Great Western Railway is gearing up for one of Bath’s busiest weekends of the year, rolling out a significantly enhanced service for the opening Saturday of the city’s renowned Christmas Market. The operator will run a train roughly every five minutes, with 21 extra services added to accommodate the surge in festive visitors and provide nearly 7,550 additional seats.

Despite the strengthened timetable, GWR is warning travellers that the station will be extremely busy during peak periods. Crowds are expected between 1000 and 1400, and again from 1600 to 2000. To keep passengers safe and maintain orderly boarding, a queueing system will be in operation throughout the late afternoon and evening, even with 55 trains scheduled to depart from 1600 to 2034.

The day has been structured to move shoppers as efficiently as possible, with 11 extra trains running before 1300 to bring visitors into the city, and 10 more services after 1600 to help them make the return journey. GWR is encouraging travellers to use quieter times if they can, recommending early morning trips before 1000, later evening travel after 2000 or visiting the market on weekdays instead of weekends.

Oana Apetroaie, Bath Spa Station Manager, said:

“Bath’s Christmas Market is absolutely magical, and we’re thrilled to welcome thousands of visitors to the city. We’re running as many trains as we can, but with the popularity of the market some queuing is inevitable at the busiest times. Our friendly staff will be on hand to keep everyone moving safely, and for a more comfortable journey we'd encourage visitors to travel outside peak hours if it’s possible. This year we’re delighted to welcome back Bath Abbey Choir on Friday 5 December from 1800, spreading Christmas cheer outside the station while people queue. It's all part of making the journey as festive as the destination!”

GWR has also adjusted dwell times on several services and made additional timetable changes to support the increased demand, urging passengers to check their journey before travelling.

The Bath Christmas Market runs from Thursday 27 November to Sunday 14 December 2025.

Image: Great Western Railway