Great Western Railway is preparing to introduce its new winter timetable, which comes into effect on Sunday 14 December. The operator is advising passengers to check journey times in advance, as services across the network will see adjustments aimed at improving reliability and better matching demand. Customers planning festive travel are also being encouraged to book ahead and make seat reservations, particularly during the Christmas getaway period.

Journey planners have already been updated to reflect services over Christmas and New Year, and Advance fares are currently available to book online. GWR says the changes form part of its ongoing efforts to deliver more dependable services, with amendments applied to a range of routes as part of the seasonal timetable shift.

A key milestone in the update is the withdrawal of GWR’s remaining Castle Class sets, which are now approaching half a century in service. Their final planned working is scheduled for Saturday 13 December, marking the end of an era for the fleet, which has been a familiar sight on local routes between Plymouth and Penzance. The sets will be succeeded by trains from GWR’s existing fleet, supported by the gradual introduction of recommissioned Class 175 units throughout 2026.

While engineering work is expected during the holiday period, GWR notes that the scale of disruption will be smaller than in previous years. Some repairs and improvements are being scheduled when passenger numbers are typically lower, helping to reduce the overall impact on festive travel.

Passengers travelling over Christmas are advised to check for timetable changes before setting off and consider quieter times of day for a more comfortable journey. Booking in advance is recommended, particularly for those travelling longer distances or during busier peak periods.

With the winter timetable now imminent, GWR is encouraging customers to plan ahead and review updated services to ensure smooth travel into the Christmas season and beyond.

Image: Great Western Railway