Coronavirus travel information
Update: 1115hrs, 17 May 2021
Current restrictions
The latest Government advice is that you should aim to travel safely when using public transport and plan your journey in advance.
With more people returning to rail, social distancing may not be possible on every journey. If you do need to travel, you should make every effort to avoid the busiest times and routes to help maintain social distancing – see below for advice on how to do this. By law you must wear a face covering on a train or at a station – some exemptions apply.
Government advice can change at short notice and there may be different rules if you are travelling to Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland, so please check the latest information before setting out.
How we're keeping you safe
Video: What to expect at your local station
Changes to our timetables
We’ve introduced an amended timetable that reflects the current demand for our services. Online journey planners are showing the right times and downloadable timetables are available.
Extensive and frequent cleaning
We have stepped up our cleaning on board and at stations, using the latest antiviral equipment and techniques. Watch our video to see our team in action.
Maximising space on trains
We know having space on your journey is important, which is why we're running the longest trains we can. Information screens will let you know how many carriages there are.
Keeping a safe distance
At stations we have introduced a separate entrance and exit where possible, along with one-way systems and floor stickers to remind you to keep your distance.
Avoid busier trains with our handy tool
With 'How busy is my train?' you can plan ahead, see and how busy your train will be.
Our staff are ready to help
At our stations, on our trains, over the phone or on social media, we are here for you.
How you can travel safely
Buy in advance
Buy your ticket online or on our mobile app. This way you can skip queues and ticket machines.
Wear a face covering (unless exempt)
Face coverings are compulsory in stations and on trains.
Travel at quieter periods
Between 10am-3pm or after 6pm on weekdays, chances are there'll be more space on board.
Wash your hands
Do this before and after your journey and carry hand sanitiser too. Hand sanitiser is available at our busiest stations.
Make space
Keep your distance at the station and use the full length of the platform to board the train. Try to keep one seat free next to you whilst on board.
Helpful boarding
Stay on the platform until people get off the train to give everyone space. Please try and keep the vestibule area by the doors free.
Booking assistance
Book assistance in advance if you can, but if you are not able to, we will do our best to help you on the day.
Be kind
Please show respect to each other as we all start to travel again.
Good to know
Key worker? Please feed back any issues
As a result of the impact of the pandemic on the rail industry, some routes may be running to a reduced timetable or with replacement buses in operation.
If you are travelling with us and have feedback on the services available, please contact us using our online form giving details of your journey, workplace and working hours.
If your journey has become impossible, please email [email protected]