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Get ready for a magical Christmas

Get ready for a magical Christmas

Looking for some fun ways to get into the festive spirit? Then look no further, as we've gathered our top things to do this Christmas.

Get into the festive spirit

Its never too early to start planning some fun-filled activities to do this Christmas, whether that's watching a cheeky panto or getting some presents ticked off your Christmas shopping list, we've got you covered with some great locations all along our route.

We all know that Christmas time is one of the busiest times of year for train travel. Be sure to plan ahead with tickets on sale for the Christmas and New Years period now, and read our top travel tips for this Christmas.

Click the categories below to discover our unmissable things to do this Christmas.

Christmas markets and shopping
From traditional crafts to seasonal treats, these charming markets offer a perfect winter escape—without the hassle of driving. Whatever you're looking for, we have you covered with some of the best shopping destinations and markets along our route.
Christmas markets
The UK's most festive cities
As Christmas nears, UK cities transform into magical winter wonderland. From cosy escapes to festive markets, discover the UKs most festive destinations brimming with Christmas cheer and seasonal delights with LNER.
Most festive cities
Festive experiences
From ice skating in Winter Wonderland in Hyde park, to enjoying a wholesome evening of listening to Christmas carols, we've found some truly magical experiences to enjoy this festive period.
Festive experiences
Christmas lights
Theres nothing quite like wandering through tunnels of lights and seeing incredible illuminations on a cold winter night. Take a look at our top Christmas light events along the East Coast mainline.
Christmas lights
Festive family fun
Whether you want to visit Father Christmas himself, or want to watch a classic Christmas tale on the stage, experience a childlike wonder with these events that are fun for all the family.
Festive family fun
Group Christmas events
Christmas isn't just for children. Take a look at our top picks for groups along our route. Create the perfect Christmas day out for you and your friends.
Group Christmas events
Theater & Panto
Christmas is the best time of year to go watch a classic panto in the theater. From retellings of a classic fairytale, to a rock and roll musical extravaganza, we've got you covered with the best shows along our route this winter.
Theater & Panto
LNER's Christmas map
We've created a handy map of some of the amazing festive activities that are taking place along our route this Christmas. Check out some of the best events and activities along our route that will be sure to get you in the festive spirit.
LNER's Christmas map

Christmas markets and shopping
From traditional crafts to seasonal treats, these charming markets offer a perfect winter escape—without the hassle of driving. Whatever you're looking for, we have you covered with some of the best shopping destinations and markets along our route.
Christmas markets
The UK's most festive cities
As Christmas nears, UK cities transform into magical winter wonderland. From cosy escapes to festive markets, discover the UKs most festive destinations brimming with Christmas cheer and seasonal delights with LNER.
Most festive cities
Festive experiences
From ice skating in Winter Wonderland in Hyde park, to enjoying a wholesome evening of listening to Christmas carols, we've found some truly magical experiences to enjoy this festive period.
Festive experiences
Christmas lights
Theres nothing quite like wandering through tunnels of lights and seeing incredible illuminations on a cold winter night. Take a look at our top Christmas light events along the East Coast mainline.
Christmas lights
Festive family fun
Whether you want to visit Father Christmas himself, or want to watch a classic Christmas tale on the stage, experience a childlike wonder with these events that are fun for all the family.
Festive family fun
Group Christmas events
Christmas isn't just for children. Take a look at our top picks for groups along our route. Create the perfect Christmas day out for you and your friends.
Group Christmas events
Theater & Panto
Christmas is the best time of year to go watch a classic panto in the theater. From retellings of a classic fairytale, to a rock and roll musical extravaganza, we've got you covered with the best shows along our route this winter.
Theater & Panto
LNER's Christmas map
We've created a handy map of some of the amazing festive activities that are taking place along our route this Christmas. Check out some of the best events and activities along our route that will be sure to get you in the festive spirit.
LNER's Christmas map

Christmas markets and shopping

It wouldn't be Christmas without a traditional Christmas market. With festive treats, deliciously spiced mulled wine, and some of the UK's best craft goods, you'll find all you need to get into the Christmassy mood. So wrap up warm, grab your friends and family, and shop till you drop this winter.

