Thomas Land Christmas special at Drayton Manor

Nov 9 2008

Drayton Manor is looking forwards to a special Christmas this year with the re-opening of the hugely popular Thomas Land attraction.

The park's Sodor attraction will be transformed into a winter wonderland for visitors with snow covering the whole of Thomas Land which is home to a whole host of themed family rides based around the much loved Thomas The Tank Engine tales.

There will be entertainment in Thomas Land, with singers performing to the crowds and the Fat Controller will be meeting and greeting the young and young at heart as they enjoy a magical day out for all the family.

Bobo the Clown will be busy face painting using Christmas inspired themes and Mrs Kindley will be making the Fat Controller’s Christmas pudding in the fun filled Christmas capers. There is also the enchanting valley of the trees for visitors to see as they take a ride on Thomas the Tank Engine and Percy

Thomas Land will be open from Saturday 22nd November to Sunday 4th January 2009, treating mums, dads and youngsters to a magical Christmas extravaganza.

It's not all about Thomas Land though - the park is also holding Santa’s Magical Adventure – Live on Stage

Throughout the special Christmas opening there will be plenty of family fun on offer, including a new live stage show called Santa’s Magical Adventure starring Santa himself.

The show, held in the heated Big Top theatre, follows a young girl who has written a very long Christmas list for Santa, but she is taken on a journey to discover the real meaning of Christmas. Along the way she meets a number of characters including a toy soldier and toy doll who help guide her along her journey.

An ice rink will be centre stage in the show, along with white miniature Shetland ponies and performers, professional ice skaters and dancers will entertain the crowds. The real star of the show is Santa himself who has taken time out from his busy schedule and has signed a contract with Drayton Manor to appear this year at the park.

Overall the show lasts for 30 minutes and culminates in all children under the age of nine receiving a free gift from Santa.

The Zoo will also be open so visitors can wish the animals a Merry Christmas too so although the other areas of the park are not open there is plenty to do for families wishing to celebrate the festive season at the park.

Tickets for the event are limited so the park advises people to book in advance as it is expected to be very busy!

The main theme park will be closed for the winter season and will re-open on Saturday 21st March 2009.

Thomas Land opening dates:

Saturday 22nd November to Tuesday 23rd December and Saturday 27th December to Sunday 4th January 2009.

Prices:

Aged 4 and over £16.00

Aged 2-3 £11.00

Under 2 FREE

Grandee (60+) £13.50

Disabled and helper £15.00 (each)

Groups of 4+ £12.50 per person

As a special incentive, those booking in advance will receive £1 off all individual tickets. Due to high demand, visitors are advised to pre-book to avoid disappointment by calling 0844 472 1960 or online – www.draytonmanor.co.uk