Christmas Cracker

Pay What You Can Afford at Great Central Railway

This Christmas Day, we’ll be running three special trains departing from Loughborough Central Station at 11:30, 12:45, and 14:30, with pick-ups at Loughborough and Leicester only. Trains will depart from Leicester North at 12:05, 13:20* and 15:05.

Whether you’re seeking some company and a chance to spend the day with our railway family, or you’d like to swap the traditional Christmas walk for a festive journey, we’d love to welcome you aboard.

To help make the railway accessible to everyone at Christmas, this will be a Pay-What-You-Can-Afford Day.

Tickets will be purchased on board, and every contribution — large or small — goes directly towards supporting the railway: a not-for-profit organisation run by dedicated volunteers who work tirelessly to preserve our heritage for generations to come.

Light refreshments will be available on board on our Griddle Car, so why not enjoy a mince pie during your Christmas Day ride. The Refreshment Car will also be running with a fully stocked bar, where you can enjoy a steaming hot cup of mulled wine!

 

(Please note: Quorn & Rothley will remain closed throughout this period, Access to Leicester North Station will be possible 5 minutes before each departure) 

*Last return trip Leicester North to Loughborough and return.

Additional Information

Thank you!

Thank you for the overwhelmingly positive response to our special Christmas Day running! We are so glad to hear we can help bring extra joy and festivities to your day, whether it is to spend the day with our railway family or swap the traditional Christmas walk for a nostalgic journey.

As this is a limited service, trains may be busy at times. You might not be able to travel all day, so please be mindful and give others the chance to enjoy the experience too. If you’re able, please offer seats to those who may need them.

Even if trains are full, you can still soak up the atmosphere and enjoy the platforms and watch the trains come and go from Loughborough and Leicester

The on-board bar will be open, serving beer, spirits, soft drinks and mince pies to keep you refreshed and merry throughout the journey.

If you are unable to join us but would still like to support, you can donate here.  Every donation made on the day goes directly towards supporting the railway.

 

Christmas Cracker

GCR Reviews

Loughborough Central

Quorn & Woodhouse

Rothley Station

Leicester North