Eurostar is expecting a busy Christmas period, with over 379,500 passengers booked to travel before January 1st.

The figure represents a 4.6 per cent increase compared to the same period last year.

Paris is the most popular destination, and seasonal escapes to the slopes are also in high demand, with a 52 per cent increase in passengers choosing the ease and comfort of high-speed train versus plane to travel to the Alps for a festive break.

Friday, December 21st, is the busiest day for UK departures, with over 18,900 passengers expected to travel across the Channel for the festive period.

Travellers departing from London St Pancras over the Christmas period will be treated to a different choir every day over the festive season, and some may even spot Santa as he makes some visits to the station.