Network Rail North West

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Easter 2026: West Coast Main Line Improvements

Improvements to the the West Coast Main Line this year will take place over the Easter period between April 3-19, 2026.

The West Coast Main Line is one of Britain s economic backbones. It connects London, the Midlands, the North West and Scotland, carrying around 2,000 trains a day nearly 8 per cent of all UK rail services. Demand is growing fast and passenger numbers are expected to double by 2050. Some parts of the route are ageing, which can mean slower journeys, cancellations and last minute changes.

For these reasons this will be the biggest upgrade to the northern section of the West Coast line in more than 50 years. The Easter works will form an important early phase of this investment.

For more information about this major rail improvement program click here.