Avanti West Coast Strike Timetable: What You Need to Know
Avanti West Coast has released revised timetables for the first two strike days. Check them now at their website. More updated schedules will be posted soon.
Massive Service Cuts Hit Key Routes
Due to coordinated strikes by the RMT union across train operators and Network Rail, Avanti West Coast will slash services to about 25% of normal weekday runs on Tuesday 21 and Thursday 23 June. On Saturday 25 June, just a third of the usual Saturday timetable will operate.
- One train per hour from London Euston to Manchester, Liverpool, Birmingham, and Preston.
- Limited trains to Glasgow.
- First trains start just before 8am; last trains run mid-afternoon.
- No services in North Wales, Shrewsbury, Blackpool, or Edinburgh on strike days.
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Expect Chaos – Travel Only If You Must
Trains will be packed, destinations served less often, and disruption will spill over the day after strikes. Avanti warns: “Travel only if absolutely necessary.” Always check the latest train info before travelling.
Ticket Flexibility and Refunds
Tickets bought for travel between Tuesday 21 June and Sunday 26 June remain valid until Monday 27 June. If you’d rather not travel, a full refund is available with no fees.
“We are disappointed with the decision to go on strike, which we believe is premature and will cause untold misery for customers,” said Phil Whittingham, Avanti West Coast Managing Director. “We urge the RMT not to go ahead and instead work with us to secure the rail service’s long-term future.”
“We’re running a limited service with fully trained staff on board and at stations, but trains will be extremely crowded. Make alternative plans or claim a full refund if you can. We thank customers in advance for their patience.”
Network Rail Warns: Plan Ahead or Stay Put
Phil James, Network Rail’s North West route director, said: “We’re working hard to run the best possible service despite the strikes. Thousands of trained back-up staff will cover some roles, but with only a fraction of normal staff, many routes will be cut completely.”
“Please plan ahead, keep up with your train operator’s info, and only travel next week if absolutely necessary.”
