Get Ready for a Smoother Christmas Journey: LNER Launches New Timetable with More Trains, Seats, and Essential Travel Etiquette Tips in the UK

Published on December 9, 2025

As Christmas approaches, millions of Brits are gearing up for the busiest travel period of the year, and rail operators like London North Eastern Railway (LNER) are doing everything they can to make train journeys as smooth as possible. However, with crowded trains and busy stations, there are some crucial travel tips to keep in mind to avoid common train etiquette mistakes. From seat hogging to loud phone conversations, small acts of kindness can help ensure that everyone’s journey is a little more pleasant this festive season.

Rail Operators Making Christmas Travel Easier

While many people are preparing for a chaotic Christmas rush, LNER and other rail operators are working hard to make journeys easier for all passengers. The rail company has announced that this Christmas will see more trains, more seats, and quicker trips, allowing travellers to reach their destinations more efficiently and comfortably. This upgrade comes as part of a broader effort to improve the overall experience for passengers during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.

LNER has introduced a new timetable that begins on Sunday, December 14, which will offer additional services across its network. These changes are designed to accommodate the increasing number of people travelling for the holiday season, helping to alleviate some of the stress associated with busy train journeys.

Saturday, December 20 Predicted to Be the Busiest Day

Saturday, December 20, is expected to be the busiest day on the East Coast Main Line, with an estimated 43,000 journeys planned along the route on that day alone. While rail travel will be busy, roads are expected to see even heavier traffic, particularly on Friday and Saturday, December 19 and 20, reflecting travel trends from previous years. Last Christmas, roads were most congested near major shopping centres, such as the M60 near the Trafford Centre in Manchester, and the M25 around Heathrow Airport.

In light of this, rail companies are preparing for a surge in demand by offering more services and optimising existing ones. With a significant increase in available seats, passengers can expect a smoother travel experience, albeit during a busy time.

Common Train Etiquette Faux Pas to Avoid

As train journeys grow busier, passengers are being urged to be mindful of their fellow travellers. According to a survey commissioned by LNER, the most significant issue for passengers is the volume of noise on trains. A startling 59% of those surveyed said that talking too loudly on mobile phones is the nation’s biggest bugbear, while 53% of respondents found blaring music or videos played without headphones to be equally irritating. Other common complaints include leaving rubbish behind (49%) and being rude to staff (43%).

These small but significant issues can greatly impact the comfort of everyone on board, especially during the festive period when many people are already stressed or pressed for time. To avoid making the journey unpleasant for others, passengers are encouraged to be more considerate when using their phones, choosing to either speak softly or use headphones when listening to music or watching videos.

Offering Seats and Helping with Prams: Small Acts of Kindness

In addition to avoiding disruptive behaviour, LNER has suggested that passengers engage in small acts of kindness to improve the overall travel experience. One of the most considerate gestures is offering seats to those who may need them more, such as elderly passengers, people with disabilities, or those travelling with children. Offering a helping hand with prams or luggage is another simple way to ease the travel experience for others.

LNER’s commercial director, David Flesher, pointed out that Christmas is one of the busiest times on their route, and a few small habits can make a big difference in improving the journey for all. The rail company has stressed the importance of creating an atmosphere of goodwill during the holiday season, encouraging people to value these gestures of kindness that help others feel more comfortable during their travels.

Key Habits to Avoid During the Christmas Rush

While offering seats and helping with prams are excellent ways to contribute to a positive train environment, there are other habits passengers should be aware of to avoid aggravating fellow travellers. Among the most common complaints in the survey were seat hogging (41%), putting feet on seats (40%), and eating smelly food (37%). These habits can easily be avoided with a little thought and consideration.

For example, passengers should avoid occupying more than one seat, particularly during busy periods when every available seat is in high demand. Similarly, putting feet on seats can cause discomfort to others and should be avoided. Eating strongly scented food also tends to bother passengers, especially in confined spaces like trains. A little mindfulness around these small issues can go a long way in making everyone’s journey more pleasant.

LNER’s New Timetable: What to Expect

To prepare for the anticipated rush, LNER’s new timetable, which began on Sunday, December 14, promises to make travel smoother for passengers. With more trains scheduled throughout the day, including additional services at peak times, passengers can look forward to increased capacity and more frequent departures. This new schedule aims to reduce overcrowding and provide passengers with a more comfortable and efficient travel experience.

LNER’s commitment to providing a better holiday travel experience is evident in its focus on customer service and operational improvements. By addressing issues such as noise levels, seat availability, and overall comfort, the rail company hopes to make journeys as pleasant as possible during the busiest weeks of the year.

Planning Ahead for Christmas Travel

Whether passengers are heading to family gatherings or looking to enjoy a festive holiday break, planning ahead is key to making the most of their train journeys. With LNER and other rail operators offering enhanced services and more seats, this Christmas travel season is set to be more efficient than ever before. However, small acts of kindness and awareness of train etiquette will make a significant difference in ensuring that everyone has a pleasant experience on the rails.

As the Christmas rush intensifies, passengers are encouraged to remain patient, considerate, and prepared for the busy holiday travel period. By following these simple guidelines, travellers can help contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable journey for all.