national rail journey p

National Rail Enquiries

About this app

Data safety.

Ratings and reviews

• Flag inappropriate

• Show review history

What's new

App support, similar apps.

• Skip to content [Accesskey '1']
• Skip to navigation [Accesskey '2']
• Create Account
• StumbleUpon

• Journey Planner
• Tickets & Savings
• Travel Updates
• Stations & on Train
• Help & Support
• Please type your station name
• Search by postcode
• Sorry, no stations found.
• Sorry, we can't plan this journey.
• Loading stations...

Your Cheap Fare Finder

The cheap fare finder from National Rail Enquiries shows the fares for all UK train operators on all routes.

Simply select your preferred dates and time of travel to find the best value fare you can purchase and get great savings on your journey.

Enter your journey details to find and buy train tickets.

• Cheap Fare Finder
• Railcard Type: None 16-17 Saver 16-25 Railcard 26-30 Railcard Annual Gold Card Dales Railcard Devon & Cornwall Gold Card Devon & Cornwall Railcard Disabled Persons Railcard Esk Valley Railcard Family & Friends Railcard GroupSave HM Forces Railcard Highland Railcard Jobcentre Plus Travel Discount Card MyCumbria Card Network Railcard North Lincolnshire Concessionary 34% North Lincolnshire Concessionary 50% Rhondda Railcard Senior Railcard Two Together Railcard Veterans Railcard West Yorkshire Disabled Concessionary Discount West Yorkshire Senior Concessionary Discount Railcard Quantity: 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
• Railcard Type: Select a railcard Family & Friends Railcard 16-25 Railcard New Deal Photocard Disabled Child Railcard Devon & Cornwall Railcard New Deal Photocard Scotland Disabled Adult Railcard Network Railcard Senior Railcard Devon & Cornwall Gold Card HM Forces Railcard (MOD card) Annual Gold (Network Gold / South East) Railcard Quantity: 0 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8
• Friends & Family Railcard x2 Remove [if IE 6]>
• Annual Gold (Network Gold / South East) x2 Remove [if IE 6]>

If you are flexible with dates and times for your journey, and can book in advance, you can often achieve huge discounts when buying train tickets. Whether you're travelling for work or leisure, the cheap fare finder is your one-stop shop to finding the best option for your selected point-to-point journey.

Our cheap fares are subject to these provisions .

Here are some other tips on ways to save money on train travel.

Use Railcards for Great Savings

Choose the right railcard that's for you and you can get a 1/3 off rail fares on your standard rail tickets. There are a range of national Railcards . There is also a selection of regional Railcards which can be used in specific areas of the country.

Find train tickets using National Rail Enquiries

Book in advance

Advance fares are single (one-way) tickets, offering great value for money on many journeys. Advance tickets are sold in limited numbers and subject to availability. The earlier you book, the more money you save. Buy train tickets up to three months in advance for the cheapest fares.

You are here:

Train times & tickets

• Journey planner
• Live departure board
• Cheap fare finder
• Your ticket
• Travel tools
• Special offers

Plan your Journey

• Stations & destinations
• On the train
• Passengers with disabilities
• Animals and luggage

Changes to train times

• Current service disruptions
• Engineering work
• Special seasonal events
• Timetable changes
• About this site
• Train Operating Companies
• Accessibility
• Terms & Conditions
• Back to top [Accesskey '5']

National Rail Enquiries 4+

National rail.

• 2.3 • 3 Ratings
• Offers In-App Purchases

iPhone Screenshots

Description.

