The only negative, they kept saying throughout the whole thing that we're going to the North Pole, and as a kid I would be expecting more than a gift shop when we got off. The shop at the end was perfectly acceptable and not too over priced. I've seen some reviews where it says the hot chocolate is barely warm!? It was the perfect temperature, when you first get it, cooler than you'd make yourself but they have to cater for the kids! As with all hot drinks if you leave it it cools down but if you drink it straight away it's lovely! Got off the train about 9.20ish.
The hot chocolate and cookie were really nice. The santa was brilliant too passing out the bells and chatting to the kids, no he doesn't stay with them for long but it was just enough I felt. The staff were fantastic, really engaging with the kids and really enthusiastic. There is also a food van and a miniature railway which the kids loved. There is an indoor part where there is kids entertainment, but it was way too hot so we didn't stay. When you get there there isn't much to do while you wait, I can imagine that bit isn't great if it's raining or freezing as it's predominantly outdoors. Our booking was at 8 and we got there at 7, which was just right as it gave us time to get parked and onto the bus to the railway. Got to say, I don't know what all the negative feedback is about! We had an amazing time. Just home from our first time on the Polar Express (14/12/21).