Start planning your Christmas adventure with a little helping hand from London Northwestern Railway.
With Christmas just around the corner, this year’s festivities are set to be bigger than ever. There’s no time like the present (see what we did there?) to plan what to do, and where to go, to celebrate this festive period.
To spark some ideas, we have pulled together all of this years’ must-see events, up and down its rail network. From whimsical winter wonderlands and Christmas carol sing-a-longs, to traditional wreath making masterclasses and sparkling light trails, these activities will ensure you can create magical memories with loved ones during the most wonderful time of the year.
What’s more, travelling by train during the festive period can cut out the stressful journey, and even help save money so you can do more at your chosen destination. With simple travel and budget friendly train tickets, taking the train to your festive day out this year is a no brainer! Take a look at the cheap train tickets on offer.
Christmas Events in Liverpool
The city that bought us The Beatles, Atomic Kitten, and Cilla Black was never going to let us down during the festive period. Surrounded by iconic pop culture and historic attractions including the Royal Albert Dock, you’re sure to have an action-packed festive day out in this great location.
Liverpool Christmas Market
- 12th November - 23rd of December 2022 (free entry)
German bratwurst, Yorkshire pudding wraps, and a vast array of mouth-watering street food awaits you at this year’s highly anticipated Liverpool Christmas Market. Grab a mulled wine to keep you toasty and take a stroll around the traditional market stalls. Why not choose a festive souvenir for yourself, or a gift for a loved one?
Singalong with Santa
- 17th December – 18th December 2022 (prices range from £11-£30)
Is there anything more Christmassy than a meeting with the big man himself? Grab the kids and enjoy this fabulously festive performance from The Royal Liverpool Philharmonic Orchestra and Children’s Choirs. Featuring all the classic carols you know and love, this concert invites you to sing your heart out (with the help of the experts, and of course Father Christmas) and get into the festive spirit!
90’s Xmas Bottomless Brunch
- 10th December (£39.99 per person)
What a way to start your day! It’s a known fact scousers love to have a good time, and this 90’s Xmas Bottomless Brunch in Liverpool is no exception! With three hours of non-stop Christmas and 90’s tunes to boogie along to, and 60-minutes of bottomless cocktails included within the price, this is sure to be a brunch to remember! Fancy dress is encouraged – so get those Santa hats and Rudolph antlers at the ready!
Where to stay in Liverpool on a budget?
Whether you choose to enjoy Christmas shopping at the market, or fancy sampling a few cocktails at brunch, it’s always good to have a place to lay your head just in case you don’t make the last train. Here are a few budget-friendly suggestions that LNR found:
- Travelodge Liverpool Central
- Premier Inn Liverpool City Centre (Liverpool One) hotel
- Easy Hotel Liverpool City Centre
Christmas Events in London
Christmas in the capital… this is what dreams are made of! Re-live your ‘Love Actually’ fantasy and enjoy the festively high spirits that surround the entire city during this magical time of the year. With so much going on around every corner, we can guarantee you won’t be disappointed.
Hyde Park Winter Wonderland
- 18th November 2022- 2nd January 2023 (off peak entrance £5 – peak entrance £7.50)
Do we even need to provide a description for this iconic Christmas event? Hyde Park’s Winter Wonderland is London’s ultimate family-friendly festive experience. With a jam-packed roster of events, from skating on its incredible ice rink, to taking a romantic trip to the top of its illuminated Ferris wheel, you will certainly not run out of exciting activities to enjoy. Don’t forget to visit its traditional Christmas market and take a trip to the Street Food Village to indulge in its tempting treats. We’re excited already!
Covent Garden Christmas Village
- November 2022 – January 2023 (free)
This picturesque shopping and entertainment hub in London's West End is a truly magical experience. Decorated beautifully with traditional ornaments, the Covent Garden Christmas Village offers a sprinkle of Christmas magic once an hour – snow! Whilst you browse the shops and enjoy the street performers, a flurry of snow will fall for the little ones (and big ones) to enjoy. We’re dreaming of a white Christmas, after all.