Stay on track with the free National Rail Enquiries App, Great Britain’s number one destination for train timetables and travel information. Get live train times and cheap tickets from all the major train line operators. National Rail Enquiries lets you plan, book and keep up to date with all your train travel in one easy app. Manage your journeys across the Great Britain train network with My Travel, plan new routes with our comprehensive journey planner and receive real time travel updates. Personalised to you, you can check timetables, set up travel alerts, find out about disruptions fast, track your train and save your favourite journeys. You can also search for cheap train tickets. Features: • Click to buy tickets - We link you directly to the train operator so you can find the cheapest fares. No booking or credit card fees. • My Travel – Set up personalised travel updates. Save your favourite journeys and stations. Find the next train departure home and get relevant live updates from across the network at a glance. • Journey Planner - Plan your journeys with up-to-the-minute travel information and track the progress of trains and as well as being alerted to disruptions on the line along your route. • Live Train Times - View real-time departures and arrivals boards for any station in Great Britain. • Progress Tracking - Find out exactly where a train is along a route, from A to B and everything in between. • Watch a Train - Pin a train to My Travel to watch its progress across the network with a single tap. • Real Time Push Notifications - Get timetable disruption alerts sent straight to your phone or watch as they happen. • Wake-up alerts - Avoid missing your stop or getting caught out when the train divides or arrives at its destination. • London Underground and DLR - Plan your journey to or from London Zone 1 Underground and DLR stations. • Taking you from A to B, put in a postcode and get the best route planner to the nearest station • Alert Me - Get notified of your next train, its platform number and any known delays as you approach your departure station Apple Watch integration: National Rail Enquiries also offers an Apple Watch app which syncs with your smartphone. At a glance, learn about any disruption to your travel plans and view all the critical travel info you require, now from the convenience of your wrist. • Up-to-the-minute updates on your favourite journeys. • View live departure information for the station you select, or activate the GPS to access details of stations on lines nearest to you. • View your recent live trains on your watch for live departure information on the move. • Receive notifications of any timetable delays to network rail services. (The Apple Watch is compatible with iPhone 5 and above) National Rail Enquiries gives you live times and all the journey planner information you need about fares so you can buy cheap tickets for all journeys with the major train line operators across Great Britain:     Arriva Trains Wales     c2c     Caledonian Sleeper     Chiltern Railways     CrossCountry     East Midlands Trains     Eurostar     Gatwick Express     Grand Central     Great Northern     Great Western Railway     Greater Anglia     Heathrow Connect     Heathrow Express     Hull Trains     Island Line     London Midland     London Overground     London Underground     Merseyrail     Northern     ScotRail     South West Trains     Southeastern     Southern     Stansted Express     TfL Rail     Thameslink     TransPennine Express     Virgin Trains     Virgin Trains East Coast Find all the information you need about train fares and times then buy the cheapest tickets fast. Enhance your train travel experience - Download the FREE National Rail Enquiries app today. www.nationalrail.co.uk

Version 9.6.6

New stations added

Ratings and Reviews

App stuck and can't purchase tickets.

I was able to make a purchase of one ticket which several times to do before it finally submitted. When I tried to do another purchase, I clicked tickets, picked my time and then hit buy now and kept being taken back to the results from my previous purchase. Tried refreshing, reload downloading the app and neither of that worked. Giving up on the app

It is impossible to delete or remove a ticket added to the basket. Worst experience.

Worst App Ever

I do t know where to begin. I would say that monkeys wrote this app, but that would be an insult to monkeys. When you click on 'tickets' to purchase your tickets, the app rarely finds a route even though the app itself has selected a route to and from your destination. After the app says it cannot find a route, it wants you to re-enter your travel info on a completely different screen. Once you do so, the app hangs and you have to exit the app and start this loop all over again. If, by some miracle, you advance after you click the tickets button to put in your seat preferences, etc., once you enter your email address and click "continue as guest", the app hangs. Why yes, I have tried registering. The app does not think my phone number is legitimate, which means you cannot register. I am trying to buy round trip tickets to Exeter. The app has been hung for the last 34 minutes. In 10 days (I installed the app 10 days ago), I have only been able to purchase tickets once. Horrible piece of work.

App Privacy

The developer, National Rail , indicated that the app’s privacy practices may include handling of data as described below. For more information, see the developer’s privacy policy .

Data Not Linked to You

The following data may be collected but it is not linked to your identity:

• Search History
• Identifiers
• Diagnostics

Privacy practices may vary, for example, based on the features you use or your age. Learn More

Information

• Ad-free version $4.99
• Developer Website
• App Support
• Privacy Policy

More By This Developer

NationalRail Smartcard Manager

You Might Also Like

Great Western Railway

ScotRail Train Times & Tickets

National Express Coach

Tube Map - London Underground

Bus Times London

Heathrow Express

• Create Account
• StumbleUpon

• Journey Planner
• Tickets & Savings
• Travel Updates
• Stations & on Train
• Help & Support

How it works

You can create a personalised timetable and download as a PDF document for printing at your leisure. You can create a timetable for up to 3 separate departure or arrival stations and can select the days, dates and travel times to suit you. You can personalise the timetable further to show all or some intermediate stations or the services of particular Train Operating Companies. Timetables are available for the next 12 weeks and will include any known changes to train times.

Pocket Timetable

Direct trains preferred, specify your route.

Further options

Get pocket timetable.

Please note, timetables may change twice a year in May and December. To see upcoming timetable changes click here .

