A Christmas train ride in Oxfordshire has been named as one of the UK’s best in the Times top 15 festive rail experiences for the second year in a row.

Cholsey and Wallingford Railway, a volunteer-run tourist train line set up in 1861, runs themed train rides for customers including the "Santa Express" in the winter.

The heritage organisation wrote on Facebook: “We are incredibly proud to have been included in "The Times" Top 15 Santa Trains for the second year in a row.

“This is an incredible recognition of all the volunteers who put time and effort into the railway throughout the year.”

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The Santa Express experience includes a meet and greet with Father Christmas and entertainment from his elves, and every child gets a present.

Father Christmas will be on board tooFather Christmas will be on board too (Image: Cholsey and Wallingford Railway) Before boarding, adults will enjoy a festive drink and mince pie, and children will get a soft drink and sweet treat from the railway’s Christmas market.

The route is a round trip from Wallingford station through scenic countryside, which takes about an hour.

The railway also runs seasonal events and themed train rides throughout the year, and the busy Christmas period also offers a “wine train” with a tasting, and a “New Year’s Day mince pie special”.

Tickets are still available for The Santa Express, which begins running on November 23 until Christmas. Book on the organisation’s website: www.cholsey-wallingford-railway.com

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