Eustace, Tolworth Girls' School
