You’ve made it through Christmas. You’ve eaten, unwrapped, and politely laughed at that one relative’s joke for the fifth time. Now it’s Twixmas, that strange soft-focus week where time doesn’t exist, half the country forgets what day it is, and even the dog looks unsure about the routine.
Instead of spending the week debating which leftover dessert counts as breakfast, this is the perfect moment to slip away. Trains are quieter, towns exhale after the festive rush, and a quick break can reset your brain before January arrives with its to-do lists and good intentions.
Before you pack a bag
Twixmas does come with one catch. Trains run, but not as frequently, and engineering works like to make a dramatic seasonal appearance. Always check your journey before booking and again before leaving the house, especially between Boxing Day and New Year. No one wants to discover a rail replacement bus halfway through a holiday vibe.
Once you’ve found a day that works, TrainSplit can do the heavy lifting. It checks for split tickets, applies Railcard discounts and finds the cheapest valid fares automatically. That means more of your budget goes toward fun things instead of the privilege of sitting in a moving metal tube with strangers.
Quick Twixmas trips worth the effort
York
Christmas may be over, but York still looks like a postcard. The markets are gone, yet the lights, cobbles and cosy pubs stay put. Walk the city walls, duck into a cafe, and enjoy the rare window where York feels calm.
Nearest station: York.
Pitlochry
If you want winter scenery without heading into the wilderness, Pitlochry delivers. Think forests, frosty mornings, a walk along the River Tummel and a well-earned dram by the fire. Trains from Edinburgh or Glasgow take you straight into town.
Nearest station: Pitlochry.
Tenby
Bright colours, sea air and plenty of space to breathe. Tenby is perfect if you want a total reset before the new year. Swap leftover mince pies for coastal walks and let the chaos drift away.
Nearest station: Tenby.
Norwich
Ideal for slow wandering. The lanes are full of independents, the cathedral grounds are calm, and the pace is exactly what a Twixmas break needs. It is also a quick and easy escape from London.
Nearest station: Norwich.
Smart travel tips
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Check your travel days - there are no trains on Christmas Day, and services are reduced on Boxing Day.
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Look out for planned engineering works between Christmas and New Year.
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Book ahead if you can. Split tickets often sell out on longer routes.
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Keep your plans flexible. It’s Twixmas, not a military operation.
Make it easy with TrainSplit
Whether you want coast, countryside or just somewhere that isn’t your living room, TrainSplit keeps things simple. The app finds the cheapest valid combinations automatically, including split tickets and Railcard savings. Less faff, more freedom.
Add a few finishing touches
Sort your Railcard before you travel
Buy a digital Railcard at https://rail.cards/ and have it ready in the TrainSplit app before you go.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Twixmas and why travel then?
Twixmas is the gap between Christmas and New Year when towns are quieter and fares can be lower. Trains are often less busy than early December or New Year’s Eve, which makes it ideal for a short reset. With TrainSplit you can quickly compare options and save with split tickets.
Are trains running during Twixmas?
Most operators do not run on Christmas Day and many routes have limited Boxing Day services. From 27 December services usually resume, but some lines have planned engineering works. Always check live times before you book or travel.
How do I find the cheapest Twixmas fares?
Search off-peak times, compare alternatives and let TrainSplit automatically find split tickets. Book early where possible and avoid the morning peak. A Railcard can cut a third off most adult fares.
What is split ticketing and is it allowed?
Split ticketing means buying two or more tickets for one journey while staying on the same train. It is valid under National Rail rules as long as the train calls at each split station. TrainSplit checks this for you and shows the savings.
How do I avoid disruption from engineering works?
Check for works before you book and again the day before you travel. If a line has buses or diversions, TrainSplit will show alternatives where available. Consider routes with more frequent services to keep flexibility.
Can I use a digital Railcard in the TrainSplit app?
Yes. Buy a digital Railcard and add it to your profile so discounts are applied automatically at checkout. Keep it ready on your phone when asked by staff.
Do I need seat reservations for a Twixmas trip?
They are optional on many routes but useful on longer journeys. Where reservations are available, TrainSplit will offer them during booking. If not, arrive early to choose a seat together.
What if my train is cancelled or delayed?
If you decide not to travel due to cancellation, you can claim a refund here. If you travel and are delayed, you may be due Delay Repay from the operator. Keep tickets and note times to support your claim.
Can I take luggage, prams or bikes on Twixmas trains?
Most routes allow reasonable luggage and folded prams without charge. Bike spaces are limited and may require a reservation, especially on intercity services. Check operator rules before you go.
What are good last minute destinations for Twixmas?
Look for places with frequent services and short walks from the station, such as Norwich, Bath, Cardiff, York and Stirling. Smaller coastal and market towns are calmer after Christmas and often cheaper. Use TrainSplit to compare journey times and savings in one search.