You are here:

• Pocket Timetable Search
• Please type your station name
• Search by postcode
• Sorry, no stations found.
• Sorry, we can't plan this journey.
• Loading stations...

A Guide to the National Rail Journey Planner

Most Interesting Facts

Hey there, curious traveler! Have you ever wanted to discover some fun and fascinating facts about trains in the UK? Well, you're in for a treat! The National Rail in the UK isn't just about moving from one place to another; it's packed with exciting stories, secrets, and surprises. Ready to jump aboard the fact train? Let's chug along and learn some of the coolest tidbits about the National Rail!

• Birthday Candles for the Rails : The UK's railway history is super old - like, dinosaur-times old! Okay, not really, but it's ancient. The world's very first public railway using steam locomotives began here in the 1820s. Imagine, trains have been chugging along for almost 200 years!
• Track-tastic Length : The total length of the railway tracks in the UK is over 10,000 miles. That's like laying down a toy train track that goes on and on, enough to stretch from the UK to Australia! Phew, that's one long journey!
• Station Galore : Out of all the places in Europe, the UK has the highest number of train stations. There are over 2,500 of them! It's like having a big basket of different flavored candies, each station unique and special in its own way.
• World Record Holder : The Channel Tunnel, which connects the UK to France, holds the record for the longest underwater tunnel segment in the world. It's a whopping 23.5 miles underwater! Riding through it feels a bit like traveling inside a giant sea serpent.
• Tiny Station, Big Fame : There's a station called Dent in Cumbria, and guess what? It's the highest mainline station in all of England! It's like the Mount Everest for trains. Even though it's tiny, its height makes it stand tall and proud.
• Queen's Special Train : The UK's Queen Elizabeth II has her own special train! It's like her royal carriage but on rails. It's super fancy inside, with bedrooms, a dining room, and even an office. Talk about traveling in style!
• Secret Tunnels : Beneath the streets of London, there are secret railways that were used to transport mail. It's a bit like those hidden passages in mystery stories! These railways were used for more than 75 years before they stopped running.
• Train Spotting : In the UK, there's a fun hobby called "train spotting." People, young and old, love to watch trains, note down their numbers, and collect information. It's like a treasure hunt but with trains!
• Ghost Stations : Oooh, spooky! London's underground railway, known as the Tube, has several stations that aren't used anymore. They're called "ghost stations." While no actual ghosts live there, the idea is super intriguing, like tales of hidden magical realms.
• A Train with a View : The Jacobite Steam Train in Scotland is known for its breathtaking views, especially its journey over the Glenfinnan Viaduct. Remember the Hogwarts Express from Harry Potter? This train ride inspired those magical movie moments!
• Speedy Trains : The UK's trains can be super-fast. Some of them zoom at speeds of up to 140 mph. It's like they've had a big bowl of energy cereal for breakfast!
• Railway Museums : If you want to time travel and see old trains, head to the National Railway Museum in York. It's like a big toy box filled with antique train sets, showcasing the rich history of the UK's railways.
• Unique Train Names : Trains in the UK often have cool names. There's "The Flying Scotsman," "City of Truro," and "The Royal Scot," to name a few. It's like every train is a character from an exciting adventure story!
• Animal Railway Station : There's a station named "Hedgehog" in the UK. Yep, you heard that right! While you might not find actual hedgehogs there, the name sure adds a touch of whimsy to the journey.
• Eco-Friendly Champs : Many trains in the UK are now running on electricity rather than diesel, making them greener and cleaner. They're like the superheroes of the environment, working to keep the planet happy and healthy!

These fun facts make the National Rail in the UK feel like a storybook filled with adventures, mysteries, and wonders. Every station, every track, and every chug of the engine tells a tale of history, innovation, and the magic of travel. So, the next time you hop on a train in the UK, remember these delightful tidbits and let the journey inspire your imagination!

Key Features

When you get a new toy or gadget, it usually has some super fun features that make it special, right? Well, the National Rail Journey Planner is no different. It's packed with features that make it a superstar in the world of train travel. Let's explore what these features are and how they can be your best friend when you're looking to hop on a train.

