7,550 extra seats, but expect queues at peak times.
Great Western Railway is pulling out all the stops for Bath’s world-famous Christmas Market, running a train every five minutes this coming opening Saturday.
With 21 additional trains laid on specifically for Christmas shoppers, there will be nearly 7,550 extra seats on top of the normal Saturday service.
But there’s a catch: trains will be really busy between 1000 – 1400, and 1600 – 2000, and despite 55 trains serving the station from 1600 a queueing system will be in place to help everyone board safely.
The numbers that matter
- 11 extra trains before 1300, getting you to the market
- 10 extra trains after 1600, getting you home
- 55 trains depart after 1600 (until 2034) – that’s one every 5 minutes
- 7,550 additional seats across the day
Beat the queues: Quieter times to travel:
- Early morning (before 1000)
- Later evening (after 2000)
- Weekdays instead of weekends
Oana Apetroaie, Bath Spa Station Manager, said:
“Bath’s Christmas Market is absolutely magical, and we’re thrilled to welcome thousands of visitors to the city. We’re running as many trains as we can, but with the popularity of the market some queuing is inevitable at the busiest times.
“Our friendly staff will be on hand to keep everyone moving safely, and for a more comfortable journey we’d encourage visitors to travel outside peak hours if it’s possible.
“This year we’re delighted to welcome back Bath Abbey Choir on Friday 5 December from 1800, spreading Christmas cheer outside the station while people queue. It’s all part of making the journey as festive as the destination!”
Several rail services will also have extended dwell times at key locations and there will be some other alterations to normal timetabled services as a result; so please check before you travel.
Bath Christmas Market runs Thursday 27 November to Sunday 14 December 2025.
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