Trains in Wales

[MinnieMountain]

What are trains in Wales like at the moment?

We're supposed to be going there next week.

[MinnieMountain]

Bump

[FreezerBird]

Do you mean in general or in terms of right now, changes because of Covid etc?

If you're travelling to Wales on the train it's probably fairly straightforward, but in most of the country I wouldn't rely on the trains to get you around during a holiday, unless you're in the more built up south.

[JustCallMeGriffin]

Which trains? Which bit of Wales?

There's mainline trains, cross country trains, local trains and there's a vast difference between regions in terms of how the trains are run despite Transport for Wales running most of it. I know Wales looks little on a map but it'll take you a good 4 hours drive to get from South to North and at least the same on the train.

The valleys lines are fairly quiet, except for sunny days when half of South East Wales tries to descend on Barry Island via train.

[MinnieMountain]

To Haverfordwest from London specifically. I grew up in the area so I've made the journey many times.

I'm getting worried that the official advice says "essential travel only". We're basically on holiday and having careful walks with my DF who lives there.

[MinnieMountain]

But your description of people descending on Barry Island gives me hope @JustCallMeGriffin

[JustCallMeGriffin]

There might be reduced services but there isn't anyone checking/challenging if you're entitled to be on the train.

Only thing I have noticed is there's a fair amount of bus replacements past Swansea...but that isn't a new issue.

I don't envy you with that journey with a face mask though!

[MinnieMountain]

Thank you @JustCallMeGriffin.

We'll grin and bare it with the face masks. It will make the sea air smell even more refreshing. Luckily DS is exempt because he's 6.

[Howyoualldoworkme]

MinnieMountain My son travels from Haverford to Carmarthen every day for work. They were on Sunday service until recently but mostly back to a normal timetable now. Quite quiet as well.
No one checks if it's an "essential" journey