The UK’s most festive destinations

As the festive season approaches, towns and cities across the UK are bursting into winter wonderlands, each brimming with their own unique Christmas charm.

Whether you’re dreaming of a cosy escape or looking to soak up some holiday spirit, we’ve found the destinations filled with the most festive cheer!

4. Birmingham
Birmingham made its way onto our Christmassy destinations with a score of 62.1. The city offers a range of holiday delights, including the free University Carol Service hosted by the University of Birmingham Music Society and featuring the University Upper Voices. On 13 November 2024, the city’s Christmas Lights Switch-On in Cathedral Square kicks off a night of festive entertainment. From 1 November the renowned Frankfurt Market brings a taste of Germany to Birmingham, offering seasonal treats, gifts, and festive vibes right through to 24 December.
5. Chester
Chester offers a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for celebrating the season, earning it a festive score of 59.6. This year's highlight is sure to be the XXL Christmas Pop Carol Concert at Chester Cathedral, featuring up to 200 choir voices, soul-stirring gospel renditions, and a large-scale stage production complete with state-of-the-art lighting and sound. Chester's streets will be lit up from 15 November, with even more sparkle during the 12 Days of Christmas Parade on 21 November. Soak up the festive cheer at the Chester Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival from the end of November, where trees decorated by local schools and businesses line the cloisters in aid of local charities.
6. Bath
Bath is perfect for a cosy Christmas getaway, earning the city a festive score of 59.1. The city’s holiday spirit shines through with carol performances – including Unseen’s Carols and the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols at Bath Abbey – setting the tone for the season. Families will enjoy fun and creative activities including the Christmas Card Making Workshop at TOWN+HOUSE, where you can craft unique cards for your loved ones, adding a personal touch to your holiday celebrations. The Bath Christmas Market, running from 28 November to 15 December, brings over 170 stalls to the heart of the city, offering unique gifts and delicious winter treats.
7. Stockport
Scoring 58.6 out of 100, Stockport is a gem perfect for families looking to make the most of the season. The Stockport Christmas Market and Lights Switch-On event, held on 21 November, is a must-see. Former Lioness captain and I’m a Celebrity winner, Jill Scott, will perform the ceremonial Christmas lights switch-on. Families can visit Santa’s Grotto, including the chance to feed Santa’s reindeer! Visitors can enjoy a variety of festive events such as The Bramall Hall Elf Trail starting 15 November, where you will be delighted by the festive decor and elf antics. Take a visit to Father Christmas at John Lewis where kids can have storytime with Santa himself.
8. Newcastle
Newcastle shines with a festive score of 56 as it transforms into a winter wonderland, packed with seasonal activities and family-friendly fun. Newcastle’s Christmas Market on Grey Street is a holiday favourite, offering everything from handmade gifts to festive treats like mulled wine. The city’s famous Fenwick’s Christmas Window is a not-to-be-missed attraction, drawing visitors from near and far with its enchanting animated display. Families can enjoy the Newcastle Polar Express on selected dates, an immersive train ride experience that brings the beloved Christmas story to life.
Trains to Newcastle
9. Leeds
With a festive score of 55.8, Leeds is bustling with Christmas cheer. Visitors can enjoy Leeds Christmas Markets in both Millenium Square and City Square, starting 22 November right through to 22 December. For family fun, the city offers opportunities to meet Santa, go ice skating, and enjoy festive rides such as the Wheel of Light. Leeds also hosts the Christmas Adventure at Stockeld Park, including an enchanting forest and maze lit up with festive displays. Leeds hosts several light switch-on events to mark the start of the holiday season, illuminating the city centre and turning it into a winter wonderland.
Trains to Leeds
10. Harrogate
Harrogate ends the list with a festive score of 55.7, making it a must-visit destination for Christmas magic! The holiday season kicks off on 29 November with the Christmas Fayre, where visitors can wander through a variety of unique gifts and indulge in seasonal treats. From 21 November, the Glow Winter Illuminations at RHS Garden Harlow Carr light up the gardens in a breathtaking display, with a family-friendly trail through the twinkling wonderland. Families can visit the Father Christmas Experience at Cedar Court Hotel, and join in a festive sing-along with the elves before meeting Father Christmas himself.
Trains to Harrogate