• Real-Time Train Info : Imagine you have a magic window where you can see exactly where the trains are at any moment. That's what this feature does! It shows you the current status of the train. So, if a train is running a bit late or if it's right on time, you'll know straight away. It's like having a superpower that lets you see all the trains.
• Schedules : Picture a big book of stories. Each page tells a tale of a train's journey from one place to another. The schedules are like these stories. They give you a clear picture of when each train starts its journey and when it's supposed to finish. It's super handy when planning your day.
• Platform Updates : Train stations can sometimes feel like big mazes with lots of signs. The platform update feature is like a friendly guide that gently points you in the right direction. It tells you exactly where to stand and wait for your train, so you're not running around confused.
• Trip Duration : Have you ever wondered how long a journey will take? Just like when you ask, "Are we there yet?" on a car ride, this feature tells you how much time your train ride will take. Whether it's a quick hop or a longer journey, you'll know how long you'll be on the train.
• Multiple Route Options : Imagine you're drawing paths in the sand. Some paths are straight, some are curvy, and some have fun loops. The National Rail itinerary planner gives you different route options, just like these paths. Maybe you want the fastest route, or perhaps you'd like a route that stops at certain places. The planner lets you choose.
• Alerts for Changes : Life can be full of surprises, and sometimes train schedules change a little. But don't worry! This feature is like a friendly bird that chirps in your ear whenever there's a change. So if there's a last-minute platform change or a tiny delay, you'll be the first to know.

The National Rail trip planner is like a treasure chest of features for everyone who loves train journeys. These key features make sure you're always in the know, feeling confident, and ready for a smooth train ride. It's like having a little train wizard in your pocket, ready to help any time you need!

Tips and tricks

Everyone loves some handy tips, right? It's like getting advice from a friend who's been there and done that. When it comes to the National Rail Journey Planner , there are some golden nuggets of wisdom that can make your train travels even smoother. So, let's put on our thinking caps and dive into these helpful tips!

• Plan Ahead : Just like when you pack a picnic for a sunny day, planning ahead can make all the difference. Before your journey, take a moment to look up your route on the planner. It's a bit like checking the weather before you go out - you'll know what to expect and be ready for it.
• Bookmark It : Have you ever had a favorite book or toy that you always keep close by? That's what you should do with the National Rail trip planner. By bookmarking it on your phone or computer, it'll always be just a tap or click away. It's like having a train map right in your pocket!
• Double-Check Platforms : Even the best detectives double-check their clues. While the planner is great at giving platform updates, always keep an ear out for announcements at the station or have a peek at the big information screens. It's better to be doubly sure than to find yourself at the wrong spot!
• Use Filters : Think of filters like a magnifying glass for your train searches. If you only want to see direct routes or prefer certain times of day, use the filters. It's like when you sort your colored pencils - it makes everything clearer and easier to find.
• Travel During Off-Peak Times : The planner can also show you when trains are less busy. It's a bit like going to the park early in the morning when it's quiet. Traveling during these times can make for a more relaxed journey.
• Save Your Journeys : If you take the same route often, like going to school or visiting grandma's house, you can save that journey. It's like bookmarking your favorite story in a book. Next time, you can quickly jump back to it without searching all over again.
• Ask Questions : The National Rail route Planner has a helpful section where you can ask questions or find answers to common queries. It's like having a train expert friend who you can always turn to for advice.
• Stay Updated : Just like how toys sometimes get new features or updates, the planner also gets better over time. Make sure you're using the latest version to benefit from all the cool new stuff they add.
• Explore the Map : The planner has an interactive map, sort of like a treasure map. You can zoom in, move around, and get a good look at different train routes. It's a fun way to get familiar with where you're going.
• Remember, It's There to Help : If you ever feel a bit lost or unsure, remember the National Rail Journey Planner is there to guide you. It's like having a friendly hand to hold as you embark on your train adventures.

With these tips in your toolkit, you're all set to be a train travel champ! Using the National Rail travel planner will be a breeze, and your journeys will feel like smooth sailing - or should we say, smooth railing! Happy traveling!

Top 10 National Rail Destinations to Explore

All aboard! If you're thinking of where to go using the National Rail, I've got a treat for you. Just like when you have a box of colorful crayons and you're trying to pick the prettiest shade to start drawing, choosing a destination can be exciting. Here are the top 10 National Rail destinations that everyone loves. Let's count them together!

