Pre-Arrival Info - Steam Into Christmas

Travelling to Didcot

The Railway Centre is signposted from the M4 (junction 13) and the A34, follow the white on brown signs to Didcot Railway Centre.  It can also be reached via the A34 from the M40.

There is ample car parking at the main station car park for Didcot Parkway station. The car park does not have a postcode so we do not recommend relying on a satnav once you reach the town of Didcot. Please follow the signs to Didcot Railway Centre or station car park. Alternatively, we recommend using What3Words to find us.  The road leading to the car park entrance can be located at www.what3words.com/turkey.newlywed.audio - see the What3Words website for more details of their service and to download the app.

For further information and for details of travelling by train or bus please see the How To Find Us section of our website.

Buggies & Pushchairs

Foldable buggies and pushchairs can be conveyed on the trains but will need to be completely collapsed in order to fit in the compartment in which you travel. There is limited space in luggage compartments for pushchairs.  The train rides included within your Steam Into Christmas experience minimise the distances you will need to walk on site.  

Accessibility

We warmly welcome all visitors with physical, sensory and learning disabilities and our staff will do all they can to ensure that your visit is both comfortable and enjoyable. Visitors should however be aware that the only access to the site is via the original steam age subway and an unavoidable flight of 18 steps.

Visitors with limited mobility and wheelchair users should, if you have not already done so, consult our Accessibility Page.

Other Information

Spaces at this event are limited and tickets need to be booked in advance. 

• Please arrive at the time you have booked – your Steam Into Christmas experience will take 1½ - 2 hours but you are welcome to stay longer, until we close at 4.00pm.
• Please have your original e-ticket ready to show staff. Please also bring your membership card if you’re a member.
• On arrival at Didcot Parkway Station, please show your ticket to GWR staff who will then let you through the barrier.  
• Head up the stairs to the Railway Centre entrance
• On arrival, please show your tickets and collect a Site Guide detailing the attractions on site along with a boarding pass for your reserved journey on the train to meet Father Christmas
• Our Refreshment Rooms will be serving the seasonal refreshments included in your ticket. We recommend you collect these from the Refreshment Rooms and take them with you as you explore the Engine Shed. A limited take-away menu will be on offer in addition to the seasonal refreshments
• There are outdoor picnic tables and benches around the Centre which you are welcome to use should the weather permit.
• Children must be supervised at all times
• Dogs, except assistance dogs, are not permitted at the Steam Into Christmas event