Overview

East Midlands Trains (EMT) was a UK train operating company providing intercity, regional, and commuter services across the East Midlands and surrounding regions. Operated by Stagecoach Group, EMT ran services between London St Pancras, the East Midlands, South Yorkshire, and various regional destinations from 2007 to 2019.

The franchise combined long-distance intercity services with regional and local trains, serving major cities such as Nottingham, Leicester, Derby, and Sheffield, as well as smaller towns and commuter routes.

EMT began operations on 11 November 2007, taking over from Midland Mainline and the regional services previously run by East Midlands Regional Railways. The company operated under Stagecoach Group ownership until August 2019, when the franchise was succeeded by East Midlands Railway.

During its tenure, EMT focused on improving journey times, modernising rolling stock, and enhancing station facilities across its network.

EMT’s network spanned the East Midlands and beyond, linking London with regional and intercity destinations.

Highlights included:

• Intercity services between London St Pancras, Leicester, Nottingham, Derby, and Sheffield

• Regional services to Lincoln, Mansfield, Grantham, Corby, and other towns

• Connections to East Midlands Airport via East Midlands Parkway

• Commuter and local services serving towns and smaller communities

EMT operated a variety of rolling stock, including:

• High-Speed Trains (HSTs, InterCity 125) for intercity services between London and the East Midlands

• Class 222 Meridian trains for faster intercity services

• Diesel multiple units such as Class 158s, 153s, and 156s for regional routes

HSTs and Meridians provided Standard and First Class seating, onboard catering, Wi-Fi (on later refurbished trains), power sockets, and quiet coach options. First Class offered larger seats, complimentary meals, and a quieter environment.

Passengers could choose from Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets, as well as season tickets for commuters. EMT also offered discounts for railcard holders and group travel.

First Class provided premium seating, meals, and a quieter carriage, while regional and commuter trains focused on practical and affordable travel.

EMT was generally well-regarded for its intercity reliability, station upgrades, and fleet refurbishments, though some regional routes experienced capacity constraints at peak times. Its HST services were especially valued for speed and comfort on long-distance journeys.

The franchise successfully maintained a balance between intercity efficiency and regional connectivity, laying the groundwork for East Midlands Railway’s later operations.

• The London to Sheffield journey on an HST took around 2 hours 10 minutes.

• East Midlands Trains operated from 2007 until it was succeeded by East Midlands Railway in 2019.

• The franchise livery featured a distinctive blue, red, and white design, giving the trains a modern, identifiable appearance.

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• 2008 - Summer
• 2008-09 - Winter
• 2012 - Summer
• 2012-13 - Winter
• 2013 - Summer
• 2013-14 - Winter
• 2014 - Summer
• 2014-15 - Winter
• 2015 - Summer
• 2015-16 - Winter
• 2016 - Summer
• 2017 - Summer
• 2017-18 - Winter
• 2018 - Summer
• 2018-19 - Winter