Festive magic will be returning to Swindon following last year's sell-out Christmas at STEAM event. 

Swindon Borough Council has confirmed that the attraction will be hosting a festive extravaganza on Saturday and Sunday, December 2 and 3 which 'promises to bring the sights and sounds of Christmas'. 

Visitors will have the chance to buy festive treats and discover unique gift ideas as they step into a 'wonderland' of over 55 artisan market stalls set amidst STEAM’s fabulous story-telling displays and famous GWR locomotives.

This year, STEAM will also welcome many new traders, as well as those who are firm favourites with regular visitors. Hand-crafted items on offer range from textile gifts, greeting cards, jewellery, and cosmetics, to home furnishings, artworks, Christmas confectionery and decorations.

Festive admission prices for Christmas at STEAM are priced at £3.50 for adults and £1 for children (3-15 years). Under threes go free. Tickets include both entry to the event and the museum.

Santa will be making an appearance over the weekend with the return of his popular storytime sessions.

Children can enjoy a Christmas story and wrapped gift in an atmospheric fireplace setting for £9 per child in addition to event admission.

Up to two accompanying adults will be admitted free of charge, and do not need to purchase a Story Time ticket and each session lasts approximately 20 minutes.

A spokesperson for STEAM said: "We are delighted to announce that our Christmas extravaganza will be returning this winter!

"Find that unique gift at one of our specially selected market stalls. From hand-crafted silver jewellery, photographic prints, glass artworks and home furnishings to Christmas tree decorations, wooden toys, traditional games, Christmas tree decorations, chutneys and luxury confectionery."

Visitors are encouraged to book tickets in advance online at: www.steam-museum.org.uk

Councillor Marina Strinkovsky, Swindon Borough Council’s cabinet member for heritage, art and culture, said: “Christmas at STEAM is a truly magical experience when you can imagine chasing Santa’s sleigh in one of our engines, Polar Express-style. No wonder it’s always so popular!

"The fabulous festive atmosphere created on this special weekend makes for the perfect background to a bit of gift shopping from the many artisan stalls on offer.

“Santa himself will be popping into the museum to share his story-time sessions with the children, so there will be something for the whole family to enjoy.”