Ice Skating at Somerset House
- November 2022 – January 2023 (*accurate dates yet to be released) (prices start from £11-£17)
Surrounded by the gorgeous settings of Somerset House, this magnificent ice rink transforms the neoclassical courtyard into a wonderous winter destination, complete with a glorious 40ft Christmas tree. Don your skates, dig out those knitted gloves, and try not to fall over! We’re allowed to cling to the edges, right?
Where to stay in London on a budget?
With trains running every hour from Birmingham to London Euston, we have made it easier than ever to get to the capital for Christmas. You can get there and back comfortably within a day, however if you would like to spend the night, here are some budget-friendly hotels we have found:
Christmas Events in Birmingham
On the third day of Christmas London Northwestern Railway gave to me, four fantastically festive events to do in the heart of the second city (and of course a partridge in a pear tree). With all of the activities situated in the centre of the city, they are super easy to get to by train with Birmingham New Street being a five-minute walk, Birmingham Snow Hill a seven-minute walk and Birmingham Moor street an 11-minute walk.
Birmingham Frankfurt Christmas Market
- 4th November 2022 – 23rd December 2022 (free entry)
Also known as the largest authentic German Christmas market outside of central Europe, Birmingham’s Frankfurt Christmas Market is a must-see location this festive season. Enjoy an evening soaking up the merry atmosphere underneath the twinkling lights of Birmingham, while the German band serenades the crowds with traditional tunes, and the smell of Bratwurst fills the air. Fröhliche Weihnachten!
Christmas Carol Singalong at the Symphony hall
- 23rd December 2022 (prices start from £14.50)
This family favourite event has been raising the roof of Birmingham’s iconic Symphony Hall for over 20 years and is described as a festive party for all the family. The concert includes a joyful mix of the very best Christmas songs we all know and love, plus seasonal classics with Jonathan Cohen and Louise Dearman . You’ll be left rocking around the Christmas tree with this performance’s electric atmosphere – no silent nights here! .
Elf the Pantomime Live - Resorts World
- 22nd December – 23rd December (prices start from £28)
Elf - A Christmas Spectacular is coming to Resorts World Arena this December! The lovable Buddy the Elf is set to star in the live arena spectacular, featuring Santa’s magically flying sleigh, an audience snowball fight, an indoor snowstorm, aerial cirque stars, and giant TV screens so you don’t miss any of the spectacle. Tickets can be purchased through the Ticket Factory website.
Luna Springs - Bad Santa Bottomless Brunch
- 26th November, 3rd December, 10th December, 17th December (£49 per person)
Get ready for a day of entertainment and outrageous games with a mass sing-along, bingo, and prizes from Santa Claus himself. Enjoy 90-minutes of bottomless bubbles, selected cocktails or beer, and a tasty brunch dish in this funky venue.
Where to stay in Birmingham on a budget?
If you’re too tired from boogying the night away at the Christmas Market, or missed the last train home after a few too many steins of beer, here are a few central hotels in Birmingham that won’t break the bank:
- Premier Inn Birmingham City Centre (New St Station) hotel
- Birmingham City Centre EasyHotel
- Ibis Birmingham New Street Station
Christmas Events in Stoke on Trent
Famous for its ceramics industry, this creative town situated to the north of Birmingham hosts a whole roster of festive events during the winter months that you won’t want to miss! Adrenaline junkies are sure to be catered for with the thrill-seeking attractions available…
Winter Wonderland Stoke
- 24th November 2022 - 2nd January 2023 (entry is free)
Get yourself into the festive spirit with Stoke’s very own Winter Wonderland. Aptly named ‘The UK’s best value Christmas event’ you can experience thrilling rides, devour mouth-watering street food, and even meet a real-life reindeer at this free entry experience. Whether you choose to make a date with your partner, or take the whole family along for some festive fun, you’re sure to have an evening to remember!
Christmas at Alton Towers
- 25th November 2022 – 2nd January 2023 (prices start from £30 for a day pass)
This firm family favourite amusement park has released its event calendar for the festive period, and it has not disappointed. Immerse yourself in the delightful atmosphere of the Christmas market, take an enchanting journey through the illuminated light trail, and get your adrenaline pumping with a whizz around on the rides. Visiting the park is a must this December!
