LNER planned strikes 2026: Is my train running this week?

LNER has not announced any strike dates in the upcoming months. This means that, unless something changes, we are not expecting any LNER strike disruption.

• However, it does not guarantee there will be no LNER train strikes. It is possible that short-notice disruption may occur.

• Long-distance services with LNER may be affected by other disruptions, including planned engineering work.

• Passengers should always check LNER updates before boarding a train with the operator.

Nobody wants to see their journey disrupted. To avoid long delays, it is best to plan ahead and be aware of any planned or potential delays that may affect your route.

When LNER strikes take place, passengers are likely to be affected by:

• Reduced intercity services, with fewer trains between popular LNER stations, such as York, Leeds, Durham, Edinburgh (Waverley), and Peterborough. Consequently, passengers may be forced to wait longer to board a train.
• Limited long-distance trains. As a result of disruption, long-distance services along the East Coast Main Line may be cancelled or delayed. Travellers should plan and allow extra time to complete their journey.
• Overcrowding on trains. When fewer services run, this can cause remaining services to reach capacity quickly, meaning that carriages are very busy. Seat reservations may not be in operation, especially at peak times, since strikes reduce the services available, and popular services can become even more crowded than usual.

Always allow extra time to complete your journey during LNER strike dates. Where possible, avoid tight connections, as this may result in you missing your onward train services. If you plan to travel at peak times, book early to secure a seat.

Travelling between London and York during LNER strikes

If you’re due to travel for business on strike days, allow extra time for your journey, consider alternative travel options, or re-arrange meetings to a different day or onto an online format, where possible.

If your LNER train might be affected by strike action, consider these alternatives to complete your journey more efficiently:

• Choose a different operator: If LNER staff are on strike and other operators’ services are running as normal, you might wish to travel with other operators, such as CrossCountry or TransPennine Express. For example, taking the train from Newcastle to York with CrossCountry is a direct route that takes a similar amount of time as the LNER service.
• Swap to a different transport method: Coaches can be a great way to avoid disruption when LNER train strikes are taking place. Although typically slower than trains, the coach could save you time and reduce stress if you know there might be a disruption to your route.

How far in advance are LNER strikes announced?

When LNER staff strike, the announcement will typically be made one to two weeks before the first strike date. For any LNER train strikes in 2026, expect up to a fortnight of warning.

Will any LNER trains run during strikes?

Consult the LNER strike timetable for full information. Depending on the extent of the strike, the reduced timetable could range from anywhere from 20% to 90% of services running.

Can I get a refund if my train is cancelled?

If your train is cancelled, you have the right to apply for a full refund from Trip.com. Submit your request to customer support, where it will be dealt with promptly.

Do LNER strikes affect long-distance travel the most?

Yes, LNER strikes will likely result in cancellations on long-distance routes from London to Scotland. Routes to and from Scotland are most likely to see disruption.