New direct train service links major city to Welsh seaside towns in time for summer

A new direct train service has launched between Liverpool and Llandudno, connecting the two coastal locations in time for summer.

Transport for Wales (TfW) introduced a major timetable change on 17 May, which has allowed for extra capacity and more services along its routes.

One of the major changes includes the direct service between Liverpool Lime Street and Llandudno, a popular seaside town, as passengers previously had to change at Chester. The journey now takes around an hour and 45 minutes, running once an hour between 7am and 7pm.

Also on the route are coastal favourites such as Prestatyn, Rhyl and Colwyn Bay – making them more accessible for a beach staycation or day trip.

The new route will also deliver a significant increase in train frequency and capacity between Chester and Llandudno Junction, which is one of the busiest sections of the Wales and Borders rail network.

TfW said that the timetable change has allowed for services on the North Wales Coast Line to increase by around 50 per cent, strengthening connections between communities.

Other changes to the new timetable also include a standard hourly pattern on key routes north and west of Shrewsbury (excluding Wrexham and Bidston).

In West Wales, extra trains will operate over the summer months, including on holiday routes and on Sundays, in order to support the local tourism economy.

Railway infrastructure and the ticketing system are both getting a makeover to support increased services.

Network Rail is installing new footbridges at Prestatyn and Pensarn to replace high-risk level crossings, so people can use a safe route across the railway.

North Wales has also gained a “pay as you go” payment system, which will cover 15 stations between Wrexham General and Bidston, which TfW says will make travel more flexible and convenient.

The transport network says this launch is building on its successful introduction of “pay as you go” in South East Wales.

Colin Lea, TfW planning and performance director for Transport for Wales, said: “We’re now just days away from delivering a major improvement to rail services as part of Network North Wales.

“The new timetable will bring more frequent trains and better connections for our customers in North and West Wales.

“These changes represent a significant step forward, with a simpler, more consistent timetable and increased capacity across some of our busiest routes.

“Alongside the introduction of pay as you go, we’re making it easier than ever for people to choose rail and travel sustainably.”

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