FAQ's
Planning your visit? Our FAQs cover everything you need to know before attending Believe! THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Experience, from ticketing and timings to what to expect on the day.
Event Info
- Dates
November 21st, 22nd, 28th, 29th
December 5th, 6th, 12th, 13th, 18th, 19th, 20th, 21st, 22nd, 23rd, 24th
- Opening Times
10am - 8pm
- Duration
This immersive experience lasts around 2 hours, you can chose to spend longer in the north pole to take in all the festivities if you wish.
- Age
While this experience is designed for children of all ages, we have put a large amount of development into all sorts of exciting sets, scenes, effects and live action that is designed to entertain audiences of all ages!
- Accessibility
The venue is wheelchair accessible.
- Price
Child: £42.95 (+booking fee)
Adult: £52.95 (+booking fee)
- Parking
Due to our city centre location we do not have a dedicated car park however there is Premier Inn which offers paid parking and other NCPs close by.
- Public Transport
The venue is located a two minute walk from the new Wharfside tram stop on the Trafford Park Line (Red Line). With trams every 12 minutes,
- Location
Victoria Warehouse, Manchester
The Experience
What is Believe THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Experience
Believe! THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Experience is a magical, multi-room immersive walkthrough event that brings the beloved story to life. Starting in the boy’s bedroom, guests step into the world of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ and move through a series of beautifully designed scenes. You’ll journey from the station, across the icy lake beneath the enchanting Northern Lights, and encounter some of the much-loved characters along the way.
Finally, you’ll arrive at the North Pole, where you’ll meet Santa Claus in person. At the North Pole, guests are treated to the first gift of Christmas, enjoy a delicious cookie and hot chocolate, sing festive songs, participate in a pyjama competition, and even write a letter to Santa in his workshop.
This heartwarming experience is a fully immersive, walk-through adventure filled with holiday magic — bringing the spirit of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ directly to you
Is this a train ride?
No, this is not a train ride like the much beloved train rides throughout the UK. This is a brand new immersive walkthrough event that brings the film to life in a whole new way. While you will see the train and board carriages along the way, you will not actually travel anywhere on a train.
How long is the experience?
Believe! THE POLAR EXPRESS™ Experience lasts about an hour, taking you on an unforgettable journey from the boy's room to the North Pole. Once you arrive at the North pole, you can stay as long as you like to enjoy the festivities, indulge in food and drinks, and fully soak in the holiday spirit.
Can photos be taken during the event?
Yes, pictures are permitted throughout the performance - please ensure you turn off your flash! There is also various offical photo opportunities throughout the experience.
How long does the event operate for?
The event runs from November through December on various dates. The best place to find the specific dates is by clicking below to be redirected to ticketmaster.
Where does the event start from?
The journey starts from O2 Victoria Warehouse in Manchester. It takes place in the room above the main stage. Don’t worry – once you arrive, there will be staff available to guide you, along with plenty of signs to help you find your way. You won't be able to miss it!
Arrival and Facilities
What happens when I arrive?
We recommend arriving at least 10 minutes before your ticket time. Upon arrival, you’ll check in at the box office where you’ll receive a wristband indicating your group. After that, feel free to visit the cloakroom, buggy park and restrooms before heading to the waiting room.
What happens if i'm late?
Unfortunately, we can't guarantee a spot if you arrive late. However, we will do our best to accommodate you and get you into a show.
What should I wear to the experience?
In the spirit of THE POLAR EXPRESS™ we recommend wearing your best pyjamas!
Is there an area to purchase food and drink?
here will be food and drink in the NORTH POLE, of course! You’ll be well taken care of during your journey.
Can I purchase Polar Express merchandise ?
Yes! In the NORTH POLE, there will be a shop where you can purchase exclusive THE POLAR EXPRESS™ merchandise. Plus, there will be photo opportunities throughout the experience to help make this a truly memorable journey.
Are there toilets throughout the experience?
There will be toilets that you can use upon arrival/while you wait to enter the experience and there are toilets available when you reach the north pole.
Accessibility
Is the experience physically demanding?
The show isn’t physically demanding. You will be invited to take part in a few activities along the way, but they are completely optional and won’t be demanding.
Is there wheelchair access?
Yes, there is wheelchair access. There is a lift, and all the sets are accessible via ramps. The carriage can accommodate one wheelchair at a time, there are wheel chair tickets available on the hour every hour throughout the day.
Is the experience suitable during pregnancy?
Yes, no part of the experience will affect you during pregnancy. However, please note that the show does use strobe effects, so if you are sensitive to that, it may not be suitable.
Are babes in arms allowed into the experience?
We wouldn’t recommend carrying babies as there’s a lot of movement, including sitting, standing and moving between rooms. Additionally, there are bright lights and heavy use of sound effects throughout the experience. If you plan to bring your little one along, it might be more ideal to use a baby carrier and utilise ear defenders.
Can I take a buggie through the experience?
Unfortunately, buggies are not allowed through the performance. However, we have a designated buggy park where you can leave them safely during the show.
Are there flashing lights and loud noises?
Yes all of our normal performances contain flashing lights and loud noises. We do offer specific relaxed performances which have little to no lighting effects and noise is kept to a minimum ensuring we cater for all needs. Please visit our booking page to view these options.
Booking Tickets
Where can I buy tickets?
All tickets for the event can be found on Ticketmaster UK. For all ticket options please click HERE
Can I buy a ticket on the door?
You can buy tickets at the door, but availability is not guaranteed. It’s best to book in advance.
Can I book large group tickets?
For large groups please book the same time slot for arrival, maximum group size possible is 35 dependant on availability. Please arrive with plenty of time to check in and our hosts will try and accommodate your group if availability permits.
Can I get a refund or exchange my tickets?
Tickets are non-refundable but they are transferable. Also if you'd like to reschedule for another day, you can do this up to a week before your assigned time
Are there group / family tickets available?
You can book tickets for specific times as a group through ticketmaster.
Are there carer tickets available?
We will be holding a relaxed performance for one day, with the possibility of adding more depending on demand. On this day, the sound will be set to a lower volume, all lights will remain on, and our actors—trained for these types of shows—will ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience.
In addition, we will run a show every hour for wheelchair users and for anyone who needs a carer. Essential carer tickets are half price. Our general rule is: for each person who needs a carer, two discounted carer tickets are allowed.
SEN Performance
What happens if the show becomes overwhelming for my child?
We provide a dedicated Quiet "Chill-Out" Zone located away from the main auditorium. This space is equipped with soft seating and sensory toys, offering a calm environment for anyone who needs a break before returning to the magic of the show.
Can we visit the theatre before the actual show date?
Yes! We offer Familiarisation Visits for guests who find new environments challenging. We can arrange a short "walk-through" while the theatre is empty so your child can get used to the sights and smells of the venue. To schedule a visit, please contact us at [email protected]
Will the staff be able to assist with specific SEN needs?
Absolutely. Our front-of-house team is specifically briefed on SEN awareness. Whether you need to find the quickest route to an exit, require extra assistance with your seating, or just need a little extra patience during the experience, our "Conductors" are here to help.
Is there a "no-shushing" policy?
Yes. During our SEN Day, we embrace a Relaxed Performance environment. This means we have a strict "no-shushing" policy—movement, vocalisations, and enthusiastic reactions are all part of the experience!