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Essential Easter travel information 2026

Bank holiday timetables

Bank holiday timetables

Trains run on Good Friday (3rd April 2026), Easter Sunday (5th April 2026) and Easter Monday (6th April 2026) in the UK, but often follow a reduced Sunday schedule. You can use the journey planner on TrainPal to view the up-to-date Easter bank holiday train timetable for your chosen route.

Rail engineering works

Rail engineering works

Be sure to check schedules on TrainPal to see if there are rail engineering works this Easter affecting your route. With fewer commuters and more daylight hours as spring arrives, National Rail often uses Easter to carry out essential upgrades and maintenance work. Rail replacement bus services operate on disrupted lines.

Advance tickets

Advance tickets

For cheap train tickets this Easter, it's often best to book Advance fares. These go on sale 12 weeks before departure and can sell out. Train tickets can rise the closer you get to the Easter bank holiday weekend.

<a data-render='keywords' href="/railcard-guide">Railcards</a>

Railcards

Remember to use Railcards for some of the biggest train discounts this Easter. You'll save a third on your fare for bank holidays days out with the 16-25 Railcard, Family & Friends Railcard and Senior Railcard. The discount applies when you book tickets on TrainPal.

Easter train travel FAQs

  • Do trains run on Easter Sunday?

    Yes, trains do run on Easter Sunday and usually follow a standard Sunday timetable. There may be rail engineering work taking place, though, so be sure to double check schedules when planning your trip.

  • Do my Railcard discounts apply on Bank Holidays?

    Yes, Railcard discounts do apply on all bank holidays, meaning you can save on third on your fare for exciting Easter days out. Remember, you can use your Railcard to save a third when booking on TrainPal.

  • When can I book Easter train tickets?

    Train tickets go on sale 12 weeks before, so you can book for the 4-day Easter bank holiday weekend usually from around January.

  • Are trains cheaper on Easter Monday?

    Trains can often be cheaper on Easter Monday as this is a bank holiday and Off-Peak fares apply all day. That said, try to book early as it may be a busy day for people travelling home at the end of the long weekend.

  • Will there be rail replacement buses during Easter?

    If there are engineering works taking place on your route this Easter, National Rail will operate rail replacement bus services to take you to your destination.

  • Can I travel with a bike on the train during Easter?

    Yes, you can normally travel on a train with your bike over Easter, but it all depends on the operator. Keep in mind, too, that it's often first come, first served and some train providers require you to reserve a space in advance.