Christmas Events in Wolverhampton
Take a trip on over to this West Midlands location to officially kickstart your festive adventure. This bustling, vibrant student city has previously been named one of the best places to live in the UK, but did you know it is also a great destination to make festively fun memories with your loved ones?
Wolverhampton Grand Theatre Production of Aladdin
- 3rd December 2022 – 7th January 2023 (prices start from £17.50)
If you love a trip to the theatre during the festive season, you are in luck. The majestic Wolverhampton Grand Theatre is hosting Aladdin this year! Featuring familiar faces such as Eastenders’ Beppe Di Marco, CBeebies favourite Ben Cajee, and fresh-faced local talent Jayd’n Tyrone, this production is not one to be missed! Let the show begin!
Christmas Events in Coventry
Surrounded by the Warwickshire countryside, Coventry is a diverse and culturally rich city located at the heart of the UK. Set with a complete calendar of must-see events, take a step back in time and wander through the gorgeous cathedral lanes, lit with twinkly Christmas lights, and enjoy this wonderful location.
Coombe Abbey Winter Light Trail
- 18th November 2022 - 2nd January 2023 (prices range from £11-£19)
A timeless experience to be enjoyed by all ages. This spectacular illuminated trail, takes guests on an enchanting journey through the historic grounds of Coombe Abbey Park, full of wonderous light displays. The mile-long trail has stunning lighting elements and fabulous light play, all set to ambient music. Fun for the whole family!
Christmas Rag Wreath Masterclass at the Herbert Gallery
- 3rd December 2022 (£10)
The perfect project for 8–14-year olds to practice “reduce, reuse, recycle” – creating a bespoke door or wall wreath hanging that will last for years to come. Using strips of fabric including cotton, organza, and satin, the learning team at the Herbert gallery will guide you to create a sentimental Christmas decoration for your very own front door. Why not stay a while and explore all the gallery has to offer, and even treat yourself with a festive treat from their café?
Christmas Events in Northampton
Most famous for its shoe and leather industry, this well-connected East Midlands town has some fantastic festivities on offer this Christmas!
Winter Light Trail at Delapré Abbey
- 18th November 2022 – 2nd January 2023 (adult £15 Children £13)
Discover an array of magical light installations with a brand-new trail experience that spans over one mile throughout the stunning woodland, walled garden, and grounds of the majestic Delapré Abbey. Once you’ve enjoyed the twinkly lights, why not warm up in the Après Bar with a hot chocolate, or stop and grab some delicious festive food from one of the independent street food vendors. This enchanting experience will have all the family in the Christmas spirit.
Christmas Events in Milton Keynes
Recently receiving its very own city status, Christmas has officially arrived at the bustling centre of Milton Keynes. With super easy connections to London, this destination is a must visit stop on the network to get you and your family in the holiday spirit.
Vintage Grotto at Bletchley park
- 26th November 2022 (£10.50 plus admission charges)
Visit Father Christmas and his elves in the historical Bletchley Park Mansion’s Ballroom, once used by the codebreakers in World War Two. Your little ones will have a magical meeting with the big man himself in the festively decorated Mansion, and they’ll receive a lovely Christmas gift to take home as well – making for a magical evening all round. You better hope you’re on the nice list!
Christmas Events in Bedford
If you love an alternative day out, the historical and quirky market town of Bedford has tons of festive activities on offer to challenge the traditional norm of carol singing and Santa visits.
Christmas Paddle
- December 18th 2022 (£20 adults, £10 children)
If warm cosy fires, Christmas trees and mince pies don’t take your fancy, then maybe the Canoe Trials Christmas paddle in Bedford will be more up your street! A great way to get into the festive spirit, meet new people, and have a fabulously festive time (Christmas outfits optional), you and the family could take the festivities to a whole new level this year. Choose from canoeing, kayaking or stand-up paddleboards to kickstart your Christmas fun.
Cheap train tickets
So, with tons of festive events all within a short distance from one of our handy network stations this winter, what’s not to love? Simply pay less and do more this Christmas with London Northwestern Railway.