GWR warns Devon travellers to plan ahead as winter timetable and Christmas changes begin

Great Western Railway (GWR) is reminding passengers across Devon and Plymouth to check their train times ahead of the company’s new winter timetable, which comes into effect on Sunday 14 December.

The train operator says changes have been made across the network to reflect current passenger demand and improve overall reliability. 

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GWR is also reminding people travelling for Christmas to book in advance and reserve seats where possible, as some days are expected to be very busy.

As part of the timetable change, GWR will also retire its last three Castle Class trains. 

The 1970s-era sets currently run between Plymouth and Penzance, and are due to make their final planned journeys on Saturday 13 December. 

They will be replaced by the company’s existing fleet, including its returning Class 175 trains, which will be rolled out during 2026.

Christmas travel advice

GWR says engineering work will take place over Christmas and New Year, but the disruption will be lighter than in previous years.

Passengers are advised to avoid the busiest days where possible, with trains expected to be most crowded on:

• Monday 22 December
• Tuesday 23 December
• Saturday 27 December
• Sunday 28 December

The company recommends travelling early in the day for the quietest journey, with services between 10am and 2pm likely to be the busiest. 

As usual, services will finish earlier on Christmas Eve, and no trains will run on Christmas Day or Boxing Day.

Passengers are also reminded to bring only luggage they can carry themselves, as space for large suitcases is limited.

From Saturday 27 December to Sunday 4 January, track renewal work will also affect trains between Devon, the West Country and London Paddington. 

Only two of the four lines will be open, so some services will be amended and may be busier. 

For train passengers from Devon heading North over the Christmas period, they are reminded there will be no direct trains running between Paddington and Cheltenham Spa, and a change at Swindon or Bristol Parkway will be required.

Passengers are reminded to check for any changes online before travelling.