The major shake-up represents one of the most significant timetable changes for North Wales in a generation, with services on the route increasing by around 50%, alongside more frequent trains and greater capacity between Chester and Llandudno Junction. A new direct service will also operate between Holyhead and Manchester Airport.
Passengers will benefit from a standard hourly pattern introduced on key routes north and west of Shrewsbury (excluding Wrexham and Bidston). In addition, Network Rail is installing new footbridges at Prestatyn and Pensarn to replace high-risk level crossings, providing safer and step-free routes across the railway.
The timetable change coincides with the introduction of pay-as-you-go (PAYG) in North Wales on May 18. The tap-in, tap-out contactless payment system will cover 15 stations between Wrexham General and Bidston.
PAYG builds on its successful rollout in South East Wales and will make rail travel simpler and more accessible, ensuring customers pay the best-value fare.
Transport for Wales say the new rail timetable will transform journeys across North Wales and boost summer travel.
Colin Lea, Transport for Wales Planning and Performance Director, said: “We’re now just days away from delivering a major improvement to rail services as part of Network North Wales. The new timetable will bring more frequent trains and better connections for our customers in North and West Wales.
“These changes represent a significant step forward, with a simpler, more consistent timetable and increased capacity across some of our busiest routes. Alongside the introduction of pay-as-you-go, we’re making it easier than ever for people to choose rail and travel sustainably.”
Key changes to North Wales Coast and Borders include:
- Trains from Manchester Airport to Llandudno will now serve Holyhead instead, improving links to North West England and enhancing ferry connections to Ireland via Manchester.
- The separate Wrexham–Chester and Chester–Crewe hourly services are being combined into one through service.
- The Liverpool–Chester service will be extended to Llandudno, offering new direct travel opportunities.
- The Birmingham–North Wales service (including Birmingham International Airport), currently operating every two hours, will run to and from Llandudno Junction rather than Holyhead.
- A new service pattern will improve commuting options to Holyhead and Bangor, supporting local employment and economic growth.
Valley station will become a compulsory stop on all relevant services, improving consistency and passenger confidence.
Network Rail has delivered a series of level crossing safety improvements, including temporary closures and diversion routes at Sandy Lane and Beverley Drive, seasonal crossing stewards at Pen Uchaf and Ty Gwyn, new miniature stop lights at Flint Marsh, and further upgrades at Stokyn Lodge and Fishpool Farm crossings.
Nick Millington, Network Rail Route Director, said: “We’ve been working hard for 18 months to prepare the railway to deliver these additional services, which support more low-carbon journeys and better connectivity for employment and tourism, helping local economies grow.
“Safety remains our priority as we support these welcomed changes across North and West Wales. With more trains running, we’re asking everyone to stay alert, particularly at level crossings, and to take extra care when near the railway.”
Customers are advised to check before they travel, as some calling patterns will change and trains may stop at different stations than before.
This is important for anyone making connections with other train operators, who may also be adjusting their timetables.
For more information visit: https://tfw.wales/service-status/timetables