Snow storm

Winter Weather

When frozen roads make for dangerous driving, train travel is one of the safest modes of transport.

But if you’re travelling by train this winter, when snow is falling and the ground is icy, it’s important to take extra care.

Our guide to winter train travel explains everything you need to know, from how we clear tracks of snow to how you can stay safe on station platforms. 

Do trains run in the snow?

Trains do run in the snow. We collaborate with Network Rail’s Extreme Weather Action Team to minimise the impact of bad weather on journeys. However, after heavy snowfall, passengers may expect delays and, in extreme circumstances, cancellations.

How are trains prepared for snow?

Snow is great for making snow angels, snowmen and snowballs – but not for operating trains! Snow-covered tracks prevent trains from moving between tracks, and frozen tracks and power cables can stop services. That’s why we have measures in place to reduce the impact of snow and ice on our services.

We work with Network Rail's Extreme Weather Action Team, which convenes when we expect severe conditions. Empty passenger trains and, in exceptional circumstances, snow ploughs run through the night to clear tracks, and specialist fleets use hot air blowers, steam jets, brushes, scrapes and anti-freeze to ensure services run smoothly.

Passenger safety is our primary concern, so our drivers are cautious in bad weather. Heavy rain and ice make tracks slippery, so they must brake more slowly, just as you would when driving a car.

We also have preventative measures. We trim large overhanging branches to prevent potential debris from blocking the tracks in snowy or windy weather, and rail heaters stop select track areas from freezing.

Staying safe travelling in winter

While we’re busy gritting platforms and clearing tracks, there’s plenty you can do to ensure safe travel in winter. From planning ahead to wrapping up, here’s what you can do to make sure your journey runs smoothly.

Allow plenty of time

It’s important to plan well whenever you travel, but especially in winter. If your journey's first or final leg involves walking or cycling, leave plenty of time before your train to get to and from the station. We all know the panic of rushing for a train. In winter, when pavements are wet or icy, this can lead to injury. Allowing plenty of time means you can take the extra care needed when walking on slippery ground to minimise your risk of slipping.

Plus, trains are often busier in bad weather when many leave the car at home, so getting to the station early ensures you’ll beat the crowds.

Wear appropriate footwear

On that note, it’s important to wear the correct shoes. In frosty conditions, appropriate footwear is essential. Flat footwear like rubber-soled boots are warm and waterproof, with a good grip to prevent slips. Avoid heels and canvas shoes that aren’t grippy or waterproof – no one wants wet socks and cold feet!

Wrap up

Don’t forget to grab a hat and gloves before leaving the house. ‘Wrap up warm, or you’ll catch a cold’ is more than conventional wisdom! Wearing warm clothing can prevent colds, viruses and infections in the depths of flu season. By wrapping up, you can help yourself stay healthy through winter.

Wearing several thin layers is the best way to keep warm. Once on the train, you can remove layers to prevent overheating.

Dressing appropriately means more than just adding warmth. In winter, when the days are shorter, remember to wear reflective clothing when walking and cycling to and from the station to stay visible to motorists in the dark.

Take care on the platform

Our station teams grit platforms to prevent slippery surfaces in ice and snow conditions. However, you should take extra care on platforms and stairs in winter, which can be slippery when wet. Remember, black ice is not always visible, so never run on the platform, no matter how rushed you are. As always, stand behind the yellow line and mind the gap when boarding the train.

Check for weather warnings

Heavy rainfall, storms, snow and ice can lead to flooded, frozen and obstructed tracks, disrupting services. From clearing tracks to gritting platforms, we do everything we can to reduce the impact of winter weather conditions, but severe weather may affect travel. In such conditions, you may wish to consider whether your journey is essential.

When adverse weather is forecast, we issue weather warnings to inform you of any disruptions to your journey. Checking for weather warnings ensures you’re prepared for potential delays and, in the worst cases, cancellations. It also means you can reduce the risk of getting caught in severe winds, rain, and snow on the second leg of your journey in the event of sudden weather changes.

Use our Travel Updates tool to check your journey and sign up for alerts. Our SWR mobile app will help with all your travel needs, including checking live departure times and the latest delay or cancellation updates.

When the roads are icy, let us drive. Book your train tickets in advance for the best prices. Browse our ticket types to discover cheap train tickets, and check if you can save with a Railcard or GroupSave.