Greater Manchester is ‘Open for Christmas’ as Metrolink encourages the use of the tram for days out

Metrolink has launched its ‘Open for Christmas’ campaign in a bid to give lots of fantastic ideas for festive events, fun days and exciting nights in Greater Manchester.

As the UK’s largest light rail network, Metrolink offers a great way to get around Greater Manchester and now people can visit their new website http://christmas.tfgm.com to find festive for fun for all of the family such as a night out at Lightopia in Heaton Park, a fabulous food tour from Altrincham food market and secret hideouts such as the Northern Quarter.

The website helps you choose your destination and also finds the best travel options for you including advice on the nearest tram stop.

Metrolink is holding a countdown to Christmas and will be giving away festive prizes on the Open for Christmas website and also their Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) social media channels.

Tram travel is great for anyone thinking of enjoying a drink or two whilst out and about this Christmas and is a great way to avoid pricey taxi fares whilst also cutting car usage on the already busy roads of Greater Manchester.

Metrolink trams will be in operation throughout the Christmas period and will only be closed for Christmas day.

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People travelling with Metrolink are asked to check their journeys ahead of travelling as some services will finish early on Christmas Eve. New Year’s Eve however, will see services run slightly later to help those enjoying new year celebrations.

Metrolink wants to remind passengers that the wearing of face coverings is a mandatory requirement on public transport, unless exempt.

To keep networks are safe, TfGM are working with transport staff and police available throughout to give reassurance and also help and advise for customers.

TfGM have a dedicated travel advice page where customers can find a full breakdown of tram services operating over the festive period, and also includes bus services and Travelshop opening times, and can be found here: https://tfgm.com/christmas-services

The TfGM website also gives advice for those looking to avoid crowds and offers suggestions of the quieter times to travel on the network and can be found here: https://tfgm.com/public-transport/tram/quietest-times-to-travel-on-metrolink

TfGM’s Head of Metrolink, Danny Vaughan, said:

“Open for Christmas is a great way to make the most of the festive season by travelling with Metrolink and supporting local businesses at the same time.”

“I’d also like to remind people that services will be busier during the festive season, so remember to check our website and across our social media channels before you travel.”

“Also consider travelling at quieter times if you can and remember to wear a face covering when travelling, unless exempt. This is now a legal requirement and is intended to help make sure you, and those around, have a safe and enjoyable Christmas and New Year.”