We only show information concerning engineering works up to 12 weeks in advance.
We and our partners at Network Rail are always working hard to maintain and improve the rail network. We try to keep disruption to a minimum by carrying out engineering works at the weekend or over holiday periods where we can, but this isn’t always possible.
If we need to close train lines for engineering works, we’ll provide buses to replace the affected trains. We will need to alter train services over a wider area, for example to connect with buses, so you should always check whether your journey will be affected.
Rail replacement buses
Keeping You Moving During Rail Disruption
We understand how important it is for customers to be able to complete their journeys with confidence, particularly when planned engineering works or unexpected disruption mean trains cannot run as scheduled.
From 1 August 2026, new accessibility regulations for buses and coaches used in rail replacement services came into effect. Known as the Public Service Vehicles Accessible Information Regulations (PSVAIR), these requirements mean that vehicles must provide both audio and visual journey information to customers.
These changes, alongside existing requirements for accessible vehicles and the limited availability of suitable buses and coaches across the industry, can make it more difficult to secure replacement transport, particularly during unexpected disruption when vehicles may be required quickly and in significant numbers.
As a result, there may occasionally be fewer replacement buses or coaches available than we would normally expect. This could mean longer waiting times, busier services or short notice changes. We recognise that this can be difficult for all of our customers, particularly those who rely on accessible transport or require additional assistance to travel.
We remain committed to providing rail replacement transport wherever possible and are working closely with suppliers and industry partners to minimise any impact on customer journeys. We recognise the importance of accessible travel and continue to prioritise arrangements that allow all customers to travel with confidence.
What are we doing to help?
South Western Railway continues to work closely with our rail replacement transport suppliers and industry partners to secure suitable vehicles. We are also working to keep customers informed about changes to journeys and to identify alternative travel arrangements where required.
We encourage all customers to check their journey before travelling, allow additional time where possible and review the latest travel information before setting out. If you have accessibility requirements or need assistance, please contact our Passenger Assistance team in advance, or speak to a member of staff if your journey is affected on the day.
We sincerely apologise for any inconvenience these challenges may cause. We recognise the impact that disruption has and remain committed to providing clear information, practical support and the best possible alternative travel arrangements whenever our train services cannot operate as planned.
Thank you for your patience and understanding.
Overnight trains
Engineering works affect trains at night more than during the day. If you’re planning to travel after 2300 or before 0530 then check train times carefully, to make sure that you can complete your journey safely. Sometimes this work has to be arranged at short notice, for example if emergency repairs have to be made, so please check our live travel update page.
Unscheduled delays
Sometimes we have to alter trains at short notice for reasons beyond our control. Check out our live travel updates page for up-to-date information on any changes or cancellations.
National Rail Enquiries can provide you with detailed information about train delays and cancellations anywhere on the network. Call 0345 748 4950 or visit nationalrail.co.uk.
Luggage on replacement buses
If engineering works are affecting our trains then we may use replacement buses, or even taxis, to get you to your destination. Unfortunately there’s no room on replacement buses or taxis to carry prams and pushchairs that do not fold, cycles, animals (with the exception of assistance dogs) or bulky luggage. We apologise in advance for any inconvenience.
If we need to close train lines for engineering works, we’ll provide buses to replace the affected trains. We will need to alter train services over a wider area to connect with buses, so you should always check whether your journey will be affected.
If we need to close train lines for engineering works, we’ll provide buses to replace the affected trains. We will need to alter train services over a wider area to connect with buses, so you should always check whether your journey will be affected.
Accessible rail replacement vehicles
Wherever possible, we try to ensure that rail replacement vehicles are accessible to you. However, not all coaches available to us have wheelchair access and we are working with government and our suppliers to increase their availability and supply. To ensure we can meet your needs during engineering work, please book in advance so that there isn’t a wait at the station if you require an alternative vehicle and your journey can go smoothly. You can book assistance on our accessible travel page.
