It's an intriguing idea – rather than visiting Santa in a shopping centre or a department store, you climb aboard The Pullman Restaurant, two former carriages of the Orient Express, at Glenlo Abbey Hotel in Galway, for a festive afternoon tea with Mrs Claus, followed by a visit to Santa Claus on the Glenlo Christmas Express. Finish with a viewing of The Polar Express in the Abbey movie suite. Available Saturday and Sunday in December in the run-up to Christmas. Price €30 per adult and €20 per child, two servings at 1pm and 4pm. Pre-booking essential.

www.glenloabbeyhotel.ie