Overview

Avanti West Coast is a UK train operating company running long-distance intercity services on the West Coast Main Line. Operated by FirstGroup and Trenitalia, it took over from Virgin Trains in December 2019. The network connects London Euston with major cities including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow, and Edinburgh, as well as destinations such as Chester, Shrewsbury, and North Wales.

Avanti West Coast is one of the UK’s most important intercity operators, linking England, Scotland, and Wales through frequent and high-capacity services.

Avanti West Coast began operations on 8 December 2019, replacing Virgin Trains after over two decades of service on the West Coast Main Line. The new operator inherited the Pendolino and Super Voyager fleets, while also committing to future investment in upgraded rolling stock and digital ticketing.

Since launch, the franchise has faced challenges including the COVID-19 pandemic, timetable reductions, and capacity issues. Despite this, Avanti has remained central to the UK rail network, providing critical links across the country’s busiest intercity corridor.

The Avanti West Coast network is built around the London Euston hub, with services stretching across England, Scotland, and Wales.

Highlights include:

• High-frequency services between London, Birmingham, Manchester, and Liverpool

• Long-distance services to Glasgow and Edinburgh along the West Coast Main Line

• Routes extending to North Wales, Chester, and Shrewsbury

• One of the fastest and busiest main lines in the UK

Avanti West Coast primarily operates a fleet of Class 390 Pendolino electric trains and Class 221 Super Voyagers, though the latter are gradually being phased out. New Hitachi-built Class 805 and 807 trains are expected to replace existing diesel and electric stock, improving efficiency and passenger comfort.

Onboard facilities include Standard and First Class seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and catering services. First Class passengers benefit from larger seats, complimentary meals, and lounge access at key stations.

A range of ticket types are available including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime fares. Seat reservations are strongly recommended, especially for longer journeys. Avanti West Coast also offers discounted fares through railcards, group travel promotions, and flexible season ticket options.

First Class passengers enjoy at-seat dining, priority seating areas, and complimentary refreshments, making it a popular choice for business travellers.

Avanti West Coast has been praised for the speed and frequency of its services, but has faced criticism for overcrowding, ticket pricing, and operational reliability, particularly during periods of disruption. Nevertheless, it remains one of the most significant operators in the UK, carrying millions of passengers annually.

Future developments include the introduction of new Hitachi trains, continued investment in digital ticketing, and integration with wider rail reforms.

• The Pendolino trains tilt on curves, allowing faster speeds on the winding West Coast Main Line.

• The London to Manchester journey takes just over two hours on the fastest services.

• The Avanti West Coast livery features dark blue, white, and orange accents, symbolising speed and modernity.

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• 2019 - Summer
• 2019-20 - Winter