1. Edinburgh
Edinburgh is the perfect place to go if you're looking for Christmas spirit and festive fun. Edinburgh hosts two enchanting Christmas carol events – Carols by Candlelight with The Robin Chapel Choir, and Einaudi's Christmas Carols by Candlelight. Edinburgh's Christmas spirit kicks off with a Light Switch-On and Festive Parade on 9 November. The festivities continue with the Christmas market opening on 15 November and running through to 4 January, offering a delightful mix of seasonal treats, gifts, and activities. And be sure to take in the views of the city on the LNER Big Wheel at East Princes Street Gardens!
Trains to Edinburgh
2. Aberdeen
Aberdeen has the UK's highest chance of a white Christmas with more than a 50% chance of snow. This year, visitors can enjoy a host of family-friendly events, including the Community Christmas Fayre where children can visit Santa’s Grotto and receive a free gift. The city also introduces a new Christmas Light-Up Trail, running from Thursday 14 November to Tuesday 31 December 2024. Meanwhile, the Aberdeen Christmas Village, Curated in the Quad Market, and a Christmas Parade offer plenty of festive cheer, while the Carol Concert at Duthie Park guarantees a joyful evening.
Trains to Aberdeen
3. York
With almost a one in three (32.8%) chance of a white Christmas, York is a magical city for celebrating the season. Enjoy six carol events, including the Annual Inclusive Carol Concert at York Minster and the Big Christmas Concert. York’s award-winning Christmas Market, running from 14 November to 22 December 2024, brings the city to life with 75 alpine chalets offering local crafts, seasonal treats, and unique gifts. A vintage carousel adds extra charm to King’s Square, making it an ideal stop for families. This is a great chance to support local businesses while soaking up the festive spirit.
Trains to York
4. Birmingham
Birmingham made its way onto our Christmassy destinations with a score of 62.1. The city offers a range of holiday delights, including the free University Carol Service hosted by the University of Birmingham Music Society and featuring the University Upper Voices. On 13 November 2024, the city’s Christmas Lights Switch-On in Cathedral Square kicks off a night of festive entertainment. From 1 November the renowned Frankfurt Market brings a taste of Germany to Birmingham, offering seasonal treats, gifts, and festive vibes right through to 24 December.
5. Chester
Chester offers a festive atmosphere that’s perfect for celebrating the season, earning it a festive score of 59.6. This year's highlight is sure to be the XXL Christmas Pop Carol Concert at Chester Cathedral, featuring up to 200 choir voices, soul-stirring gospel renditions, and a large-scale stage production complete with state-of-the-art lighting and sound. Chester's streets will be lit up from 15 November, with even more sparkle during the 12 Days of Christmas Parade on 21 November. Soak up the festive cheer at the Chester Cathedral Christmas Tree Festival from the end of November, where trees decorated by local schools and businesses line the cloisters in aid of local charities.
6. Bath
Bath is perfect for a cosy Christmas getaway, earning the city a festive score of 59.1. The city’s holiday spirit shines through with carol performances – including Unseen’s Carols and the Festival of Nine Lessons and Carols at Bath Abbey – setting the tone for the season. Families will enjoy fun and creative activities including the Christmas Card Making Workshop at TOWN+HOUSE, where you can craft unique cards for your loved ones, adding a personal touch to your holiday celebrations. The Bath Christmas Market, running from 28 November to 15 December, brings over 170 stalls to the heart of the city, offering unique gifts and delicious winter treats.
7. Stockport
Scoring 58.6 out of 100, Stockport is a gem perfect for families looking to make the most of the season. The Stockport Christmas Market and Lights Switch-On event, held on 21 November, is a must-see. Former Lioness captain and I’m a Celebrity winner, Jill Scott, will perform the ceremonial Christmas lights switch-on. Families can visit Santa’s Grotto, including the chance to feed Santa’s reindeer! Visitors can enjoy a variety of festive events such as The Bramall Hall Elf Trail starting 15 November, where you will be delighted by the festive decor and elf antics. Take a visit to Father Christmas at John Lewis where kids can have storytime with Santa himself.
8. Newcastle
Newcastle shines with a festive score of 56 as it transforms into a winter wonderland, packed with seasonal activities and family-friendly fun. Newcastle’s Christmas Market on Grey Street is a holiday favourite, offering everything from handmade gifts to festive treats like mulled wine. The city’s famous Fenwick’s Christmas Window is a not-to-be-missed attraction, drawing visitors from near and far with its enchanting animated display. Families can enjoy the Newcastle Polar Express on selected dates, an immersive train ride experience that brings the beloved Christmas story to life.
Trains to Newcastle
9. Leeds
With a festive score of 55.8, Leeds is bustling with Christmas cheer. Visitors can enjoy Leeds Christmas Markets in both Millenium Square and City Square, starting 22 November right through to 22 December. For family fun, the city offers opportunities to meet Santa, go ice skating, and enjoy festive rides such as the Wheel of Light. Leeds also hosts the Christmas Adventure at Stockeld Park, including an enchanting forest and maze lit up with festive displays. Leeds hosts several light switch-on events to mark the start of the holiday season, illuminating the city centre and turning it into a winter wonderland.
Trains to Leeds
10. Harrogate
Harrogate ends the list with a festive score of 55.7, making it a must-visit destination for Christmas magic! The holiday season kicks off on 29 November with the Christmas Fayre, where visitors can wander through a variety of unique gifts and indulge in seasonal treats. From 21 November, the Glow Winter Illuminations at RHS Garden Harlow Carr light up the gardens in a breathtaking display, with a family-friendly trail through the twinkling wonderland. Families can visit the Father Christmas Experience at Cedar Court Hotel, and join in a festive sing-along with the elves before meeting Father Christmas himself.
Trains to Harrogate

