Passengers can now enjoy a direct rail connection between Cardiff and Edinburgh for the first time in nearly 40 years, with CrossCountry launching its new weekday service on 16 December.
This marks the only direct train linking Wales, England, and Scotland.
The inaugural journey was celebrated with a special event at Cardiff Central Station, from which the 0945 service to Edinburgh departed on time from Platform 2A.
“We’re delighted to introduce this new service joining Cardiff and Edinburgh directly by rail – meaning even more connections for customers across the length and breadth of the country.
“Thanks to colleagues across CrossCountry and the wider rail industry for their support in delivering these new services linking two of Great Britain’s capital cities, as well as many other key towns and cities in between.”
The new 455-mile route connects 10 cities and 22 stations, providing one direct service in each direction between Cardiff and Edinburgh every weekday.
“Today in South Wales, we have launched a significant timetable change with more frequent services and more consistent departure times, making it easier for people to use the train.
“In the run-up to this timetable change there was a lot of interest in one particular service: CrossCountry’s direct service from Cardiff to Edinburgh.
“It’s always positive to introduce a new service, especially one that connects people from Cardiff all the way through the Midlands and northern England to Scotland – making it easier for families to stay connected and for business travellers to get to work. The introduction of this service is a wonderful achievement, and it was fantastic to see the railway family here in force to celebrate.”
