More Seats and Schedule Changes Affect Travel Across Northern England

Starting from Sunday 18 May TransPennine Express will introduce a new timetable affecting services across northern England and parts of Scotland. A key update is the addition of six-carriage trains on Saturdays along the Liverpool to Cleethorpes route. This improvement which was first applied to weekday services in December 2024 is now extended to weekends offering more seating and reducing crowding during popular travel times.

The update mainly applies to the operator’s South Route connecting Liverpool Lime Street with Cleethorpes and stopping at stations including Warrington Manchester Doncaster Meadowhall Sheffield and Grimsby. While most other services will remain unchanged travellers are advised to double-check the new schedules as slight timing shifts on some routes may affect familiar journeys.

The temporary closure of Huddersfield station could create difficulties for certain passengers. To maintain connections during this time, replacement transport options including bus services will be provided. Travellers are encouraged to prepare in advance and check TransPennine Express’s official resources for the latest information regarding any changes to services and details on alternative travel arrangements.

Those planning a short break will have a range of exciting places to explore along the line. In Manchester, tourists can tour the legendary Old Trafford stadium, explore the buzzing Northern Quarter, or admire the collections at the Manchester Art Gallery. Sheffield invites travellers to unwind in its Botanical Gardens or enjoy the food and drink scene in Kelham Island. Doncaster offers Georgian architecture and a historic market, while Cleethorpes is perfect for a seaside escape with sandy beaches and a classic pier.

In the bigger picture the timetable update reflects TPE’s intention to improve passenger experience especially for those who rely on weekend travel. Although planned engineering work will affect Huddersfield station from late August to late September the broader improvements show a focus on reliability and comfort. For travellers this means more freedom and better conditions when exploring destinations across the North.