To put together this list, we looked at each town and city’s chance of a white Christmas based on snowfall on Christmas Day since 1960, the number of carol events, Christmas light switch-on dates, popular Christmas-related search trends, and the duration of the local Christmas market.

We then adjusted these figures by population and calculated a final score for each destination.

Edinburgh (66.8/100)
Aberdeen (64.4/100)
York (64.1/100)
Birmingham (62.1/100)
Chester (59.6/100)
Bath (59.1/100)
Stockport (58.6/100)
Newcastle upon Tyne (56.0/100)
Leeds (55.8/100)
Harrogate (55.7/100)

*All data is correct as of the 6th of November 2024.

Festive experiences

Get into the spirit of Christmas with an immersive festive experience. From ice skating, Christmas carols and more, make this Christmas unfogettable with a magical experience unlike any other. Great fun for all the family.

Christmas lights

Is there anything more magical than the twinkling lights on a wintery night? Explore spectacular illuminations, sparkling exhibitions, and an unbeatable festive atmosphere with a festive light display this Christmas season.

Festive family fun

Experience the magic of Christmas with a childlike wonder once more. From meeting Father Christmas on a steam train, to watching a classic family favourite tale, discover activities for the whole family along the East Coast mainline.

Group Christmas events

Maybe you're a bit too old to visit Santa's grotto. That's fine, we've still got you covered. Explore the best group activities on offer this Christmas period. From discos to outdoor skating, there are plenty of mates days out to be had. Remember, if you're travelling in a group of 3-9 people you can save 20% on train tickets as well!

Theatre & Panto

Theres nothing quite like the magic of the big stage at Christmas time. From musical productions and fairytail reenactments, to traditional pantos, discover an unmissable stage experience this Christmas period.

m_d_lner-tickets-on-sale-for-christmas-travel-resized

LNER's festive map

We've created a handy map of some of the amazing festive activities that are taking place along our route this Christmas. So whether you're looking for the best Christmas Markets to do some shopping, a fun filled day of ice skating for all the family or a festive night out, we've got you covered this Christmas.

View our festive map

Top tips for travelling at Christmas 2025

We all know that Christmastime is one of the busiest times of year for train travel. Be sure to plan ahead with tickets on sale for the Christmas and New Years period now.

