Cycling by train
National Rail encourages the integrated use of cycles and trains - two convenient and environmentally friendly forms of transport. Some Train Companies have restrictions on when accompanied cycles may be carried, especially at busy times. Details can be found on our Train Companies page: select the Train Company you are travelling with and look at the 'Onboard facilities' section.
Where accompanied cycles are carried there is no charge.
Some general points
- If a cycle reservation is required please make it as far in advance as possible
- Cycles are not carried during periods of restriction as listed below
- Please label your cycle clearly
- Please cover your folded cycle
- Tandems, tricycles and bicycle trailers are not carried unless otherwise stated
- Unaccompanied cycles cannot be carried on any services.
- Motorcycles cannot be carried on any services
- Cycles must be carried in the designated area on trains and must not obstruct doors or aisles
- Cycles are carried at owner’s risk (see National Rail Conditions of Carriage)
Engineering work and cycles
Engineering work may affect train services. Non-folding bicycles are not allowed on rail replacement bus services at any time. Folding bicycles are accepted if fully folded.
Folded cycles
Folding bicycles are carried free of charge and without restriction on all services, subject only to the additional requirements for
specific services set out below:
- c2c and Stansted Express - Folding bicycles should be transported in a protective carrying case
- East Midlands Trains, East Coast and South West Trains - Carried free of charge provided they can be stowed as luggage
- London Overground - Carried free of charge, up to a limit of one per vestibule area at peak times.
Cycling storage and hire
An increasing number of railway stations have good quality cycle storage on or near to the station. Also, many train companies
work with independent cycle companies to offer cycle hire at stations. Search our station facilities" area for more information
on cycle facilities" at stations.
Cycling by train around Europe
RailPassenger.info has links to information on travelling with bicycles on many railways within Europe.
Eurostar.com has information about their cycle policy.
Cycling organisations
The National Rail Cycling by Train leafet is made possible by Brompton cycles, the makers of the folding bike.
- Brompton Bicycle Limited
Lionel Road South, Brentford, Middlesex TW8 9QR
Tel: 020 8232 8484 Fax: 020 8232 8181
Website: www.brompton.co.uk - CTC - The national body for cyclists Tel: 08708 730 060 Fax: 08708 730 064
email: cycling@ctc.org.uk
Website www.ctc.org.uk - A to B magazine - Transport & folding/electric bikes Tel/Fax: 01305 259 998
email: atob@onetel.net.uk
Website: www.atob.org.uk - Sustrans - Cycle routes & sustainable transporttel: 08451 130 065
email: info@sustrans.org.uk
www.sustrans.org.uk - Bike For All - Promoting cycling in the UK
More information
The National Rail Cycling by Train leaflet is easy to download and print for easy reference when cycling. You can also contact the Train Company you are travelling with for more information about their specific facilities for cyclists.
