[WTM] Railway & Travel News > Europe Railway News > UK Railway News > Summary: Railway operation updates due to COVID-19 – United Kingdom (as of November 20, 2020)

Summary: Railway operation updates due to COVID-19 – United Kingdom (as of November 20, 2020)

横山 勝巳 / Yokoyama Katsumi

In order to prevent the spread of COVID-19, people is obligatory to bring and wear a face cover such as a mask when traveling by public transportation such as railroads in the United Kingdom (England, Scotland and Wales) (Except for exempted people / children under the age of 11). Violations can result in a fine of £ 6,400.

Eurostar trains at St Pancras International Station
Eurostar trains at St Pancras International Station

It is required to disinfect the hands and fingers before and after the travel, and to keep a social distance at stations, platforms, on and trains. It is also recommended that people plans ahead and travel during non-crowded hours.

Many railway routes continue to operate as before. The main changes are listed below, but the number of trains may be reduced or suspensions may occur on other routes as well. Please check the website of the railway operators in advance.

Major changes in railway operations due to COVID-19

Transport for London (London Underground)

  • The Waterloo & City Line remains closed until further notice.
  • There is currently no night Tube service.

Eurostar

  • Only 1 round trip is in operation between London and Paris.
  • The direct train between London and Brussels operates only 1 round trip from Monday to Friday.
  • The direct train between London and Rotterdam / Amsterdam operates only 1 round trip on Saturdays and Sundays.
  • Direct trains between London and Marne-la-Vallee Chessy (Disneyland Paris) are suspended.
  • Ashford International, Ebbsfleet International and Calais – Fréthun Stations are closed for Eurostar services.
  • If you cross the border by rail, you may need to fill out a form or quarantine.

Gatwick Express

  • All trains are suspended until further notice. Southern or Thameslink services from / to London Gatwick Airport are in operation.

Heathrow Express

  • The number of trains are reduced and a special timetable is valid that departs every 30 minutes.

Stansted Express

  • The number of trains are reduced and a special timetable is valid that departs every 30 minutes.

Caledonian Sleeper

  • The trains are operating only between London Euston and Edinburgh / Inverness.
  • The route are suspended between London Euston and Glasgow / Fort William / Aberdeen.

Grand Central

  • All trains are suspended until Wednesday, December 2, 2020.

Hull Trains

  • All trains are suspended until Wednesday, December 2, 2020.