Train timetables

From 19 October 2026 we'll begin introducing our new Class 197 trains on the Cambrian line, between Pwllheli and Machynlleth

This will be the first time in over 35 years new trains have operated on this route.

As our new trains cannot attach and detach with the trains that currently run on the Cambrian line, we’re introducing them gradually and customers will continue to see a mix of new trains and old trains on the Cambrian line.

From Monday 19 October until late 2026, trains on the Cambrian Coast line between Pwllheli and Machynlleth will temporarily start and finish at Machynlleth.

If you're travelling between the Cambrian Coast and Birmingham via Shrewsbury, you'll need to change trains at Machynlleth to continue your journey.

During this period, we advise all our customers travelling between Pwllheli and Machynlleth, Shrewsbury and Birmingham to check before you travel using the TfW app or website. This will give you the latest information on connecting trains, what platform you need to change onto and any last-minute changes to services.

Making connections as easy as possible

We understand that changing trains can be stressful. We've planned to make the change at Machynlleth as simple as possible for all customers:

• Additional staff will be available at Machynlleth to provide information about onward journeys and help customers change trains.
• If you need assistance, Passenger Assist can be booked in advance by calling 03330 050 501. The team are there to support passengers who have disabilities or reduced mobility.
• If you have heavy luggage with you and you’re worried about changing trains, let the conductor on board know in advance of getting to Machynlleth.
• Machynlleth station has lifts providing step-free access between platforms, and we'll have extra staff on hand to help.

We're also making it easier to access stations across the Cambrian line. We've installed Harrington Humps, raised sections of platform designed to reduce the step between train and platform, at six stations: Aberdovey, Dyffryn Ardudwy, Llwyngwril, Talsarnau, Penrhyndeudraeth and Porthmadog.

These improvements will help wheelchair users, people travelling with prams and buggies, and anyone with reduced mobility.

About our new Class 197e trains

Built in Wales, our new Class 197e trains will provide more modern, comfortable and reliable journeys for customers travelling across North and Mid Wales.

Customers will benefit from high‑quality onboard customer information screens in Cymraeg and English, improved Wi‑Fi and charging points, modern air-conditioning and more accessible interiors. Each two-car train includes dedicated spaces for passengers with reduced mobility as well a fully accessible toilet.

The trains are known as Class 197e units because they have been fitted with the European Train Control System (ETCS), a specialist digital signalling system used on the Cambrian line.

The new Class 197e fleet will gradually replace our Class 158 trains, which have served the Cambrian line for more than three decades.

Temporary timetable change from Saturday 10 October to Friday 4 December

We’re making some changes to our timetables across our network to improve reliability during the autumn leaf -fall season.

During autumn, fallen leaves can build up on the railway and, when combined with moisture, create a slippery layer on the rails similar to black ice on the roads. This can reduce traction, making it more difficult for trains to accelerate and brake efficiently.

To help maintain punctual and reliable services, some journeys will be slightly retimed, allowing train drivers additional time to brake and accelerate safely in areas most affected by leaf fall.

Check before you travel as services may leave stations a few minutes earlier than usual.

Here’s a summary of the most significant changes

Wrexham to Liverpool (Wrexham to Bidston line)

Majority of services will start and terminate at Wrexham General. No Rail Replacement Services will run between Wrexham General and Wrexham Central. Journeys along this route will be retimed by approximately 1-3 minutes, with connections preserved at Shotton.

Maesteg line

Most services from Cardiff Central to Maesteg will depart Cardiff Central 1-2 minutes earlier.

The 23:16 Cardiff Central to Maesteg service will not run from Monday to Friday, to allow the Railhead Treatment Train to run on the Maesteg line.

Customers are advised to travel on the 23:20 Cardiff Central to Camarthen service to Bridgend, where a rail replacement bus will run to Maesteg.

Llandudno Junction to Blaenau Ffestiniog (Conwy Valley line)

Minor retiming of services along the route, with journeys taking 2-3 minutes longer. Trains will leave Blaenau Ffestiniog slightly earlier.

Shrewsbury to Newport (Marches)

Minor retiming of services along the route.

Shrewsbury to Birmingham

Minor retiming of services between Shrewsbury and Wolverhampton, with some services leaving Shrewsbury slightly earlier.

Shrewsbury to Chester and Crewe

Minor retiming along the route.

For full details and to plan your journey, please check before you travel by visiting tfw.wales and entering journey details for a date from 10 October.

If you would like to create a specific downloadable timetable for your journey please use the tool on National Rail Enquiries.

September 2026

Cambrian

Chester - Birmingham

Swansea - Shrewsbury | Heart of Wales line

Cardiff - Manchester / Chester / Llandudno Junction / Holyhead

Maesteg - Cardiff Central

Cardiff Central - Cheltenham Spa

West Wales - Swansea and Cardiff

Holyhead / Llandudno - Chester - Manchester / Liverpool

Holyhead - Cardiff Central

Rhymney Valley - Caerphilly - Cardiff Central

Cardiff to Penarth, Barry Island and the Vale of Glamorgan

Ebbw Vale Town - Newport / Cardiff Central

May 2026

Llandudno - Blaenau Ffestiniog

Bidston - Wrexham Central

Treherbert / Aberdare / Merthyr Tydfil - Cardiff Central

Coryton - Cardiff Central

Cardiff Queen Street - Cardiff Bay