Avanti West Coast Makes Railway History with Strategic Route Diversion

Historic Line Returns to Intercity Service

In a significant development for UK rail travel, Avanti West Coast has started running trains on the historic Settle to Carlisle line to keep customers moving across the North West during major engineering works, with the first intercity passenger service to use the 73-mile-long railway in over 10 years departing on 1 January 2026. This strategic move demonstrates the rail operator’s commitment to maintaining seamless connectivity during essential infrastructure improvements.

Essential Engineering Works Drive Diversion

The route diversion is necessary due to critical maintenance on the West Coast Main Line. The line is being used as a diversionary route until 15 January while the West Coast Main Line is blocked between Preston and Carlisle, as Network Rail replaces Clifton Bridge, which takes the railway over the M6 motorway near Penrith in Cumbria. Avanti West Coast is running a shuttle service, using their bi-mode Class 805 Evero trains, roughly every two hours non-stop via the Settle to Carlisle route.

Innovative Fleet Technology Enables Seamless Travel

The success of this diversion relies on Avanti West Coast’s modern bi-mode fleet. The Class 805 Evero bi-mode fleet was introduced in June 2024 and normally runs on the operator’s North Wales, West Midlands and Blackpool routes, with trains able to run on electric or diesel power, allowing the operator to utilise the diesel capability on the Settle to Carlisle line which has no overhead power wires.

Expanding Services and Customer Savings

Beyond the engineering diversion, Avanti West Coast is actively expanding its service offerings. The operator has made 100,000 tickets available on services for travel dates between 13 January and 25 March 2026, offering customers savings of up to 50 percent off select tickets to destinations on the West Coast route. Additionally, Avanti West Coast is set to welcome a unique exhibition train at Crewe station celebrating 200 years of UK railways, marking a significant milestone in British railway history.

Significance for Passengers and Regional Connectivity

This diversion showcases the flexibility and resilience of the UK rail network whilst providing passengers with a unique travel experience through scenic countryside. The strategic planning between Avanti West Coast and Network Rail ensures minimal disruption during essential infrastructure upgrades, maintaining vital connections between northern England and Scotland. For travellers, this represents both continuity of service and an opportunity to experience one of Britain’s most picturesque railway routes, whilst benefiting from modern, efficient rolling stock.