A popular vintage steam train experience where you can ride aboard historic carriages and meet Father Christmas is returning to London this Christmas.

Run by railway experience company Steam Dreams Rail Co, the Santa Steam Express is set to return for its fourth year running this Christmas, on December 20 and December 21.

The Santa Steam Express is set to return for its fourth year running this Christmas.The Santa Steam Express is set to return for its fourth year running this Christmas. (Image: Steam Dreams) The trip will begin at London Victoria, where you will climb aboard vintage carriages dating back to the 60s to have a festive drink, before the children get stuck into some Christmas activities and then meet the man in red himself.

These trips will be hauled by two iconic steam locomotives, the 70000 Britannia or 34046 Braunton, dating back over 70 years.

The trip will begin at London Victoria, where you will climb aboard vintage carriages dating back to the 60s.The trip will begin at London Victoria, where you will climb aboard vintage carriages dating back to the 60s. (Image: Steam Dreams) The trip, lasting 90 minutes, will take a tour through south London passing Chiswick, before heading towards Barnes and Clapham Junction, the exact route has not yet been confirmed although Steam Dreams Rail Co did confirm the route is likely to be similar to previous years.

The trip will also be joined by other festive characters such as Mrs Claus, along with their festive helpers who will hand out a festive gift to every child on board the train.

The trip will also be joined by other festive characters such as Mrs Claus, along with their festive helpers.The trip will also be joined by other festive characters such as Mrs Claus, along with their festive helpers. (Image: Steam Dreams) The Santa Steam Express will depart four times a day on December 20 and December 21, with slots running at 09.30am, 11:45am, 15:30pm and 18:15pm, with bookings starting from £55 per person in Coach Class.

But if you want something more private you can opt to book a private carriage instead.

The Santa Steam Express will depart four times a day on December 20 and December 21.The Santa Steam Express will depart four times a day on December 20 and December 21. (Image: Steam Dreams) Head of Communications, Juliet Soley, commented: “We are delighted to be bringing the magic of steam and Santa to London Victoria for the fourth year.

“It is a joy to be part of the Christmas countdown traditions of many families and we look forward to welcoming guests on board this year to create special memories.

“With only two dates this year, we encourage guests’ book early once tickets are available.”