As London's winter attractions sparkle into life, a unique festive experience awaits just a three-hour journey north. The historic town of Beverley in East Yorkshire is preparing to host its renowned Festival of Christmas, a spectacular one-day event that has been a cornerstone of the region's festive calendar for nearly three decades.
What Makes Beverley's Festival Special?
Organised by the East Riding of Yorkshire Council, the Festival of Christmas holds the distinguished title of the UK's largest one-day festive market. This beloved event, now in its 29th year, transforms the ancient streets into a winter wonderland, a tradition dating back to 1995.
In 2025, the magic will unfold on Sunday, December 14, with festivities running from 10am until 4pm. The scale is immense, featuring over 120 stalls offering everything from artisan crafts and unique gifts to delicious local food. The event's popularity is undeniable, attracting an estimated 50,000 visitors annually.
Family Fun and Festive Highlights
This is far more than just a shopping trip. The festival offers a full day of entertainment for all ages. Families can enjoy traditional fairground rides, meet Santa Claus, and watch thrilling birds of prey displays. The air will be filled with the sound of festive music from local brass bands, and a giant snow globe provides the perfect photo opportunity.
One of the event's most breathtaking features is the country's largest trail of real fir trees, displayed at the magnificent Gothic Beverley Minster. Each tree is uniquely decorated by local community groups, schools, and organisations, creating a truly immersive and community-spirited spectacle. It's an experience best savoured with a warm cup of mulled wine or hot chocolate in hand.
It is worth noting that the 2024 event was unfortunately cancelled due to severe weather warnings from Storm Darragh, making the 2025 celebration highly anticipated.
Planning Your Festive Day Trip
Reaching this festive gem from London is straightforward. The easiest route is by rail, with direct services from King's Cross station to Beverley. The journey takes approximately three hours, typically requiring a quick change at Doncaster. According to Trainline, a return ticket for travel in December costs around £71.
For those preferring to drive, the journey by road will take roughly four hours, depending on your starting point in the capital. With its enchanting atmosphere and array of attractions, Beverley's Festival of Christmas offers an unmissable festive day trip for anyone seeking a truly British Christmas experience beyond the city limits.
