Festive magic is set to return to Swindon as the STEAM – Museum of the Great Western Railway once again transforms into a winter wonderland for its Christmas at STEAM event on Saturday 6 and Sunday 7 December 2025.
Visitors can enjoy a weekend of festive shopping, live entertainment and Christmas cheer, with over 50 artisan stalls set among the museum’s famous GWR locomotives and interactive story-telling displays.
This year’s market will showcase a wide selection of hand-crafted gifts and festive treats, including jewellery, glass artwork, photography, home décor, wooden toys, traditional games, chutneys, and luxury confectionery. Many new traders will be joining, alongside much-loved regulars.
To add to the seasonal atmosphere, the museum will feature special lighting displays and a live entertainment programme guaranteed to get visitors into the Christmas spirit.
Admission is just £3.75 for adults and £1.25 for children aged 3–15. Under-threes go free, and tickets include access to both the museum and the Christmas event.
Santa’s Story-Time Sessions
Santa Claus himself will be making a special appearance, hosting his popular story-time sessions in a cosy fireplace setting. Each child will receive a wrapped gift, with tickets priced at £10.50 per child (plus event admission). Up to two accompanying adults may attend free of charge.
The Snowman in Concert Returns
For those who can’t get enough festive magic, The Snowman in Concert with the Aldbourne Band returns for its second year on Saturday 13 December. The BAFTA Award-winning and Oscar-nominated animation will be screened alongside a live orchestral performance of its iconic score.
Tickets are £12 for adults and £8 for ages 3–18.
Festive Shopping at STEAM
The STEAM gift shop also has a wide range of Christmas gifts available, from GWR-themed books and socks to stocking fillers and railway souvenirs.
Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s Cabinet Member for Placemaking and Planning, said:
“We’re going to end the year with a big burst of joy after a packed 2025 at STEAM. The museum is putting on brilliant events, and the gift shop – always the best part – is full of present ideas. It’s been a great year at STEAM, with record visitor numbers and successful events. I can’t wait to see what the team comes up with for 2026!”
️ Tickets for Christmas at STEAM and The Snowman in Concert are available now at: www.steam-museum.org.uk
