Published on
November 6, 2025
National Express is set to operate 45 coach journeys from Birmingham on Christmas Day 2025, offering affordable and convenient travel across the UK during the festive season. With rail services suspended for the holiday period, National Express is stepping up to meet the growing demand for Christmas Day travel.
The UK’s largest coach operator has revealed that bookings for Birmingham services are already up 50% compared to last year, reflecting a significant rise in demand for long-distance travel during the holiday season. Whether you’re traveling to see family, heading out for a festive event, or enjoying a Christmas getaway, National Express offers an extensive network of services to 25 destinations across the UK.
A Convenient Christmas Travel Solution
With rail services largely paused on Christmas Day, National Express is providing a key alternative for travelers across the UK. The coach company is operating nine routes from Birmingham, which will serve 25 destinations, including major cities such as London, Manchester, Liverpool, and Cardiff. These services offer a reliable, affordable, and stress-free travel option for those looking to get around the UK during one of the busiest travel periods of the year.
National Express’ services will operate between 10:00 AM and 4:00 PM on Christmas Day, with some routes continuing throughout the day. Passengers will enjoy a comfortable journey with amenities such as leather reclining seats, USB power sockets, and free Wi-Fi on selected services. The convenience of direct connections means no transfers, making it easier for holidaymakers and commuters to reach their destinations.
Destinations Served by National Express on Christmas Day
Here is the list of the 25 destinations you can travel to via National Express on Christmas Day from Birmingham:
- Bristol
- Cardiff
- Carlisle
- Cheltenham
- Chester
- Coventry
- Edinburgh
- Glasgow
- Heathrow Airport
- Lancaster
- Leeds
- Leicester
- Liverpool
- London
- Luton Airport
- Manchester
- Milton Keynes
- Newcastle
- Newport
- Northampton
- Nottingham
- Oxford
- Preston
- Sheffield
- Wolverhampton
These routes cover the most popular Christmas destinations and are designed to make it easier for families, tourists, and business travelers to reach their desired locations during the holiday season.
Benefits for Business and Leisure Travelers
National Express’ Christmas Day services provide a valuable solution for both business travelers and tourists. For business professionals, traveling on Christmas Day can be a necessity to meet deadlines, attend urgent meetings, or take care of last-minute business. The convenience of direct routes between key business cities, including London, Manchester, and Birmingham, ensures a smooth and efficient journey.
For leisure travelers, this is a perfect opportunity to visit family or attend special events. Whether it’s enjoying a Christmas dinner with loved ones or traveling to a Christmas market, National Express makes holiday travel easier, offering a cost-effective alternative to more expensive travel options like taxis or flights.
Family-Friendly Offers: Kids Travel Free
In addition to its reliable Christmas Day services, National Express has extended its popular Kids Go Free offer until January 4, 2026. This promotion allows families to save on festive travel, making it an ideal choice for those traveling with children during the holidays. Families can take advantage of affordable fares, starting from just £6 per adult for one-way journeys, with kids traveling free.
The family-friendly environment on board ensures a comfortable and enjoyable experience for all passengers. With a generous free luggage allowance of 20kg per person, travelers can easily bring gifts, suitcases, or holiday essentials along for the journey.
Planning Your Christmas Day Travel
For those looking to travel on Christmas Day, it’s essential to plan ahead to avoid any last-minute issues. National Express recommends booking tickets as early as possible to guarantee your seat, as demand is expected to increase due to the suspension of rail services and the popularity of the festive season.
With services operating on Christmas Day, passengers can take advantage of affordable travel, comfortable coaches, and family-friendly options to make the most of their holiday season.
Step-by-Step Guide for Booking Christmas Day Coaches with National Express
- Visit the National Express Website: Go to the official National Express website to explore available routes and destinations from Birmingham.
- Check Availability: Select your desired travel date (Christmas Day, December 25) and check for available services to your destination.
- Book in Advance: Secure your seat by booking online early to take advantage of the best prices and guarantee a spot on your preferred service.
- Choose Your Fare: National Express offers different fare options, including standard, premium, and family fares, to suit your budget and travel needs.
- Prepare for Your Journey: Review the details of your journey, including departure times, the amenities available on your coach, and the estimated travel time.
Quick Tips for Travelers Using National Express on Christmas Day
- Book Early: Due to high demand, especially on Christmas Day, make sure to book tickets early to guarantee your seat and avoid last-minute hassles.
- Check Timetables: Be sure to check the latest schedules and route information on the National Express website to ensure there are no last-minute changes to your service.
- Arrive Early: Arriving at least 15-20 minutes before departure will help ensure a smooth check-in process.
- Pack Light: While the luggage allowance is generous, keep in mind that buses can get crowded, so try to pack as efficiently as possible.
- Take Advantage of Family Deals: If you’re traveling with children, don’t forget to use the Kids Go Free offer to save on the cost of your trip.
Key Points to Remember:
- National Express will operate 45 journeys from Birmingham to 25 destinations across the UK on Christmas Day.
- Fares start from £6 for one-way trips, with a free kids travel offer available until January 4, 2026.
- Advance booking is recommended to secure the best prices and guarantee a seat.
- Services are available to key destinations including London, Manchester, Liverpool, Cardiff, and Newcastle.
- National Express offers a family-friendly experience with comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and ample luggage allowances.
Conclusion
The return of National Express services on Christmas Day provides a much-needed solution for holiday travel in the UK. With affordable fares, convenient routes, and family-friendly amenities, it offers a stress-free alternative for both business travelers and tourists looking to make the most of the festive season. Whether you’re visiting family, attending events, or exploring new destinations, National Express ensures a smooth journey this Christmas, with all the comforts you need to enjoy the ride.
Disclaimer: The Attached Image in This Article is AI Generated
