British holidaymakers planning staycations are set to enjoy better rail connections from December 2025.
The Office of Rail and Road (ORR) has given the green light to new train services on the East Coast Main Line, making it easier to explore the UK without the hassle of airports.
The approved services from Lumo, Grand Central and Hull Trains will create fresh direct rail connections between London King's Cross and destinations like Glasgow, Hull and Newcastle.
There's even better access to the North East coast, with Seaham joining the rail map. The rail regulator has approved several new services to start in December. Lumo will run an extra weekday return journey between London King's Cross and Newcastle, plus additional Saturday and Sunday services.
Lumo will operate direct routes between London and Glasgow
| PAThey're also extending some Edinburgh trains all the way to Glasgow - two northbound and one southbound on weekdays, with one in each direction on Sundays.
Grand Central is boosting local connections, too. They'll add two weekday and Saturday services from Wakefield Kirkgate to Bradford Interchange, plus one in the opposite direction. Sunday travellers get one extra service each way between these stations.
Hull Trains will operate one additional northbound weekday and Saturday service between London and Hull.
Passengers will love having more direct routes without the need to change trains. The new Seaham stops mean visitors can reach this charming coastal town straight from existing services - perfect for beach lovers and those wanting to explore Durham's heritage coastline.
The improved connections between Wakefield and Bradford are particularly welcome. More frequent services make it easier for people to travel between these West Yorkshire cities for work or leisure.
With extra trains running on weekends too, it's ideal for spontaneous trips. Whether you fancy Glasgow's vibrant culture scene or Newcastle's famous nightlife, getting there just got simpler.
The rail regulator turned down some proposals due to limited track capacity and concerns about performance impacts or costs to public funds. Hull Trains' bid for new London to Sheffield services didn't get approval.
The ORR weighed up several factors when making these decisions. They focused on encouraging more people to use Britain's railways, supporting train operators, and fostering competition that benefits passengers.
STAYCATION TIPS
The trains will make it easier to get between the two cities
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ORR's director of strategy, policy and reform, Stephanie Tobyn, said: "Approving these additional open access services will increase connectivity on the East Coast Main Line.
"Importantly, we have ensured the approval of these services can be accommodated alongside the major service uplifts by other operators, which have been planned into the December 2025 timetable, so together, passengers and freight customers can benefit from more direct connections and greater choice from December."
Looking for more ways to travel by train? The UK's most scenic rail routes have been named, with a "delightful" journey topping this list.
Taking the top spot is the Tamar Valley Line, which received an impressive 'scenic train score' of 9.05 out of 10. This route goes between Plymouth and Gunnislake.