Watercress Line: Steam Illuminations returns with magnificent display

The Watercress Line’s brilliant Steam Illuminations is back for another year - and its first train left on Friday, December 29. 

The spectacular illuminated train will run until January 4, offering an unforgettable party experience under the dazzling glow of thousands of coloured LED lights. 

Watercress Line, Rosanna and Eddie on board and Eddie with Kimberley Barber on the platform (Image: Kimberley Barber) We were on one of the first trains to leave - departing from Alresford for a jaunt up to Alton and back. 

Alresford Station is beautiful at any time of year, but it really comes into its own at Christmas when it is decked out in thousands of lights. 

The platform features decorated Christmas trees, stalls selling mulled wine and hot dogs, and two giant electronic trees that sing and talk. My kids loved it.  

On arrival, we were given LED wristbands that synchronised with the train’s music. Once aboard, the night is hosted by Britain's Got Talent Voiceover Man, who coordinates singing songs and games, playing songs, telling jokes, and making the entertainment fun. 

At Alton and the trees at Alresford (Image: Kimberley Barber) We arrived at Alresford a bit earlier than departure and made the most of the excellent cafe there, buying sausage rolls and chips and stocking up on goodies to eat on the train. Ready-made treat boxes, which contain everything you'd need for a trip on the train—including neon glasses—are also available to order. 

Each station on the line has been lovingly decorated, and even Alton, the working train station with connecting modern trains where we stop for a break and for the engine to switch ends, looks beautiful. 

On our way back, we marvelled at the magical 'Snowlight Cascade', a new enchanting display of falling lights, that can be seen from the window along the tracks that look like real snow. 

The train from above (Image: Kimberley Barber) I was on board with my two children, but there were groups of every age on the same train. From grandparents with young grandchildren to party nights, the train made for a unique evening adventure, and everybody got into the spirit, singing and dancing. 

There was no Santa this year; however, that made a nice change. We didn't miss him as we were too busy having a good time. 

As we travelled through the countryside, we couldn't help but notice the scores of people who had come only to watch the train pass by. The whole train is decked out in flashing lights and really is a sight to behold. Even if you can't get a seat onboard this year, it's worth taking a trip to see it. 

Alresford station (Image: Kimberley Barber) For more information and to book your tickets, go to watercressline.co.uk/special-days/steam-illuminations/. 

Tickets cost £32 per person, children under two free, or a compartment for up to six people is £250.