FAQ's
About the Experience
What is the Mount Druid Christmas Express?
The Mount Druid Christmas Express is a fully immersive, story-led Christmas adventure unlike any other. Journey aboard The Christmas Express through the enchanting Elven Wood before stepping into a magical world where you'll help the elves at Santa's bustling Present Wrapping Depot, visit the magnificent Flying Sleigh Port, discover Santa and Mrs. Claus' cosy cottage for a festive baking experience, and explore the spectacular North Pole Sorting Office, where thousands of letters from children around the world are carefully organised before passing through the glowing Magic Mail Portal. Your adventure concludes in the beautifully illuminated Santa's Village, where you can relax with delicious hot food and treats in Santa's Lodge, witness The Wonder of Christmas — a breathtaking lakeside water, light and projection spectacular filled with magical surprises — before enjoying a private, timed visit with Santa himself, where every child receives a special Christmas gift.
How long should we allow?
The Christmas Express experience lasts approximately 90 minutes from your scheduled departure time. All guests must arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled time slot to allow sufficient time for check-in. Please ensure that you are parked, on-site and at the Check-In Area inside the Barn no later than 15 minutes before your booked time. This is essential to allow our team to check everyone in and ensure the experience departs on schedule. Late arrival may result in you missing your scheduled departure.
Where is it?
Mount Druid Estate, Castletown Geoghegan, Co. Westmeath, N91 P603. Free parking is available opposite the venue in the church car park (outside ceremonies).
Dates, Times & Slots
When is it on?
Friday 13th November – Wednesday 23rd December (selected evenings and weekends as per the booking calendar). Please note that some weekend dates are unavailable due to private weddings and events taking place at Mount Druid Estate.
How do the time slots work?
Tickets are sold in 30-minute slots, with the train departing every 30 minutes.
What if we’re running late?
Due to the nature of the experience, the tram departs at your exact scheduled time, so it’s very important that you arrive 15 minutes early. If you do miss your slot, we will of course try our best to accommodate you on a later departure, however this cannot be guaranteed and is highly unlikely as most time slots are expected to be fully booked.
How many people are on each train?
Each departure is limited in capacity to 55 to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all guests.
Tickets & Pricing
- Child (24 months–12 years): €32.95
- Adult (13+): €22.95
- 1 Year Old (12–23 months): €14.95
- Baby (0–12 months): Free
- Family Deal (2 adults + 2 children): €99.95
- Carer: Free (one per guest with additional needs)
- Wheelchair User: €22.95 (limited spaces per slot)
Do babies need a ticket?
Yes. Although free, babies (0–12 months) must have a ticket as they are included in capacity numbers.
Can I swap an adult or child on a family ticket?
Family tickets are valid for two adults and two children only. Additional guests can be added by purchasing the relevant individual tickets.
Group bookings / schools
For schools, crèches, community groups, youth organisations, sports clubs, charities, additional needs groups, corporate groups, or any organised group of 30 or more, please contact
How do I book?
All tickets must be pre-booked online.
Can I change my booking?
Tickets are non-transferable and cannot be changed or amended once purchased.
What’s your refund policy?
Tickets are non-refundable, except in the event of cancellation by the event organisers.
What’s Included
- Admission to the full experience
- Woodland tram journey through Elven Wood
- Interactive stops and storytelling along the route
- Craft activity with the elves
- Letter posting at the Magic Mail Portal
- Multiple festive photo opportunities
- Timed visit to Santa’s Grotto
- A special golden ticket keepsake for each child
- A gift from Santa for each child
Optional extras (available to purchase):
- Hot food, sweet treats & refreshments
- Magical Memories Media Package (professional photos/video)
- Festive merchandise
Accessibility & Special Requirements
Is it wheelchair accessible?
Most of the experience is designed to be accessible, and we warmly welcome guests who use wheelchairs. Wheelchair places on each tram are limited. We kindly ask wheelchair users to arrive a little earlier than the recommended check-in time so our team can safely assist with boarding. If you have any specific accessibility requirements, please contact us in advance and we'll be happy to help.
Can a carer attend for free?
Yes—one complimentary carer ticket per guest with additional needs (ID may be requested).
Buggies/Prams
Buggies and prams cannot be taken onto the train. A secure holding area is provided. Once the train journey ends, strollers will be available for guests to borrow, if needed, for the short walk from the final stop to Santa’s Grotto. Strollers must be returned after use.
Sensory considerations
This experience includes music, lighting effects, occasional strobe lighting, and snow machines. We also offer a number of designated sensory-friendly sessions with adjusted sound and lighting levels to create a more comfortable environment. Please check the calendar for available times.
Photos & Add-Ons
Will we meet Santa and get a photo?
Yes—each family has a timed private visit with Santa. You are welcome to take your own photos, with the option to purchase a Magical Memories Media Package.
Can we take our own photos?
Absolutely. You are welcome to take photographs throughout the experience unless otherwise advised by a member of staff. Make sure to tag us on social media!.
Food & Drink
Is there food and drink?
Yes — a delicious selection of festive food and drinks will be available to purchase, including freshly made crepes, festive pizza slices, coffees, hot chocolates, non-alcoholic beverages, sweet treats and more.
Weather & What to Wear
Does it go ahead in bad weather?
The experience runs in most weather conditions. In the case of severe weather, we will contact you via email with updates or options.
What should we wear?
Please dress warmly and appropriately for the weather. We recommend waterproof footwear, as parts of the experience are outdoors.
Arrival, Parking & Site Info
When should we arrive?
All guests must arrive 15 minutes before their scheduled time slot to allow sufficient time for check-in. Please ensure that you are parked, on-site and at the Check-In Area inside the Barn no later than 15 minutes before your booked time. This is essential to allow our team to check everyone in and ensure the experience departs on schedule. Late arrival may result in you missing your scheduled departure. Late arrivals risk missing their train.
Parking
Free parking is available at the Chapel car park opposite the venue (outside ceremonies)
Toilets & baby changing
Facilities are available at key locations, including Santa’s Square.
Can we use the toilets before boarding?
Yes. Toilet facilities are available before boarding the train, and we recommend using them before your journey begins. Additional facilities including baby changing facilities are also available in Santa’s Village..
Other Helpful Info
Lost property
Please check with staff at Santa’s Square or email us after your visit. Our team will always do their best to help reunite lost items with their owners..
Pets
Only registered assistance dogs are permitted on site.
Smoking/Vaping
Permitted only in designated outdoor areas.
Is the experience suitable for all ages?
Yes—The Christmas Express is designed as a family-friendly experience for all ages, with magical moments for both children and adults.
Can we wear Christmas jumpers or festive outfits?
Absolutely! We encourage everyone to embrace the festive spirit. Christmas jumpers, festive hats and seasonal outfits are all welcome.
Still have a question?
If your question hasn't been answered above, please contact us at