Christmas travel tips

Get ready for a magical Christmas

Get into the festive spirit

Christmas markets and shopping​

The UK's most festive cities​

Festive experiences​

Christmas lights​

Festive family fun​

Group Christmas events​

Theater & Panto​

LNER's Christmas map​

Christmas markets and shopping​

The UK's most festive cities​

Festive experiences​

Christmas lights​

Festive family fun​

Group Christmas events​

Theater & Panto​

LNER's Christmas map​

Christmas markets and shopping

Edinburgh Christmas Market​

York Christmas Market​

Christmas Town at Bishop Auckland​

Glasgow Christmas Market​

Leeds Christmas Market​

Leicester Square Christmas Market​

Skipton Christmas Market​

Edinburgh Christmas Market​

York Christmas Market​

Christmas Town at Bishop Auckland​

Glasgow Christmas Market​

Leeds Christmas Market​

Leicester Square Christmas Market​

Skipton Christmas Market​

The UK’s most festive destinations

1. Edinburgh​

2. Aberdeen​

3. York​

4. Birmingham

5. Chester

6. Bath

7. Stockport

8. Newcastle​

9. Leeds​

10. Harrogate​

1. Edinburgh​

2. Aberdeen​

3. York​

4. Birmingham

5. Chester

6. Bath

7. Stockport

8. Newcastle​

9. Leeds​

10. Harrogate​

Festive experiences

Go for a spin in Edinburgh​

Christmas carols at the Royal Albert Hall​

Yorkshire's Winter Wonderland presented by HARIBO​

Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park​

Christmas at the Palace​

Go for a spin in Edinburgh​

Christmas carols at the Royal Albert Hall​

Yorkshire's Winter Wonderland presented by HARIBO​

Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park​

Christmas at the Palace​

Christmas lights

Christmas at the Botanics​

Christmas at Kew​

Newcastle Northern Lights​

Lincoln Castle Illuminated​

AGLOW Bishop Auckland​

York Minster Tree Festival​

Christmas at the Botanics​

Christmas at Kew​

Newcastle Northern Lights​

Lincoln Castle Illuminated​

AGLOW Bishop Auckland​

York Minster Tree Festival​

Festive family fun

Santa Express​

Christmas markets and shopping

The UK's most festive cities

Festive experiences

Christmas lights

Festive family fun

Group Christmas events

Theater & Panto

LNER's Christmas map

Christmas markets and shopping

The UK's most festive cities

Festive experiences

Christmas lights

Festive family fun

Group Christmas events

Theater & Panto

LNER's Christmas map

Edinburgh Christmas Market

York Christmas Market

Christmas Town at Bishop Auckland

Glasgow Christmas Market

Leeds Christmas Market

Leicester Square Christmas Market

Skipton Christmas Market

Edinburgh Christmas Market

York Christmas Market

Christmas Town at Bishop Auckland

Glasgow Christmas Market

Leeds Christmas Market

Leicester Square Christmas Market

Skipton Christmas Market

1. Edinburgh

2. Aberdeen

3. York

8. Newcastle

9. Leeds

10. Harrogate

1. Edinburgh

2. Aberdeen

3. York

8. Newcastle

9. Leeds

10. Harrogate

Go for a spin in Edinburgh

Christmas carols at the Royal Albert Hall

Yorkshire's Winter Wonderland presented by HARIBO

Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park

Christmas at the Palace

Go for a spin in Edinburgh

Christmas carols at the Royal Albert Hall

Yorkshire's Winter Wonderland presented by HARIBO

Winter Wonderland, Hyde Park

Christmas at the Palace

Christmas at the Botanics

Christmas at Kew

Newcastle Northern Lights

Lincoln Castle Illuminated

AGLOW Bishop Auckland

York Minster Tree Festival

Christmas at the Botanics

Christmas at Kew

Newcastle Northern Lights

Lincoln Castle Illuminated

AGLOW Bishop Auckland

York Minster Tree Festival

Santa Express

The Snowman Tour

Newcastle Winter Fairy Trail

Santa Express

The Snowman Tour

Newcastle Winter Fairy Trail

Disco Party Nights

The Ski Lodge at The Montague on the Gardens

Laugh Out Loud Comedy Christmas Club

Disco Party Nights

The Ski Lodge at The Montague on the Gardens

Laugh Out Loud Comedy Christmas Club

Cinderella

Jack and the Beanstalk: The Rock 'n' Roll Panto

The Little Mermaid

Cinderella