LNER is preparing for its busiest Christmas season yet, anticipating a massive influx of passengers eager to return home or embark on festive adventures. With bookings already exceeding 120,000 and a staggering 67% increase in journeys between December 20th and 24th compared to last year, the rail operator is pulling out all the stops to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for every traveler.
To handle the expected surge, LNER has significantly boosted its staffing levels. Over 60 additional personnel have been recruited to join existing teams at stations and across the business, providing crucial support to ensure smooth operations and assist passengers. The most popular travel days are shaping up to be Saturday, December 21st, and Friday, December 27th, with the London King’s Cross to Edinburgh Waverley route expected to be particularly busy.
Passengers are urged to allow extra time for travel to the station and reaching their platforms. LNER teams will be on hand throughout the journey to provide assistance. Real-time travel updates are readily available via LNER’s online platforms, encouraging passengers to stay informed about any potential delays. And to make booking easy and affordable, there are no booking fees when reserving tickets directly through LNER.
Colette Casey, LNER’s Customer Experience Director, expressed her excitement, stating, “The Christmas period is an incredibly exciting time for LNER and our customers. Our comprehensive festive plans are designed to ensure our customers travel with confidence and enjoy the festive spirit throughout their journey. We eagerly anticipate welcoming both our returning customers and those experiencing LNER for the first time during this special season.”
Adding to the festive cheer, LNER is rolling out special festive menus from December 11th, featuring locally sourced food and drinks. First Class passengers can enjoy complimentary service, while Standard Class passengers can take advantage of the ‘Let’s Eat At Your Seat’ service, ordering a range of delicious refreshments delivered directly to their seats. LNER Perks members can even enjoy a boosted 25% discount on this at-seat service throughout December.
The festive menu boasts tempting options, including a vegetarian chestnut and stuffing ‘sausage’ roll with Christmas ketchup (for First Class), overnight oats with orange and cranberries, the returning favorite cheese and Christmas slaw sandwich, and a delightful chocolate and hazelnut dessert pot.
For those traveling with considerable luggage, LNER has partnered with Sherpr, a trusted shipping specialist, to launch the new LNER Luggage Buddy service. This courier service handles luggage collection and delivers it directly to the passenger’s final destination, relieving the stress of carrying heavy bags.
The festive spirit is already palpable across LNER stations, adorned with Christmas trees and decorations. LNER’s mascot, Eleanor, will be making appearances in stations donning her favorite Christmas jumper, adding to the festive atmosphere. An Advent calendar filled with surprises will further enhance the holiday experience, while a special Christmas edition of the new LNER podcast, ‘Routes’ (hosted by Clara Amfo), will offer festive stories from renowned guests. Children will be kept entertained with Christmas activity packs available from December 20th, filled with puzzles, stickers, and games.
LNER’s commitment to a smooth and enjoyable Christmas travel experience is evident in their comprehensive preparations. With extra staff, festive enhancements, and convenient new services, LNER is setting the stage for a truly memorable holiday journey for all.