• London : The heart of the UK, where big red buses, the lovely River Thames , and the giant London Eye await. It's like the crown jewel in a treasure chest.
• Edinburgh : A magical city with a castle sitting on a hill. Wandering its cobbled streets feels like stepping into a fairy tale.
• York : A place where history comes alive. The old walls and the York Minster are like pages from an ancient storybook.
• Bath : With its Roman baths and honey-colored buildings, it's like a warm bubble bath for the soul.
• Oxford : Home to one of the world's oldest universities, it's like a playground for your brain, filled with books and learning.
• Liverpool : Music lovers, rejoice! It's the birthplace of The Beatles. Exploring here is like dancing to your favorite song.
• Manchester : A bustling city with a mix of old and new. It's like a patchwork quilt of history and modern life.
• Bristol : A vibrant harbor city where boats and bridges play a fun game. It's a bit like watching toy boats float in a bathtub.
• Brighton : A seaside wonder with pebble beaches and a fun pier. It's like a day at the beach with your favorite ice cream.
• Cambridge : Another place of learning with beautiful colleges. Punting on the River Cam feels like gliding in a dream.

Now, if you're wondering how to plan a trip to these lovely places, there's a cool tool that can help. FREE trial of Triplay.ai is an AI-based trip planner where you can easily plan the perfect trips based on what you love in no time at all. How fun is that?

Embracing Technology with the National Rail Journey Planner

Oh, the wonders of technology! Do you remember those times when you played with toy walkie-talkies or watched a toy robot dance? Today's tech feels just as magical, but it's even cooler and does so much more. And guess what? The National Rail route Planner is a shining star in this tech galaxy. Let's hop onto our imaginary tech train and explore how this tool embraces the magic of technology.

• Friendly for Phones and Tablets : Just like your favorite game that you play on your device, the National Rail Journey Planner works perfectly on phones and tablets. It's super handy, because wherever you go, the planner can come along in your pocket or bag.
• Voice Commands : Imagine if you could just ask a question and get an answer without even pressing a button! Thanks to technology, the planner can understand and reply to your voice. It's a bit like having a chat with a friendly robot.
• Interactive Maps : Do you enjoy exploring new places in video games? The planner's maps let you zoom in, move around, and see train routes. It's like having your own adventure map, guiding you to exciting destinations.
• Personalized Alerts : Think of these like little tech whispers. The planner sends messages to tell you if your train is late or if there's a change in schedule. It's like getting secret notes from a buddy.
• Environmentally Friendly : Thanks to the planner, many people choose trains over cars. This means less pollution and happier skies. Using the planner is like planting a tiny tree for the planet each time.
• Accessibility Features : For everyone to enjoy the tech magic, the planner has special features for those who need them. It's like a toy that's been made so every kid can play with it, no matter what.
• Save and Share Journeys : If you find a route you really like, you can keep it! And if you want, you can even share it with friends or family. It's like drawing a picture and then showing it to everyone.
• Updates and Upgrades : Like how toys sometimes get new parts or stickers, the planner also gets new features and improvements. So, it's always becoming better and cooler.
• Secure and Safe : Using technology is fun, but it's also important to be safe. The planner is like a toy chest with a lock, keeping all your travel details protected.
• Always Learning : Just like you learn new things at school, the technology behind the planner is always learning to help you better. Every day, it gets a tiny bit smarter and more helpful.

Using the National Rail travel planner is like jumping into a fun tech playground. There are so many cool things it can do, all thanks to the magic of technology. And just like how a toy robot or a walkie-talkie feels special, this planner is a special tech friend for everyone who loves train journeys. So, next time you plan a trip, remember you've got some amazing tech magic right at your fingertips!

Advantages of Using National Rail comparing to other Transport Modes

Have you ever wondered why so many people love traveling by train in the United Kingdom ? Well, let's embark on an imaginative journey! Think of the UK as a giant board game. There are different ways to move around - cars are like toy cars, buses are like big colorful boxes on wheels, and then there are the trains, gliding on shiny tracks like majestic snakes. Out of all these, trains - specifically the National Rail - have some super cool advantages that make them stand out. Let's count and explore them!

