There is the chance to catch the train for a Christmas family day out this weekend.

The popular Groudle Glen Santa train will depart for the ’north pole’ over this weekend, where kids get the chance to meet with Father Christmas after a gentle trip through the picturesque glen, courtesy of the little steam engine ’Sealion’ and sister engine ’Brown Bear’.

The tiny railway, which is run by a dedicated team of volunteers and enthusiasts is celebrating its 125 anniversary this year.

Tickets for the Santa trains are £8 each and are available by online booking only, with limited spaces left. There will also be the popular Mince Pie train service, running throughout Boxing Day, for all those wanting to unwind after the festive celebrations.

Alex Brindley, from the Groudle Glen Railway, said that they have made improvements to this year’s event.

’ Every year we seek to improve the experience in different ways with enhanced refreshments, new decorations and props this year, even down to new compostable ’elf’ cups for refreshments, which are all included in the price, along with the present from Santa,’ said Alex.

’The station itself has been undergoing a renovation for the 125th year with new platform and completely new trackwork funded by the Scheinberg family and the Manx Lottery Trust.’

Tickets are available to book online at www.ggr.org.uk