Overview

Hull Trains is a UK open-access train operating company that originally began service in 2000, providing direct long-distance rail links between London King’s Cross and Hull. Founded by British entrepreneur Mike Jones, the company was created to fill a gap in the market for direct services to Hull, which had previously been poorly served by franchised operators. The original Hull Trains service became known for its focus on customer service, flexible schedules, and a personal approach to rail travel, offering a premium alternative on the East Coast Main Line. Its distinctive green and grey livery made it easily recognisable to passengers and rail enthusiasts alike.

The original Hull Trains operation launched on 18 October 2000 as one of the first open-access operators in the UK following privatisation. At the time, the East Coast Main Line was dominated by franchised operators, and Hull Trains filled a niche by providing direct services from London to Hull without the need to change trains at Doncaster. The company began with a small fleet of Class 170 Turbostar diesel multiple units, later supplemented by Class 222 Meridian trains, offering faster and more comfortable long-distance services. Over time, Hull Trains gained a reputation for reliable, friendly service and competitive pricing. The original operation remained independently owned until it was eventually acquired and integrated into the current FirstGroup-owned franchise in the 2010s.

The original Hull Trains service ran primarily between London King’s Cross and Hull, stopping at key intermediate stations such as Selby, Doncaster, and occasionally other towns in Yorkshire depending on the timetable. As an open-access operator, it focused on filling service gaps rather than competing head-to-head with franchise operators, offering fewer but more direct and convenient journeys for business and leisure travellers. The service was particularly valued by passengers travelling between Hull and London for work or regional connections.

Hull Trains initially operated Class 170 Turbostar DMUs, chosen for their flexibility on partially electrified routes. These were later replaced by Class 222 Meridian diesel-electric multiple units, providing faster journey times, improved seating, air-conditioning, and onboard catering. First Class and Standard Class were both offered, with First Class featuring larger seats, complimentary refreshments, and quieter carriages. The green and grey livery, combined with modern interiors, helped establish Hull Trains’ brand as a comfortable, customer-focused alternative to franchised services.

Passengers could book tickets through the company’s website, over the phone, or at stations, with Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime fares available. The original Hull Trains also offered season tickets for frequent travellers between Hull and London. As an open-access operator, the company had the flexibility to adjust timetables and pricing to meet demand, making it particularly popular with business travellers seeking convenient direct services.

The original Hull Trains quickly gained a reputation for reliability, punctuality, and attentive customer service, often outperforming franchised operators on passenger satisfaction for its route. Its open-access model allowed the company to focus on passenger needs rather than broader franchise obligations, making it a pioneer in demonstrating the potential of independent long-distance operators in the UK. Although the original independent operation was eventually acquired, Hull Trains’ early years are remembered for innovation, service quality, and establishing a direct rail link that had long been absent from the market.

• Hull Trains was one of the first open-access operators in the UK, starting service in 2000.

• The company initially used Class 170 Turbostar DMUs before upgrading to Class 222 Meridian trains.

• The distinctive green and grey livery made Hull Trains instantly recognisable on the East Coast Main Line.

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• 2000 - Summer
• 2000-01 - Winter
• 2002-03 - Winter
• 2003 - Summer
• 2004 - Summer
• 2004-05 - Winter
• 2005 - Summer
• 2005-06 - Winter
• 2006 - Summer
• 2006-07 - Winter
• 2007 - Summer
• 2007-08 - Winter