The Polar Express

Yesterday we had an amazing day out with Auntie Chris, Steve and Layla at "The Polar Express" Christmas train event at Dereham Station in Norfolk. Driving up to Norfolk we had crystal clear blue skies and sun beaming down giving a very un-Christmassy feel! For some strange reason it still seems too early to be getting involved in Christmas activities - but it is only 5 weeks until Xmas.

We had heard The Polar Express was good as Lisa and David went a year or so ago, but to be honest I was a bit doubtful especially after the really good time we had at Lapland UK last year. However I have to say I was pleasantly surprised and left the event feeling completely overwhelmed by just how good the experience was. The guests on the train are thoroughly entertained from the pre-show to the moment Santa walks on the train. The costumes of the workers absolutely mimic the movie and they all stayed in character so well.

Despite the two boys being "non believers" now, Holly found the event amazing and it was worth every penny just to see her excitement and her little face as the story unfolded on the train. She loved the cookies that was given out but was't brave enough to try the hot chocolate (she still only drinks water!). Then the icing on the cake was when she saw Santa on the train and was given her reindeer bell. The crew even engaged with the adults and I was asked to name all the reindeer and then had to balance a stack of presents on my head whilst shouting "I am a believer" to the rest of the carriage.

Arrival at Dereham train station all wearing our new pyjamas.

Welcome to the Polar Express.

I'm watching you!

The magical golden ticket to ride the Polar Express.

Holly getting Sassy with Leyla as we waited for the pre-show.

This guy looked at sounded exactly like Tom Hank's character in the film.

Sat nav said "Deerham", but the station said "Dereham" - who knows, we got there though.

Walking along the smokey platform in search for our carriage called "Dancer".

Holly sharing some of her squishy ice-cream with one of the characters.

And we were all on the carriage "Dancer".

Unfortunately the carriage was in seats of 4 and we are a 5. I drew the short straw.

As soon as the train set off the characters started acting out scenes from the film.

All of the characters did an amazing job and were enjoying themselves so much which becomes infectious on the guests.

Quick selfie with me, Tina and Little H and her golden tickets.

Nice touches with Polar Express napkins.

Joshua getting his ticket stamped by the conductor.

Holly with her stamped ticket.

Out comes the hot chocolates, but will she spill any?

Steve, Chris and Layla were in seats next to us.

Holly really enjoyed the cookie.

Finally we arrived at the North Pole and saw Santa waving to us.

The whole event was priceless for this little beaut.

Holly getting really excited as Santa started working his way down the carriage seeing all the kids.

And whilst we waited they got me to perform a present balancing act.

Finally Holly met Santa and was given her reindeer bell, lets hope she doesn't have holes in her pockets.

"I believe" - yes we can hear the bell ringing.

Such a nice touch to give everyone a bell with "The Polar Express" engraved on it.