Transport for Wales (TfW) has announced the introduction of one of the biggest timetable changes in a generation.

From 17 May 2026, plans are in place for an improved timetable to offer more services and simpler journeys.

The new timetable will boost trains on the North Wales Coast Line by around fifty per cent, improving capacity, reliability, and regional connectivity as part of the wider Network North Wales initiative.

Covering all routes North and West of Shrewsbury and Crewe, except the Borderlands Line, the redesign introduces a clear hourly pattern, with many trains departing at the same time each hour to make travel easier to plan.

One of the most significant upgrades will be more frequent and higher-capacity trains between Chester and Llandudno Junction, one of the network’s busiest sections.

Key route changes include extending services from Manchester Airport to Holyhead, linking with ferries to Ireland, and extending the Liverpool-Chester route to Llandudno. The hourly Wrexham-Chester and Chester-Crewe services will also be merged into a single through route.

Passengers in West Wales will see extra trains on holiday routes such as Carmarthen to Tenby, plus additional Sunday services during late summer.

The changes will also support the rollout of Pay As You Go ticketing, launching on 18 May between Wrexham General railway station and Bidston railway station.

Passengers are advised to check journeys in advance as stopping patterns and connections will change.

“This is fantastic news for passengers.

“Alongside a generational £14bn investment in Welsh rail, new trains and a fare freeze, the new timetable change is another huge improvement for public transport.

“This amounts to almost a doubling of TfW services on the North Wales Coast Line and vitally important additional trains on busy holiday routes across West Wales.

Ken Skates, Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales.

 “We’re really pleased to have supported the introduction of enhanced services for communities along the North Wales Coast and into the North of England.

“Improving connectivity is vital, and this uplift will make it easier for people to travel, while strengthening links between regions.”

Emma Osborn, Passenger Strategy Director at Network Rail Wales and Borders.