Overview

CrossCountry is a major UK train operating company, running the most extensive long-distance rail network in Britain. It is operated by Arriva UK Trains, now owned by Squared Capital following the June 2024 acquisition. CrossCountry was established in 2007 from the restructured Virgin CrossCountry franchise and is unusual among UK operators for not serving London, instead connecting regional cities across the country.

CrossCountry began operations on 11 November 2007, taking over routes previously run by Virgin Trains. Arriva UK Trains, originally part of Deutsche Bahn, transferred to Squared Capital ownership on 4 June 2024. The Department for Transport has extended CrossCountry’s franchise several times, with the current agreement running until 15 October 2027.

CrossCountry’s network stretches across Britain, from Aberdeen and Edinburgh in Scotland down to Penzance in Cornwall, and from Manchester and Newcastle across to Bournemouth, Bristol, and Plymouth.

Highlights include:

• Former operation of the UK’s longest direct rail service (Aberdeen–Penzance), which ran for more than 13 hours before being withdrawn in 2025.

• Direct connections designed to avoid London, giving faster cross-country alternatives for passengers.

CrossCountry operates a varied fleet:

• Voyager (Class 220) and Super Voyager (Class 221) units provide the core long-distance services.

• Turbostar (Class 170) diesel units operate shorter and regional routes, such as Birmingham–Stansted Airport and Nottingham–Cardiff.

• The iconic High Speed Train (HST) sets were withdrawn in 2023.

Onboard features include Standard and First Class seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, quiet coach facilities, and a trolley catering service. First Class passengers also benefit from complimentary refreshments.

Passengers can choose between Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets, with seat reservations strongly recommended during busy times. First Class provides larger seats, a quieter environment, and complimentary food and drink. CrossCountry is also known for offering cheaper operator-only fares, which can represent good value compared to rival intercity services.

CrossCountry has a reputation for offering convenient direct services and a wide geographic reach. However, it has also faced persistent criticism for overcrowding, particularly on Voyager trains that are often shorter than passenger demand requires. Looking ahead, investment from I Squared Capital may lead to further fleet improvements and expansion as the company adapts to changes in the UK rail industry.

• CrossCountry once operated the longest direct train service in the UK from Aberdeen to Penzance, lasting more than 13 hours.

• Its network covers more miles of track than any other UK operator.

• The company’s livery changed from Virgin red to the current maroon and grey design.

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