More than 420,000 people are expected to travel on Eurostar this Christmas – an 11% rise on 2012.

Over 210,000 Brits will escape the UK for a festive break in Europe.

The busiest days for departures at Ebbsfleet International and Ashford International will be Friday, December 20 and 27, and Monday, December 30.

Father Christmas will entertain children travelling on the high-speed operator from Saturday, December 21 to Christmas Eve.

The most popular destinations are Paris, Disneyland Paris and the French and Swiss Alps.

Eurostar commercial director Nick Mercer said: “There’s always a great atmosphere in our stations at this time of year, and this Christmas will be no exception.

“Our French and Swiss services have proved particularly popular this year as the British love affair with the slopes continues to snowball.

“For any travellers looking for a last minute getaway, there are tickets remaining for our first Swiss ski service of the season, departing this weekend.”

Details at www.eurostar.com.