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After 382,000 people packed Manchester Piccadilly last year, Network Rail issues urgent travel warning and strict crowd rules for the 2026 Christmas markets
Transport for Greater Manchester and Network Rail urge visitors to take earlier trains, check live timetables, and prepare for station queuing systems as 200 stalls welcome festive crowds across ten city locations.
Train passengers travelling to Manchester for the 2026 Christmas markets are being advised to ‘think in threes’ to manage heavy crowds. The major festive event runs from Friday 6th November until Tuesday 22nd December, featuring more than 200 stalls across ten city centre locations and drawing large numbers of rail travellers.
‘Think in threes’: Network Rail travel advice during Manchester Christmas Markets
Travellers are advised to follow three key guidelines to ensure a smooth trip:
Plan ahead and verify schedules at www.nationalrail.co.uk before setting off.
Travel home earlier, as late-evening trains will be heavily congested.
Treat fellow passengers and railway staff with courtesy and respect.
During the opening weekend of the 2025 festive markets, footfall at Manchester Piccadilly exceeded 382,000 people—an 11% increase compared to 2024. With the markets driving heavy crowds across all city centre stations, queuing systems may be implemented at Piccadilly to manage boarding safely, supported by additional staff on hand to assist travellers.
Credit: Shutterstock
“We want everyone to have the smoothest journey possible if coming to and from the city by train.”
Margaret Edge, Manchester Piccadilly station manager, said: “It’s time to get into the festive spirit with Manchester’s Christmas markets back once more – and we want everyone to have the smoothest journey possible if coming to and from the city by train.
“To make your journeys as easy as possible, we’re urging travellers to follow our key travel tips – plan your journey, take earlier trains home as later ones will be very busy, and please respect our teams and fellow passengers. There will be extra staff in place across the network to provide advice and information and help keep passengers safe throughout the festive season.”
Credit: Network Rail
Travel advice from Transport for Greater Manchester during Christmas markets
Danny Vaughan, Transport for Greater Manchester chief network officer, said: “Christmas is the busiest and most exciting time of the year and Greater Manchester is ready to welcome everyone with open arms. Public transport is the reliable and affordable way to make the most of everything the city region offers – whether heading out to enjoy the markets, shops, restaurants, sporting and music events or festive attractions.
Credit: TfGM
“We’re boosting Bee Network bus and tram services, opening Park and Rides and working closely with rail operators across the region to give you more ways to get around. If you are heading into or around the region this Christmas, plan your joined-up journey using the Bee Network app or website.”
