We only show information concerning engineering works up to 12 weeks in advance.
We and our partners at Network Rail are always working hard to maintain and improve the rail network. We try to keep disruption to a minimum by carrying out engineering works at the weekend or over holiday periods where we can, but this isn’t always possible.
If we need to close train lines for engineering works, we’ll provide buses to replace the affected trains. We will need to alter train services over a wider area, for example to connect with buses, so you should always check whether your journey will be affected.
Overnight trains
Engineering works affect trains at night more than during the day. If you’re planning to travel after 2300 or before 0530 then check train times carefully, to make sure that you can complete your journey safely. Sometimes this work has to be arranged at short notice, for example if emergency repairs have to be made, so please check our live travel update page.
Unscheduled delays
Sometimes we have to alter trains at short notice for reasons beyond our control. Check out our live travel updates page for up-to-date information on any changes or cancellations.
National Rail Enquiries can provide you with detailed information about train delays and cancellations anywhere on the network. Call 0345 748 4950 or visit nationalrail.co.uk.
Luggage on replacement buses
If engineering works are affecting our trains then we may use replacement buses, or even taxis, to get you to your destination. Unfortunately there’s no room on replacement buses or taxis to carry prams and pushchairs that do not fold, cycles, animals (with the exception of assistance dogs) or bulky luggage. We apologise in advance for any inconvenience.
If we need to close train lines for engineering works, we’ll provide buses to replace the affected trains. We will need to alter train services over a wider area to connect with buses, so you should always check whether your journey will be affected.
If we need to close train lines for engineering works, we’ll provide buses to replace the affected trains. We will need to alter train services over a wider area to connect with buses, so you should always check whether your journey will be affected.
Accessible rail replacement vehicles
Wherever possible, we try to ensure that rail replacement vehicles are accessible to you. However, not all coaches available to us have wheelchair access and we are working with government and our suppliers to increase their availability and supply. To ensure we can meet your needs during engineering work, please book in advance so that there isn’t a wait at the station if you require an alternative vehicle and your journey can go smoothly. You can book assistance on our accessible travel page.
Rail replacement buses
Customers should be aware that, due to a nationwide shortage of bus drivers, it is not always possible to secure as many rail replacement bus services as we would like during essential engineering works.
Our teams are working very hard to arrange as many rail replacement bus services as possible and limit the disruption caused to customer journeys, but there may be gaps between buses and customers should check before they travel.
It is not possible to cancel scheduled engineering works as these are meticulously planned months or even years in advance and are vital for the maintenance and improvement of the railway.
We will alert customers to any disruption to rail replacement bus cover as soon as we are able and apologise for any inconvenience that might be caused by this nationwide shortage of bus drivers.
