Get ready for a magical Christmas

From traditional crafts to seasonal treats, these charming markets offer a perfect winter escape—without the hassle of driving. Whatever you're looking for, we have you covered with some of the best shopping destinations and markets along our route.

As Christmas nears, UK cities transform into magical winter wonderland. From cosy escapes to festive markets, discover the UKs most festive destinations brimming with Christmas cheer and seasonal delights with LNER.

From ice skating in Winter Wonderland in Hyde park, to enjoying a wholesome evening of listening to Christmas carols, we've found some truly magical experiences to enjoy this festive period.

Theres nothing quite like wandering through tunnels of lights and seeing incredible illuminations on a cold winter night. Take a look at our top Christmas light events along the East Coast mainline.

Whether you want to visit Father Christmas himself, or want to watch a classic Christmas tale on the stage, experience a childlike wonder with these events that are fun for all the family.

Edinburgh is the perfect place to go if you're looking for Christmas spirit and festive fun. Edinburgh hosts two enchanting Christmas carol events – Carols by Candlelight with The Robin Chapel Choir, and Einaudi's Christmas Carols by Candlelight. Edinburgh's Christmas spirit kicks off with a Light Switch-On and Festive Parade on 15 November. The festivities continue with the Christmas market opening on 15 November and running through to 4 January, offering a delightful mix of seasonal treats, gifts, and activities. And be sure to take in the views of the city on the LNER Big Wheel at East Princes Street Gardens!

Aberdeen has the UK's highest chance of a white Christmas with more than a 50% chance of snow. This year, visitors can enjoy a host of family-friendly events, including the Community Christmas Fayre where children can visit Santa’s Grotto, running from 13 November to 31 December 2025. Meanwhile, the Aberdeen Christmas Village, Curated in the Quad Market, and a Christmas Parade offer plenty of festive cheer, while the Carol Concert at Duthie Park guarantees a joyful evening.

With almost a one in three (32.8%) chance of a white Christmas, York is a magical city for celebrating the season. Enjoy six carol events, including the Annual Inclusive Carol Concert at York Minster and the Big Christmas Concert. York’s award-winning Christmas Market, running from 13 November to 21 December 2025, brings the city to life with 75 alpine chalets offering local crafts, seasonal treats, and unique gifts. A vintage carousel adds extra charm to King’s Square, making it an ideal stop for families. This is a great chance to support local businesses while soaking up the festive spirit.

Newcastle shines with a festive score of 56 as it transforms into a winter wonderland, packed with seasonal activities and family-friendly fun. Newcastle’s Christmas Market on Grey Street is a holiday favourite, offering everything from handmade gifts to festive treats like mulled wine. The city’s famous Fenwick’s Christmas Window is a not-to-be-missed attraction, drawing visitors from near and far with its enchanting animated display. Families can enjoy the Newcastle Polar Express on selected dates, an immersive train ride experience that brings the beloved Christmas story to life.

With a festive score of 55.8, Leeds is bustling with Christmas cheer. Visitors can enjoy Leeds Christmas Markets in both Millenium Square and City Square, starting 21 November right through to 21 December. For family fun, the city offers opportunities to meet Santa, go ice skating, and enjoy festive rides such as the Wheel of Light. Leeds also hosts the Christmas Adventure at Stockeld Park, including an enchanting forest and maze lit up with festive displays. Leeds hosts several light switch-on events to mark the start of the holiday season, illuminating the city centre and turning it into a winter wonderland.

Harrogate ends the list with a festive score of 55.7, making it a must-visit destination for Christmas magic! The holiday season kicks off on 5 December with the Christmas Fayre, where visitors can wander through a variety of unique gifts and indulge in seasonal treats. From 19 November, the Glow Winter Illuminations at RHS Garden Harlow Carr light up the gardens in a breathtaking display, with a family-friendly trail through the twinkling wonderland. Families can visit the Father Christmas Experience at Cedar Court Hotel, and join in a festive sing-along with the elves before meeting Father Christmas himself.

Location: Edinburgh
Dates: Select dates 20 Nov 2025 - 30 Dec 2025
Price: From £13.50 for children, from £19.00 for adults
Kid friendly? Yes

Witness Inverleith House come to life at Christmas at the Botanics. Situated in Edinburgh's Royal Botanic Garden, watch in wonder as plant themed projections light the way through this 18th century building. Once you've finished exploring the cosmic light trails, why not settle in front of the big log fire at the bar with a hot chocolate?

Location: London
Dates: 14 Nov 2025 - 4 Jan 2026
Price: From £16.00 for children, from £19.50 for adults
Kid friendly? Yes

One of the UK's most magical festive light trail returns to Kew Gardens this festive season, and this year, its bigger and better than ever. Discover brand new installations, including 3 metre high illuminated flowers, a new longer light tunnel and more. Plus you'll find plenty of seasonal treats to fuel your wonder.

Location: Newcastle
Dates: 27 Nov 2025 - 31 Dec 2025
Price: From £13.50 for children, from £19.00 for adults
Kid friendly? Yes

A mixture of twinkling illuminations, immersive visuals, original audio and dynamic choreography, this after-dark experience is the full festive package. Wander through stunning scenery before treating yourself to some festive treats in the Christmas Village.

Location: Lincoln
Dates: 21 Nov - 23 Dec 2025
Price: From £6 for children, from £11 for adults
Kid friendly? Yes

Enjoy Lincoln Castle's grounds bejewelled with festive lights and illuminated Christmas features, take a trip down Candy Cane Lane and give your warmest seasons greetings to the resident castle dragons.

Location: Bishop Auckland
Dates: 21 Nov - 31 Dec 2025
Price: From £13.25 for children, from £19.75 for adults
Kid friendly? Yes

The dazzling light trail, AGLOW, will illuminate the skies of Bishop Auckland once again this Christmas. Begin your journey at Auckland Castle and embark on a glittering 1.5-mile trail through Auckland Palace’s gardens and grounds, with surprises around every corner. AGLOW is a must-see experience for all the family, with 20 incredible light installations, Santa’s Village, festive food and warming drinks, plus new illuminations for 2024.

Location: York
Dates: 29 Nov 2025 - 5 Jan 2026
Price: Free
Kid friendly? Yes

Set amid the medieval backdrop of York Minster is the ever popular York Minster Christmas Tree Festival. Expect a stunning display of Christmas Trees decorated by local businesses, schools and charities. Plus you get to vote for your favourite in the 'best dressed tree' competition!