LNER expects record Christmas travel as 413,000 bookings made ahead of festive rush
LNER says more than 413,000 rail bookings have already been made for the Christmas period, signalling what could be one of the busiest festive seasons in recent years. Research by the operator suggests Saturday 20 December 2025 will be the peak travel date, with around 43,000 journeys currently scheduled as people make their way home for seasonal celebrations.
The study highlights how central Christmas travel is to the nation, with 55 per cent of respondents saying their trip home is the moment the festive season truly begins. It also explored what travellers value most when sharing a carriage in December, revealing top etiquette choices such as giving up seats for those who need them (64 per cent) and using headphones (53 per cent). Interestingly, 40 per cent say they don’t mind music being played out loud if it’s Christmas themed, though everyday music remains a frustration for many. Talking loudly on mobile phones topped the annoyance list (59 per cent), followed by loud non-festive music (53 per cent) and leaving rubbish behind (49 per cent).
The survey also found a more romantic side to festive rail journeys, with 51 per cent enjoying views of winter landscapes and 32 per cent appreciating Christmas displays at stations or listening to festive tunes. Nearly half of respondents (43 per cent) said travelling home makes them feel like a character in a Christmas movie.
This December brings further changes on the network, as LNER introduces a new timetable offering faster and more frequent services on its busiest corridors.
David Flesher, Commercial Director at LNER, said:
"The new timetable from LNER, launching on 14th December, marks one of the biggest and most exciting improvements to our East Coast services in recent years. With more trains, more seats, quicker journeys, and the opportunity for even more great value fares – the timetable is designed to give many customers greater flexibility and choice – during the festive season and beyond. We encourage everyone to explore the new timings for their trains, as most are changing – whether it’s an earlier train that makes your day easier, a quicker journey home, or simply a more comfortable way to travel with family and friends."
As an added incentive, customers signed up to LNER Perks will also be entered into the operator’s biggest giveaway so far, with the chance to win a First Class trip for two during December.
Image: LNER