Christmas Memory Train Returns to Offer Festive Cheer to Dementia Patients

Epping Forest District Council partners with Epping and Ongar Railway for a special festive train journey for residents with dementia.

Generic image of a vintage steam train decorated with Christmas lights, travelling through a forest at dusk.
AI

Generic image of a vintage steam train decorated with Christmas lights, travelling through a forest at dusk.

The Epping Forest District Council, in partnership with the Epping and Ongar Railway, is bringing festive cheer to local residents living with dementia through its 2026 Christmas Memory Train.

The special train journey, scheduled for next month, will depart from North Weald station and travel to Ongar station. Upon arrival at Ongar, passengers will be greeted by Father Christmas.
On the return journey to North Weald, passengers can enjoy scenic views of the forest. A light lunch, followed by a mulled drink and mince pie, will be served upon arrival back at North Weald station.
This pre-Christmas event is free of charge, but tickets must be pre-booked. It is available to individuals living with dementia or mild cognitive impairment, along with a friend, family member, or carer.
The event is organised by Epping Forest District Council’s Community Development and Wellbeing team in collaboration with the Epping and Ongar Railway.
Tickets can be booked online via www.bookinglive.com or by calling 01992 564226 between Monday and Friday, 10am to 4pm. For any enquiries, please contact Karen on 07789372196.
Based on information from the official source: Epping Forest District Council (03/11/2026)