Key take-aways
| Change | Details | Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| 12 additional weekly services on the North Wales route | Two extra weekday Holyhead ⇄ London trains, two extra Saturday services, and Sunday extensions | 17 % more frequency between Holyhead, Chester and the capital |
| Early morning Holyhead → London service | Arrives in London before 09:00 | Opens up day-return business and leisure trips |
| Strengthened 17:00 London Euston → Chester | Upgraded to 10 carriages | Higher peak-time capacity |
| Evero bi-mode trains replace Voyagers | Quieter, roomier units with fast Wi-Fi, wireless charging, larger luggage racks and upgraded accessibility | Superior passenger experience and more sustainable operations |
What the May 2025 North Wales timetable looks like
- Weekdays:
- Holyhead to London Euston: two new departures, including a pre-9 am arrival.
- London Euston to Holyhead: corresponding returns, with the 17:00 strengthened to 10 coaches to Chester.
- Saturdays:
- One extra Holyhead → London and one extra London → Chester.
- Sundays:
- Existing Holyhead service extended to London.
- Additional London → Chester train.
Combined, the uplift delivers nearly 6,000 new seats every week across North Wales, Chester and the West Coast Main Line.
Why the new Evero trains matter
Hitachi-built Evero bi-modes marry electric and diesel operation, enabling seamless running from electrified WCML into non-electrified North Wales. Compared with the outgoing Voyager fleet, Everos offer:
- Enhanced comfort: extra leg-room, larger windows and quieter saloons.
- Passenger-first tech: reliable high-speed Wi-Fi, wireless device charging, clear real-time info displays.
- Accessibility upgrades: larger wheelchair spaces, high-contrast carpets, accessible toilets, plus Braille and large-print seat labels.
Industry and government reaction
“We’re delighted to boost connectivity between North Wales and London while introducing our cutting-edge Evero fleet,” said Nick Smith, Regional Growth Manager, Avanti West Coast. “These extra trains honour our commitment to grow capacity and improve the on-board experience.”
Ken Skates MS, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, welcomed the news aboard an inaugural Evero service: “Restoring pre-Covid service levels is essential for North Wales’ economy. I look forward to further enhancements with Avanti.”
What this means for North Wales rail travellers
- More flexibility: Commuters and leisure passengers gain earlier arrivals and later returns.
- Better comfort: Evero interiors set a new benchmark on the route.
- Stronger regional links: Additional Chester services tighten connections to Merseyside, the Midlands and the South.