• Speedy Gonzales : National Rail trains are like the cheetahs of the transportation world in the UK. They're often much faster than cars, especially during those times when roads are as crowded as a box of crayons spilling everywhere. For example, the train journey from London to Manchester can be as quick as two hours!
• No Traffic Jams Here! : Imagine a path where you never have to stop and wait because there are too many toys blocking the way. That's what train tracks are like! While cars and buses can get stuck in traffic, trains have their own special lanes, making journeys smooth and delay-free.
• City Center to City Center : The beauty of most train stations is that they're right in the heart of cities. It's like having a direct doorway from one fun playground to another. No need to travel long distances from airports or bus terminals.
• Space to Roam : Inside a train, especially the ones on National Rail, there's room to move! You can walk around, find a comfortable spot, and stretch your legs. It's like being in a big playroom on wheels. In comparison, buses and cars can feel a bit like being inside a small toy box.
• Eco-Friendly Choice : Trains are like the superheroes of the environment. They create less pollution than cars and planes. So, every time you travel by train, it's like giving the Earth a tiny hug.
• Sightseeing on the Go : Riding a train is like being on a moving cinema. The windows showcase the beautiful landscapes of the UK, from green hills to sparkling rivers. It's a sightseeing tour without even trying!
• Cost-Effective : If you plan well, train tickets can be super wallet-friendly. There are early bird offers, group discounts, and rail cards. It's a bit like finding a toy on sale - great value for lots of fun!
• Safety First : Trains, with their dedicated tracks and professional drivers, are one of the safest ways to travel. It's like having a protective bubble around you as you explore.
• Luggage Ease : Unlike planes where there's a lot of rules about baggage, on trains you can often just bring your stuff and keep it with you. It's like having your toy bag right next to you, with all your favorite things inside.
• Flexibility : Missed a train? No worries! There's usually another one coming soon. It's like playing a game where you get multiple chances to roll the dice and move forward.

Now, if you're thinking, "That's all well and good, but how do I plan my train journey?", there's some techy magic to help. There's this smart tool called the National Rail Journey Planner which can guide you on your train adventures.

And speaking of planning, here's a golden tip: FREE trial of Triplay.ai . It's this super-smart, AI-based trip planner. Imagine a toy robot that knows all about traveling. You tell it what you like, and it helps plan the perfect trip just for you. And the cherry on top? It's got a FREE version. So, in no time, you can have a journey mapped out based on everything you love.

So, the next time you're in the UK and deciding how to travel, think of the National Rail. With all its perks, it's like choosing the shiniest, coolest toy from the toy store. Safe travels and lots of fun await!

Disadvantages of Using National Rail While Traveling in the United Kingdom

When it comes to traveling around the UK, there are lots of ways you can go from place to place. You can take a bus, ride a bike, drive a car, or hop on a train using the National Rail. Now, trains are super cool, but they might not always be the best choice for every trip. Just like ice cream, while one flavor might be someone's favorite, it might not be the best for everyone. Let's dive into some reasons why the National Rail might not always be the best ice cream... I mean, transport choice! 🍦🚂

• Can Be a Bit Pricey : Taking the train can sometimes be like buying a big toy from a store - it can cost a lot! If you compare it to other options, like buses, you might find that you'll need to break your piggy bank to pay for a train ticket.
• Not Always on Time : Trains are supposed to run like clockwork. But sometimes, just like when we're late for school, trains can be late too. Delays can happen due to weather, technical issues, or even leaves on the track (yes, really!).
• Crowded Carriages : Imagine a big tin of cookies, and everyone wants one. Sometimes, trains can be so packed that it feels like everyone in the world is trying to get a cookie from that tin at the same time! During rush hours, trains can be super crowded.
• Limited Coverage : Trains are awesome, but they can't go everywhere. There are some places, like smaller towns or countryside areas, where the train tracks just don't reach. It's a bit like having a toy car track that doesn't cover your entire playroom.
• Baggage Hassles : If you're carrying big suitcases, strollers, or bicycles, getting them on and off the train can be tricky. It's like trying to fit a square block into a round hole - it can be a bit of a puzzle!
• Not 24/7 : The moon might be up, and the owls might be awake, but the trains? Not always! Many train services don't run all night, which can be a bummer if you're a night owl traveler.
• Fewer Stops : Buses might stop at many places in a city, but trains have fixed stations. So, if you want to get off somewhere in between two stations, the train won't stop just for you, like a bus might.
• Not Always Direct : Sometimes, to get to where you want to go, you might have to change trains. It's a bit like playing hopscotch, hopping from one square to another. This can be fun, but also takes more time.
• Seasonal Disruptions : When it's super snowy or very windy, trains can get affected. It's like when you can't play outside because of the weather; sometimes, trains can't play either!
• Ticket Confusions : There are lots of different tickets for trains, and it can be confusing. It's like having a big box of crayons and not knowing which one to pick. You need to make sure you have the right ticket for your journey.
• Less Personal Space : If you like having space around you, like when you're in a car, trains might feel a bit snug. Especially when it's busy, it can be like being in a cozy blanket fort with lots of friends.
• Accessibility Issues : Some older train stations might not have elevators or ramps, which can be challenging for people with mobility issues or strollers. It's like having a playground without a slide-everyone should be able to play!

Even with these challenges, many people still love trains. They have their charm, like an old teddy bear or a favorite storybook. But it's essential to know both the good and not-so-good parts to decide which transport is best for your adventure.

