Our favourite way to survive Twixmas (Hint: It involves a coach)

That’s where we come in.

At National Express, we’ve been getting people around the UK for decades, and Twixmas is one of our favourite times to do it. Fewer crowds, better value, and destinations that feel festive without demanding emotional commitment.

Here are some of our top UK places to visit between Christmas and New Year. All reachable with us, and all doable without overspending.

Manchester: Reliable, interesting, and never boring

We run frequent services into Manchester, which is useful because there’s always something happening, even when nobody’s quite sure what day it is.

What we like doing there:

• Wandering the Northern Quarter, where browsing shops is an acceptable full day activity.
  
  
• Visiting the Science and Industry Museum (free, and refreshingly practical).
  
  
• Sitting in a café long enough to forget about inboxes.
  
  

It’s a city that rewards curiosity and comfortable shoes.

Edinburgh: Dramatic views, minimal effort

Edinburgh takes winter seriously, which we respect. Between Christmas and Hogmanay, it’s atmospheric without being overwhelming.

What we recommend:

• A walk along the Royal Mile, at a pace dictated entirely by how cold you feel.
  
  
• Arthur’s Seat for views that justify the climb.
  
  
• The National Museum of Scotland, which is free and impressively distracting.
  

We’ll get you there without the fuss of airports or the expense of a last-minute train.

Bath: Proof that smaller can be better

Bath is ideal if Twixmas calls for calm rather than chaos. It’s compact, handsome, and very good at making a short break feel considered.

Worth your time:

• The Royal Crescent (free to admire, very good for photos).
  
  
• Long walks and longer coffees.
  
  
• Independent shops that don’t rush you out the door.
  
  

Our services make it easy to arrive relaxed, which feels appropriate here.

Liverpool: Culture without the price tag

Liverpool offers a lot without asking much in return. We like that.

Low cost highlights:

• Albert Dock and Tate Liverpool (free and unpretentious).
  
  
• Waterfront walks that look good in any weather.
  
  
• Food that’s generous in both portion and price.
  
  

It’s lively, friendly, and refreshingly straightforward, much like our routes into the city.

Cardiff: A quiet overachiever

Cardiff tends to surprise people, which is part of the charm. It’s easy to get around, easy on the wallet, and excellent at Twixmas pacing.

Our suggestions:

• Cardiff Castle, right in the centre, because efficiency matters.
  
  
• The Victorian arcades for browsing, warming up, and spending sensibly.
  
  
• Cardiff Bay for a change of scenery and some fresh air.
  
  

We’ll get you there simply, and leave you to enjoy it.

Why we like Twixmas travel

• Fares are better.
  
  
• Destinations are calmer.
  
  
• Everyone needs a break from their own kitchen.
  

With us, travelling during Twixmas is straightforward. Affordable fares, comfortable seats, and routes across the UK that let you go somewhere without making a big deal of it.

No airports. No parking. No overthinking.

Just a seat, a window, and a few days away before January notices you.

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