UK train operators facing high delays and cancellations

Recent analysis has identified the UK train operators with the highest rates of cancellations and delays. The study comes at a time when train fares have risen by 4.6%, pushing many passengers to consider railcards, which have also seen a £5 increase. According to the data, Avanti West Coast had the poorest performance, with nearly 60% of its trains delayed in 2025. It operated routes from London to cities like Glasgow and Birmingham but only managed to run 41.1% of its services on time. Other companies with significant delay rates included Grand Central, CrossCountry, and TransPennine Express. Train cancellations are also a major issue. In the last quarter of 2024, nearly 57,000 trains were fully cancelled. Northern Trains had the highest cancellation rate of 6.5%. CrossCountry and Govia Thameslink Railway followed closely, each with 5.8% of their services cancelled. Keith Hawes, a director at Nationwide Vehicle Contracts, expressed concern that these reliable service issues may push commuters to drive instead. This shift could result in increased traffic congestion, especially during peak hours. Experts suggest that drivers adjust their travel times and seek alternative routes to avoid city center traffic. As the rail system faces these challenges, passengers will need to navigate their travel plans carefully.