Always remember, whether you're on a train, a bus, a bike, or in a car, every journey is a chance to discover new things and make fun memories! Safe travels, little adventurers!

Inspiration of Using National Rail

Imagine you're flipping through a big, colorful storybook, filled with tales of enchanting adventures and magical landscapes. Now, what if I told you that such an experience can come alive, right here in the UK, aboard the National Rail trains? Compared to other ways of traveling, like toy cars and big buses, the train journeys of the National Rail are like stories that inspire wonder, curiosity, and a sense of belonging. Let's dive deep into this tale and find out why!

• A Window to Fairy Tales : Every time you sit by a train window, you're not just looking outside. You're entering a world of magic! The green fields, old castles, and twinkling rivers-it's like watching the pages of a fairy tale unfold. In a car, you might just zoom past, but on the train, you savor every scene.
• Echoes of Old Tales : The UK's history is rich and deep, almost like an old story that's been told for ages. Many of these tales are tied to train journeys. For instance, the Hogwarts Express from Harry Potter isn't just a fictional train; its inspiration comes from real-life train journeys in the Scottish Highlands!
• Bridges, Tunnels, and Wonders : The National Rail doesn't just go around the beautiful parts of the UK; it goes through them! Bridges like the iconic Forth Bridge in Scotland or tunnels through hills are feats of engineering. They're like the magical portals in stories, connecting one enchanting world to another.
• Meeting Fellow Adventurers : Every person on the train has a story. Chatting with fellow passengers can be like sharing tales around a campfire. In buses or planes, everyone is in their own bubble. But on trains, there's a sense of community, a shared adventure.
• Inspiring Creativity : Many writers, artists, and musicians have been inspired by their train journeys. The rhythm of the rails, the changing landscapes, and the cozy compartments-all of it stirs the imagination. Think about it: while sitting in traffic in a car, could Agatha Christie have dreamt up 'Murder on the Orient Express'?
• Time to Reflect and Dream : Unlike driving where you must focus on the road, or flying where you're way up in the sky, on trains, there's time. Time to look outside, to dream, to write, or just to be. It's like floating on a cloud of thoughts, watching the world below.
• Discovery at Every Stop : Every train station is a new chapter, a new story. Places like the historic King's Cross in London or the quaint station in Cotswolds are more than just stops; they're gateways to new adventures. In other modes, you might just see the destination, but on the train, the journey itself is filled with discoveries.
• Harmony with Nature : As the train chugs along, it feels in tune with the landscapes. Forests, beaches, mountains, and meadows-it's like a dance with nature. While a plane might soar above and a car might disturb the peace, a train feels like a gentle brushstroke on the canvas of the UK.
• Stories of Old and New : From steam engines of the past to modern electric trains, the National Rail holds stories of progress and history. It's a bridge between the old tales and the new, inviting everyone to be a part of its story.
• Inspiring Respect for the Planet : With climate concerns growing, trains are like the gentle giants that tread lightly on the Earth. They inspire us to make choices that are kind, sustainable, and thoughtful. It's not just a journey from one place to another; it's a journey towards a better future.

In the grand tapestry of tales and journeys, the National Rail stands out as a beacon of inspiration. It reminds us that the journey matters as much, if not more, than the destination. It invites us to be curious, to explore, and to be a part of the ever-unfolding story of the UK.

And hey, if you ever need a companion to help you weave your own train tales, there's this magical tool called Triplay AI . It's like a wise owl from a fairy tale, always ready to guide you. With its smart brain, it can help you plan the perfect train journey based on all the things you love. It's a sprinkle of extra magic for your National Rail adventures. So, the next time you're thinking of traveling in the UK, remember the train tracks that lead to wondrous tales and choose the path of inspiration.

In a Nutshell

Traveling by train in the UK has never been easier, thanks to tools like the national rail journey planner. With just a few clicks, you can have all the information you need, eliminating the uncertainties of train travel. So, next time you're gearing up for a train journey, remember to have this trusty tool by your side. And for broader trip plans, give Triplay AI a go – it's the future of hassle-free, personalized travel planning!

• Destinations

Related posts:

Unveil Hidden Gems with Your Europe Trip Planner Guide Guide

Embark on a mesmerizing journey with our bespoke Europe Trip Planner. Craft unique itineraries, unveil secret spots, and immerse in unparalleled adventures!

Discovering the Perfect "Lunch Near Me"

Every lunch is a story waiting to be told. Unravel tales of flavor, culture, and connections with each 'lunch near me' discovery!

