There’s nothing better than a bank holiday - but are your exciting (or chilled-out) plans at risk of being disrupted by train services not running as usual? Whether you’re planning a day out, travelling to see family over a long weekend or celebrating a big holiday, such as Christmas or New Year’s Day, we’ve got you covered on everything you need to know for train travel on a UK public holiday below.
Do trains run on bank holidays?
Yes, besides a few key examples such as major holidays, trains do run on bank holidays in the UK. However, services may differ from regular schedules due to various factors such as reduced timetables or altered operating hours. Additionally, bank holidays are a common time for planned engineering works, which may also impact the availability of services.
We highly recommend researching your planned journey with the Trip.com journey finder here. If you have a purchased ticket, you’ll also receive up-to-date information regarding the status of your train.
Specific bank holiday restrictions
Christmas and Boxing Day
No trains run on Christmas Day. However, on Boxing Day, a very limited service is available, mainly around major airports (e.g., Heathrow and Gatwick Express) or urban tram systems. For more information, including which operators are running altered schedules, as well as travel on Christmas Eve and the days leading up to New Year’s, check out our dedicated guide here.
New Year’s Day
Train services run on New Year’s Day, though usually operate a reduced schedule (somewhat similar to the schedule you’d find on a Sunday), so expect later start times and fewer trains.
Good Friday and Easter Monday
Services typically follow a usual timetable though potentially with minor alterations, not dissimilar to a weekend schedule. Engineering works are common during this period, so some routes may also be disrupted.
Other Bank Holidays (May Day, Spring Bank Holiday, etc.)
Other Bank Holidays generally follow a Sunday schedule with fewer disruptions compared to the festive season.
Our tips for bank holiday train travel
1. Plan for reduced timetables
Train operators run a Sunday service or a modified schedule on many bank holidays. This means fewer trains may be available, and they could run at different times when compared to usual weekdays. Services may end earlier than usual on certain bank holidays, especially Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve. Always check the last train times to avoid being stranded.
2. Head to the station early
As it’ll be a popular time of year for people to travel, stations can be busier than usual, so allow extra time to navigate crowds and find your platform. This could also mean a higher chance of getting a seat on your chosen train if you haven’t booked a seat specifically.
3. Expect planned engineering works (and research ahead!)
Bank holidays are often used for essential maintenance and engineering work on the rail network. Some routes may experience partial or complete closures, requiring passengers to use alternative transport, such as buses. Keep an eye on the Trip.com app to check schedules and updates before your travel date.
4. Book your tickets in advance
Trains can be busier during bank holidays, particularly on routes to popular destinations like coastal areas, national parks, and major cities. Booking your tickets in advance is highly recommended.
5. Consider alternatives
If train services are heavily disrupted, you could always consider alternative transport options, such as coaches, buses or car rentals. National Express tend to run coach services to help beat the crowds on popular holidays such as Christmas, for example. It is always worth checking and could save your bank holiday plans!
When are UK bank holidays in 2025?
- New Year's Day (1 Jan)
- Good Friday (18 Apr)
- Easter Monday (21 Apr)
- Early May Bank Holiday (5 May)
- Spring Bank Holiday (26 May)
- Summer Bank Holiday (25 Aug)
- Christmas Day (25 Dec)
- Boxing Day (26 Dec)