Check before you travel
If there are planned engineering works or unplanned disruptions, we may need to run rail replacement services in place of your usual train to help keep your plans on track.
Our rail replacement vehicles will always take the most direct route between stations to ensure that your journey is as efficient as possible.
A different timetable operates when rail replacement services are in use, and journeys may take longer on rail replacement.
There may also be unforeseen delays, such as emergency road closures and traffic, so please allow extra time for your journey.
Information about upcoming rail replacement services can be found on our engineering works page.
You can find the location of replacement vehicle pick-up and drop-off points by checking station signs or by searching for your station on our station facilities page or on National Rail’s find a station page.
• Valid train tickets are required to travel on rail replacement services.
• For safety, non-folding bicycles and electronic scooters cannot be taken on rail replacement vehicles – folded bikes may be taken on at the drivers’ discretion.
• Assistance dogs are allowed to travel – other dogs may be taken on board at the drivers’ discretion.
• The consumption of alcohol is not permitted on rail replacement services.
• Rail replacement vehicles are only permitted to stop at the designated rail replacement stop – they are unable to make additional requested stops.
• Rail replacement buses will usually display a sign in the window that shows the stations they are calling at or on their onboard electronic displays.
• At most stations, staff will be on hand to direct you to the correct vehicle, as some routes offer both replacement buses that run direct services to a destination and ones that stop at all stations. Some stations may also have rail replacements running multiple routes. If in doubt, speak to a member of staff who can advise you on the best way to travel.
• The types of vehicles used for rail replacement can vary based on the frequency of the rail replacement service and the volume of customers. Vehicles include coaches, buses, taxis & minibuses.
You can find the location of replacement vehicle pick-up and drop-off points by checking station signs or by searching for your station on our station facilities page or on National Rail’s find a station page.
Plan ahead and check your journey before you travel to ensure you stay ahead of these changes. Our JourneyChecker tool provides the latest information regarding disrupted services and rail replacements.
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