As the festive season approaches, travel plans are often at the top of everyone’s to-do list. Whether you’re heading home to spend Christmas with loved ones or gearing up for a New Year adventure, planning ahead is essential to avoid stress.

Here’s everything you need to know about travelling over the Christmas and New Year period, along with some handy tips for planning your 2025 journeys.

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Christmas Travel: What You Need to Know

Will there be trains on Christmas Day?

No train services will operate across the UK on Christmas Day. If you need to travel on this date, you’ll need to plan alternative transport in advance.

What about Boxing Day? Are trains running?

Train services on Boxing Day are extremely limited, with only a small number of routes operating, such as some airport transfers (e.g., the Stansted Express). Be sure to check schedules early and book tickets as soon as possible, as these services tend to fill up quickly.

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New Year Travel: What to Expect

Can I travel by train on New Year’s Eve?

Yes, most trains will run on New Year’s Eve. However, services may end earlier than usual, so it’s important to check the timetable and plan your journey to avoid being stranded after celebrations.

What should I know about New Year’s Day travel?

On New Year’s Day, trains typically start later than normal, and some routes may run reduced services. If you’re planning an early start, confirm your travel arrangements in advance to avoid delays.

Get Ahead for New Year Travel

Heading out for New Year celebrations or planning to kick off 2025 with a trip? Book early to secure the best fares and avoid disappointment. Trains tend to be busier during this time, so make sure to book your tickets in advance to avoid missing out.

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Looking Ahead to 2025: Find Inspiration for Your Next Adventure

The new year is a fresh start, and what better way to kick it off than by planning your next journey? Here are some ideas to inspire your 2025 travels:

• Scenic Train Journeys: Explore beautiful destinations such as Edinburgh, where you can enjoy stunning views of the Firth of Forth and the iconic Edinburgh Castle. Alternatively, take the train to Fort William for access to the breathtaking landscapes of the Scottish Highlands, or travel along the East Coast Main Line for views of the coastline as you pass through Newcastle, York, and Durham.

• Reconnect with Loved Ones: Plan a trip to bustling cities like Manchester Piccadilly, Glasgow Central, or Bristol Temple Meads to meet up with friends and family. These stations are well-connected, making it easy to reach loved ones across the country.

• Discover Hidden Gems: Take the train to charming destinations like York, with its medieval streets and famous Minster, or Bath Spa, known for its Roman Baths and Georgian architecture. For a quieter retreat, head to Windermere in the Lake District or Berwick-upon-Tweed, a historic coastal town near the Scottish border.

• Eco-Friendly Resolutions: Make 2025 the year you embrace sustainable travel. Catch a train to Brighton for a seaside escape, or visit Cambridge to explore its picturesque colleges and parks. With trains being one of the most environmentally friendly ways to travel, you can reduce your carbon footprint while seeing more of the UK.

By choosing to travel by train in 2025, you’re not just getting from A to B—you’re helping reduce your carbon footprint and contributing to a greener planet.

• Special Events and Festivities: Plan your trip around key events in 2025, such as Jane Austen’s 250th birthday celebrations. Visit Winchester, Bath Spa, or Didcot Parkway (for Steventon, Austen’s birthplace) to dive into the festivities and explore locations tied to her life and legacy.

Wherever you choose to go, a little forward planning can help you save time, money, and stress—leaving you free to enjoy every moment of the journey. Let us help you make your 2025 travel plans a reality!

More Splits, More Savings

When it comes to saving money on train travel, splitting your tickets can be a game-changer. Our platform helps you identify these split ticket options, which other sites often miss. By splitting your tickets into separate segments, you can uncover cheaper fares that may not be available through standard routes.

In some cases, you might even find alternative journeys that are slower but far more affordable. These routes, which may involve taking trains that are overtaken by faster services, offer significant savings without compromising too much on your travel time. So, why pay more for a direct train when you could save by opting for a slightly longer, but cheaper, route?

More Splits, More Savings—the more you split, the more you save.

Top Tips for a Smooth Journey

Here are some quick tips to ensure your travel plans go off without a hitch:

• Plan ahead: Check timetables early and book tickets in advance, as holiday travel can get busy.

• Avoid peak times: Off-peak travel is often cheaper and less crowded—perfect for a more relaxing journey.

• Save more with split ticketing: Our platform helps you find the cheapest fares by splitting your tickets. You might also find that slower, alternative routes offer even more savings. Sometimes, choosing a less direct or longer journey can be the key to saving money while still reaching your destination.

• Pack wisely: Snacks, entertainment, and phone chargers can make a long trip more enjoyable.

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Book Your Tickets Today

Don’t leave your travel plans to chance—secure your tickets now for post-Christmas travel and get ready for a smooth start to the New Year.

Wishing you safe and happy travels this festive season! 🎄