It’s only November, and Christmas is still 53 days away… but doesn’t it feel like Christmas starts earlier and earlier every year? I’ve seen Advent calendar pre-orders as early as July, which is a bit insane.
Have the shops around you started playing Christmas songs yet? Decorations are going up, the shelves are filling with everything Christmas-themed and festive markets are starting to open.
But November is actually a pretty good time to make the most of it. You can get some Christmas shopping done, meet up with friends or just have a day or weekend away before the December rush really starts.
So, if you fancy getting into the Christmas mood a little early, here are a few places worth visiting by train before Christmas.
Bath
Bath is worth visiting even without the Christmas Market.
You’ve got the Roman Baths, Georgian streets, independent shops and plenty of places to stop for coffee, food or cake. Probably all three if you’re there for the whole day.
If you’re going right at the end of November, Bath Christmas Market opens on 26 November this year, so that’s when things get properly festive.
Bath Spa station is close to the centre too, so you can get off the train and start exploring without having to work out another journey first.
Image credit: Lāsma Artmane | Unsplash
York
If you want to go somewhere that already feels quite Christmassy without anyone having to try too hard, York is a good shout.
You’ve got The Shambles, York Minster, loads of independent shops and plenty of pubs and cafés when you’ve had enough of walking around in the cold.
York Christmas Market also starts on 12 November this year, so you can browse the stalls, find a few presents and get some Christmas food while you’re there.
And if you come home with more bags than you intended, at least you don’t have to drive them back.
Image credit: Jeffrey Zhang | Unsplash
Durham
If Christmas markets aren’t really your thing and you just fancy getting away somewhere for the day, have a look at Durham.
The cathedral is hard to miss, there are walks along the river and plenty of cafés and pubs around the centre.
It’s a bit more relaxed than spending the whole day battling through Christmas shoppers, which might be exactly what you want before December arrives.
Just bring a decent coat. It is November after all.
Image credit: Jeffrey Zhang | Unsplash
More places to visit before Christmas
Looking for more inspiration? These destinations are all ideal for a November escape.
Stamford
Beautiful stone buildings, independent boutiques and plenty of cosy cafés.
Chester
Historic Rows, excellent shopping and seasonal events as Christmas approaches.
Winchester
A compact cathedral city with independent shops and lovely riverside walks.
Keswick
Nearest station: Penrith (then bus)
Enjoy the Lake District's stunning autumn colours before winter arrives.
Image credit: David Xeli | Unsplash
A few things before you go
November weather is unpredictable. You might leave home in sunshine and be getting absolutely soaked two hours later, so take a waterproof and wear layers.
Charge your phone too, especially if your tickets and Railcard are on it. Bring your charging cable and plug if you have room, as some trains have sockets. A power bank is also a good shout if you’re going to be out all day.
If you have some flexibility with when you travel, compare a few different days and times before booking. Travelling during the week or avoiding the busiest services might work better for you, and fares can vary too. Be a savvy traveller and have a look rather than automatically booking the first option.
And if Christmas shopping is the main purpose of the trip, maybe take an extra bag. Or two. Or three. You know what happens when you tell yourself you’re “just looking”… and by the end of the day you’re wishing you’d brought a 28-inch suitcase.
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Got a Railcard?
If you’re planning a few trips between now and Christmas, don’t forget about your Railcard either.
Depending on the Railcard you have and the tickets you’re buying, you could save up to 1/3 on eligible fares.
If you don’t already have one, have a look and see whether you’re eligible. You can buy a digital Railcard and keep it on your phone too.
Just make sure your phone is charged. Yes, I’m mentioning that again for a reason.
Before Christmas gets properly busy…
You don’t have to wait until December to start doing Christmas things.
November gives you a few weeks to get some shopping done, see the markets, catch up with people or just escape somewhere different for the day before Christmas completely takes over.
Pick somewhere you haven’t been yet, or haven’t been to in ages, grab a mate, check the fares and go.
You can worry about the rest of the Christmas shopping when you get back.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is November a good time for a UK day trip by train?
Yes. November can be a good time to get away before the Christmas rush. Christmas markets and festive events start opening in many places, and you may find some destinations a little quieter than they are in December.
Where can I go by train for a Christmas day out?
York, Bath, Winchester, Chester and Durham are all worth considering. What’s happening will depend on when you travel, so check Christmas market and event dates before you set off.
Can split ticketing make my Christmas day trip cheaper?
Sometimes. Split ticketing uses two or more tickets for different parts of the same journey and can sometimes work out cheaper than buying one through ticket. Savings aren’t guaranteed and depend on the journey, travel time and fares available.
Can I use a Railcard with split tickets?
Yes, where the individual tickets are eligible for your Railcard discount. Make sure you have the correct Railcard with you when you travel and that it’s valid for the tickets you’ve bought.
Is it cheaper to travel by train during the week?
It can be, depending on the journey and tickets available. If your plans are flexible, compare a few different days and times before booking. Travelling outside the busiest periods can also mean a more relaxed journey.
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