It’s gearing up to be the most wonderful time of the year again, very soon. So why not celebrate the festive season in style by heading to the many Christmas events and destinations the Liverpool City Region has to offer.

Experience the magic of Merseyrail’s off-peak tickets, offering value for money and no evening peak fares.

Recently voted the UK’s most family friendly train operator, families of up to five can hop on and off the network as much as they like with a Family Ticket for just £13. Or why not grab a bargain with a Day Saver, starting at £4.45 for one zone.

From shopping and Christmas markets to party nights and pantomimes, read on to discover great ideas for days and nights out this Christmas, all within a short walk of a Merseyrail station.

Magical markets

Experience festive cheer this Christmas at Liverpool Christmas Market
Experience festive cheer this Christmas at Liverpool's Christmas Market

Experience festive cheer this Christmas at Liverpool's Christmas Market, which returns to St George’s Plateau on November 18, 2023.

Full of delicious food stalls, sparkling fizz and unique gifts, and if that wasn’t enough, be entertained by local performers and take a trip on the big wheel, snow slide and Santa Land rides – no matter your age!

Nearest stations: Lime Street low level or Liverpool Central.

Ho,ho,ho… Santa’s grotto

Visit Father Christmas at one of the many grottos across the Liverpool city region
Visit Father Christmas at one of the many grottos across the Liverpool City Region

For the little ones, make their Christmas dreams come true by visiting Father Christmas at one of the many grottos across the Liverpool City Region.

A firm family favourite is Otterspool Adventure’s Christmas experience. Not only do the kids get to meet Santa - and receive a gift - but they can also enjoy gingerbread decorating with Mrs Claus, a ‘Make a Bear’ workshop, and a fantastic Christmas show – what more could you wish for?

Nearest station: Aigburth.

Shop until you drop

From high street to high end, Liverpool ONE will tick everything off your Christmas list
From high street to high end, Liverpool ONE will tick everything off your Christmas list

Christmas shopping doesn’t have to be stressful when you know where to shop. Find the perfect gift for your loved ones in one of Chester’s many high-street stores in The Grosvenor Shopping Centre or pretty boutiques and independent gems.

Chester is also hosting a number of exciting Christmas events, including the Christmas Parade on November 23, 2023.

From high street to high end, Liverpool ONE in the heart of the city centre will tick everything off your Christmas list and after a day of shopping you can relax and unwind in one of the many bars and restaurants or experience Apres Ski vibes at Bar Hutte.

Nearest stations: Chester and Liverpool Central.

Party time

Christmas is a time for celebrating with friends, family and work colleagues
Christmas is a time for celebrating with friends, family and work colleagues

Christmas is a time for celebrating with friends, family and work colleagues. Make sure you make the most of it by dressing to impress and heading to the best destinations in Liverpool city centre.

Whether it’s the boujee bars on Castle Street, sophisticated restaurants at Royal Albert Dock or competitive game nights in Liverpool ONE, leave the car at home this Christmas and travel by train.

Nearest station: Liverpool Central, Moorfields, James Street, Lime Street low level.

Panto performances

The Wizard of Oz, showing at the Liverpool Empire stars Ashton Merrygold and The Vivenne
The Wizard of Oz, showing at the Liverpool Empire stars Ashton Merrygold and The Vivenne

Pantos are a must during the Christmas season – cue the 'oh no, they aren’t! Oh yes, they are!' There are several pantos to enjoy across the region.

Jack and the Beanstalk at the Atkinson in Southport is sure to leave all the family grinning from ear to ear. Or why not join Dorothy, Toto and friends on an unforgettable adventure down the yellow brick road at The Wizard of Oz, showing at the Liverpool Empire.

Nearest stations: Southport/ Liverpool Lime Street Low Level or Liverpool Central.

Stocking fillers

why not pop into an Mtogo Store and pick up a unique Christmas gift
Why not pop into an Mtogo Store and pick up a unique Christmas gift

Lastly, for all train lovers, big and small, why not pop into an Mtogo Store and pick up a unique Christmas gift?

From soft and wooden toy trains to coffee cups and fridge magnets, Mtogo stores can be found at Hamilton Square, Liverpool South Parkway, Liverpool Central and Southport stations. You can also purchase online via the Merseyrail website.

Get there this Christmas with Merseyrail

For more information about Merseyrail’s Christmas timetable, tickets, and festive events around the Liverpool City Region visit the Merseyrail website.