Planner Features

Commercial api.

for the rail network in Great Britain

Uses official timetable data licensed from Rail Delivery Group, updated daily.

Plan a journey

Origin station, destination station.

• Depart after Arrive before Depart after & Arrive before

Via Station

Avoid station, transport operators, travel modes.

• Planner settings Max. journeys shown Max. changes Search Type Default Basic Standard Advanced Intensive Time Offset Auth Token Allow extra search time Enable Fares Advance Availability

Use our free journey planner to plan all your journeys on the British rail network. We use official timetable data, supplied each night by Rail Delivery Group and have lots of useful features not seen in other journey planners.

The FastJP API is an Application Programming Interface (API) that offers superior UK rail journey planning and fares capabilities to rail retailers and ticket issuing system (TIS) suppliers.

Train strikes in May 2024: Full list of dates and lines affected

Rail lines are set for disruption in the week following the first May bank holiday as train drivers at 16 rail companies strike on different days.

Thursday 25 April 2024 10:29, UK

Train drivers will stage a fresh wave of strikes and overtime bans in May, causing disruption to the rail network.

The strikes are part of a long-running dispute over pay.

Members of Aslef union at 16 rail companies will walk out on different days from 7 to 9 May.

Additionally, all members will refuse to work any overtime from 6 May to 11 May.

Here is a full list of the services affected by strikes and when.

Rail strike dates

Tuesday 7 May

Strikes will affect c2c, Greater Anglia, GTR Great Northern Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern, Gatwick Express and South Western Railway.

Wednesday 8 May

Strikes will affect Avanti West Coast, Chiltern Railways, CrossCountry, East Midlands Railway, Great Western Railway and West Midlands Trains.

Thursday 9 May

Strikes will affect LNER, Northern Trains and TransPennine Express.

Overtime ban dates

From Monday 6 May to Saturday 11 May union members will not work overtime.

Overtime bans, an action short of a strike, means some services may not be running or may be reduced as drivers refuse to work their rest days.

People are advised to check before they travel, as some areas may have no service.

Keep up with all the latest news from the UK and around the world by following Sky News

How do strikes and overtime bans affect services?

Strikes tend to mean services on lines where members are participating are extremely affected or cancelled entirely, whereas overtime bans often lead to reduced services.

Are there strikes on the Tube too?

There have been regular strikes on London Underground too recently, and while there aren't any planned walkouts for drivers, customer service managers are set to walk out on Friday 26 April in a dispute over terms and conditions.

There will also be an overtime ban for the customer service managers on the following days:

Monday 29 April

Tuesday 30 April

Wednesday 1 May

Tuesday 2 May

Wednesday 3 May

Thursday 4 May

Friday 5 May

The Transport Salaried Staffs' Association (TSSA) says the action by its members is likely to cause Tube stations to close at the last minute, including on the Saturday following the strike (27 April), while TfL has said on its website "some stations may need to close at short notice".

Despite the warning, a TfL spokesperson has said they aren't expecting significant disruption.

This action follows strike action taken by the same workers on 10 April, which the TSSA said had a "real impact" with "many stations shut at short notice".

They say they are "extremely concerned" about TfL's 'Stations Changes' proposals.

"We have made it clear that our union will not accept the continued threats to our members' roles, locations, terms, and conditions to stand unchallenged," a TSSA spokesperson said.

"We will continue to take sustained action until London Underground is prepared to negotiate with us in good faith."

Commenting on the impending strikes, a TfL spokesperson said: "We are disappointed that TSSA is continuing with this strike action following a consultation process.

"While we don't expect this action will cause significant disruption, we urge TSSA to continue to work with us to help find a resolution.

"There are no planned job losses as part of these vital changes which will improve the service we provide to customers at our stations."

How can I stay in the loop?

You can use the National Rail's journey planner to see when trains are running.

Be sure to check it close to when you plan to travel, as it will be updated regularly.

Be the first to get Breaking News

Install the Sky News app for free

Why are the strikes still happening?

Aslef rejected a two-year offer of 4% in 2022 and another 4% this year, saying it is way below inflation, and is linked to changes in terms and conditions.

Aslef said train drivers have not had an increase in salary for five years, since their last pay deals expired in 2019.

The union said after its members voted overwhelmingly in February to continue taking industrial action, it asked the train operating companies to hold talks.

General secretary Mick Whelan said the year-old pay offer of 4% and another 4% was "dead in the water".

Related Topics

• London Underground
• Rail strikes