There is no national rail service on 25 December, buses and coaches run a Sunday or holiday timetable at best, and taxis charge holiday rates. Book the transfer before you fly.

Cite this page: Atravel.uk, “Airport transfers on Christmas Day: what runs, what doesn't”, updated 12 November 2026. https://atravel.uk/festive/airport-transfers-christmas/

Rail

No national rail service runs on 25 December. On 24 and 31 December, services wind down in the evening; on 26 December and 1 January, a limited service starts late and finishes early, and some lines have no trains at all. Airport expresses are not exempt. Check the operator's own page for your date, not a journey planner summary.

Buses and coaches

Some coach routes run a holiday timetable on the 25th, usually on the main intercity corridors, and airport buses often keep a reduced service because the airport itself is open. Expect fewer departures and no late-night option.

Taxis and pre-booked transfers

Holiday surcharges are normal, and availability is thin. Pre-book a fixed-price transfer and confirm it in writing: the company, the flight number, the meeting point and the price including the surcharge. A licensed pre-booked car is usually cheaper than a rank taxi on the day.

Driving yourself

Airport car parks stay open, but some charge holiday rates and the transfer bus may run less often. Book the space in advance, note the barrier height if you have a roof box, and check the postcode for the right car park: the wrong one at a big airport is a twenty-minute mistake.

The airport hotel trick

For an early flight on the 26th or a late arrival on the 24th, an airport hotel the night before removes the whole problem. Book the room and the parking together and confirm the shuttle runs on the day you need it.

If the flight is cancelled

You are entitled to care and a replacement flight when the cause is the airline's, and to a refund or rebooking either way. Our flight compensation page sets out what UK261 covers and what weather does not.

Frequently asked questions

Do trains run on Christmas Day?

No national rail services run in the UK on 25 December. A few airport-specific services may operate; check with the operator directly.

How do I get to the airport on Christmas Day?

Taxi, pre-booked transfer, your own car with a booked car park, or an airport hotel the night before. Public transport is minimal to non-existent.

Are taxis more expensive on Christmas Day?

Usually yes, through a holiday surcharge or a higher tariff. A fixed-price pre-booked transfer avoids the surprise.

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