Planning to travel by train over Christmas or New Year? Whether you’re heading home for Christmas Eve, exploring festive markets, or celebrating New Year’s Eve with friends, EMR is here to help you plan your journey with confidence.
During the festive period, train times across the UK change from their usual routine. Read on to find out if trains run on Christmas Day, Boxing Day, New Year’s Eve and beyond, plus travel tips and inspiration for the holiday season.
Book Early for the Best Fares - Save Up To 60% When You Book In Advance
Advance tickets for Christmas and New Year train travel are limited and can sell out quickly, especially on popular routes such as Nottingham to London or Sheffield to London. The earlier you book, the cheaper your fare is likely to be.
Here’s what to expect from East Midlands Railway services over Christmas and New Year.
| Day | Date | Summary |
| Christmas Eve | 24th December | Trains do run on Christmas Eve but generally finish earlier |
| Christmas Day | 25th December | No train services run on Christmas Day |
| Boxing Day | 26th December | No trains run on Boxing Day |
| New Years Eve | 31st December | Trains run as normal during the day but may end earlier |
| New Years Day | 1st January | Trains do run on New Years Day but may start later and run less frequently |
More detailed information can be found below.
Trains on Christmas Day (25th December)
No trains run in the UK on Christmas Day, including East Midlands Railway services. Stations will be closed, and trains will not operate.
If you need to travel for Christmas, we recommend journeying on Christmas Eve or 27th December instead.
Trains on Christmas Eve (24th December)
EMR trains run on Christmas Eve, but services will finish earlier than normal. The last trains usually depart between 7-9pm, depending on your route.
Always check your last train home before you travel, especially when enjoying the festive period celebrations.
Trains on Boxing Day (26th December)
EMR does not run trains on Boxing Day (26th December).
If you’re travelling after Christmas, plan your trip for 27th December, when services restart.
Trains on 27th December
EMR services resume on 27th December, although a revised timetable may be in place. Some routes may be affected by engineering works, and trains may be less frequent than usual or start slightly later.
Services are expected to be busier than usual, if you are travelling please allow extra time to complete your journey.
Do trains run over New Year’s?
New Year’s Eve Trains
While EMR trains run on New Year’s Eve, services will usually end earlier in the evening than on a normal day. If you’re heading to New Year’s celebrations, make sure to check your last train home in advance.
New Year’s Day Trains
A reduced service runs on New Year’s Day across some EMR routes. Trains may start later in the morning and run less frequently due to low demand and ongoing engineering works.
Essential Christmas & New Year Travel Tips
Travelling by train over the festive period can be busy, so a little planning can make all the difference. Whether you’re heading home for Christmas, visiting friends, or taking a winter break, follow these simple train travel tips to make your journey smooth and stress-free.
Check Before You Travel
Timetables may change due to engineering works and reduced services. Always check live updates before setting off.
Travel Off-Peak
If you want a quieter, more relaxed journey, aim to travel off-peak. Early morning and late evening trains tend to be less crowded - perfect if you’re carrying luggage or presents.
Use a Railcard
Railcards are valid on EMR services throughout Christmas and New Year, so don’t forget to bring yours along when you travel and you can save yourself 1/3 on train fares.
Download the EMR App
Get real-time updates, live train times and mobile tickets all in one place. It’s the easiest way to stay informed while travelling this Christmas.
Festive Train Travel FAQs
No, there are no EMR or UK rail services on Christmas Day. All stations will be closed, and trains will not operate.
Yes, EMR trains do run on Christmas Eve, but services finish earlier than normal, with the last trains usually departing in the early evening. Always check your last train time before you travel.
No, EMR does not operate on Boxing Day. The UK rail network is largely closed, so plan to travel before or after 26th December instead.
Yes, EMR services resume on 27th December, though a revised timetable may be in place and some routes could be affected by engineering works.
Yes, EMR trains run on New Year’s Eve, but services may end earlier than normal. Make sure you know your last train home.
A reduced service may run on some EMR routes on New Year’s Day. Check your journey before travelling to avoid delays or cancellations.
You can use EMR’s live journey planner or mobile app to check the latest train times and find your last available service.
Yes. Railcards are valid throughout the festive period on EMR services, helping you save on seasonal travel.
If your EMR service is disrupted, you may be entitled to compensation under our Delay Repay scheme. Find out more about Delay Repay.
Festive Travel Inspiration with EMR
Make your journey part of the celebration this festive season. From magical Christmas markets to twinkling city light displays, EMR connects you to some of the UK’s most enchanting winter destinations.
Christmas Markets by Train
Discover magical Christmas markets across the East Midlands by train this festive season. Whether it’s last-minute Christmas shopping or a weekend away, EMR makes it easy to experience the joy of the region’s best markets without the parking stress.
- Nottingham Winter Wonderland - Enjoy ice skating, mulled wine, and the festive Alpine Bar at Old Market Square.
- Leicester Christmas Market - Explore festive food, handmade gifts, and the sparkling light displays in Jubilee Square.
- London Winter Wonderland - Enjoy the Christmas market at Hyde Park, an easy commute from London St Pancras.
Christmas in London
From world-famous light displays to ice rinks and festive shows, Christmas in London is a must-see - and it’s just a short train ride away with EMR. Take a direct train from Nottingham, Leicester or Derby to London St Pancras, then step straight into the magic of the capital:
- See the iconic Oxford Street Christmas Lights sparkle above the crowds
- Skate beneath the stars at Somerset House Ice Rink
- Explore Winter Wonderland in Hyde Park, packed with rides, markets and live entertainment
- Covent Garden seasonal scene offers festive pop-ups, dramatic decorations, live performers and excellent shopping and dining options
- Catch a Christmas show in the West End, from Elf the Musical to The Nutcracker
Enjoy New Year Breaks by Rail
If you’re dreaming of a cosy countryside escape this New Year, EMR can take you there in comfort. Enjoy a slower pace in some of the Midlands’ most scenic destinations, all perfect for a winter getaway by train:
- Matlock Bath - Nestled in the Derbyshire Dales, ideal for wintry walks along the River Derwent and the Heights of Abraham cable cars.
- Bakewell - Home of the famous tart and surrounded by beautiful Peak District landscapes, perfect for a frosty weekend break.
- Norwich - A little further east, but worth the journey for its historic Christmas Market and atmospheric Cathedral.
Book A Festive Train Trip
Hopping onboard an EMR train is the perfect way to soak up the festive spirit, without worrying about traffic or parking.
Whether you’re catching the last train on Christmas Eve or travelling home after New Year’s celebrations, EMR is here to help you get there safely and comfortably.