Rail and cycle
Combining cycling and rail can be a convenient way to make longer journeys without a car. Many train services allow bicycles on board, but spaces are limited and the rules differ between train operators, routes and train types. Always check the relevant train operator’s cycle policy before you travel. National Rail also provides general advice on travelling with bicycles and links to individual train company cycle policies.
Folding bikes can usually be taken on trains at no extra cost, provided they are folded and stored safely as luggage. National Rail advises that folded bikes should be covered, ideally using a dedicated carrying case.
Full-size bikes can be carried on many services, but cycle spaces are limited. Some services require a reservation, while others carry bikes on a first come, first served basis. Train operators can refuse to carry a bicycle if there is not enough space for it to be carried safely.
Bikes must be kept in the designated cycle spaces and must not block doors, aisles or other passengers. Bikes are carried at the owner’s risk.
Great Western Railway services
Great Western Railway recommends reserving a bicycle space on its long-distance services, as spaces are limited. Reservations can be made for free when buying tickets online or after buying tickets through the “MyAccount” section of GWR.com, by calling GWR on 0345 7000 125, or at a staffed ticket office. Reservations can be made up to one hour before the train leaves its origin station – note that for long-distance services, this could be several hours before travel.
On GWR services, folding bikes with wheels up to 20 inches can be taken on any train without restriction, but they must be folded before boarding. GWR also advises passengers to arrive on the platform at least five minutes before the train is due to depart and to use the designated hooks, straps or holders where provided.
GWR permits road-legal e-bikes, provided they meet the relevant requirements, but e-scooters are not allowed on GWR trains or at GWR stations.
For the latest information, check the Great Western Railway cycle and scooter policy before travelling.
South Western Railway services
South Western Railway carries bikes on many services, but spaces are limited and are not guaranteed. Where no specific restriction applies, bicycles are generally carried on a first come, first served basis, subject to space being available and staff being satisfied that the bike can be carried safely.
Peak-time restrictions apply on some South Western Railway services, particularly services arriving at or departing from London Waterloo and services at Clapham Junction. Bikes cannot be taken on or off trains due to arrive at London Waterloo between 07:15 and 10:00, or trains leaving London Waterloo between 16:45 and 19:00.
If you are travelling on the London Waterloo to Salisbury or Exeter route, you need to reserve a cycle space in advance. Reservations can be made when booking online, at a staffed station, or through the South Western Railway Customer Service Centre on 0345 600 0650 and must be made at least 24 hours before travel.
Privately owned e-scooters and modified e-bikes that do not comply with EAPC regulations are not permitted anywhere on South Western Railway premises, including stations, platforms and trains. Privately owned e-bikes that meet EAPC regulations are permitted, but must not be charged on trains or railway premises.
For the latest information, check the South Western Railway cycle policy before travelling.
E-bikes, e-scooters and other types of cycles
Road-legal e-bikes can be taken on most trains, but passengers should check the relevant train operator’s rules before travelling. National Rail describes road-legal e-bikes as pedal-assisted electric bicycles with a motor with a maximum continuous rated power output of 250 watts and no electrical assistance above 15.5mph.
Different rules apply to tandems, tricycles, trailers, cargo bikes and other non-standard cycles. National Rail advises that motorcycles, tricycles and bicycle trailers are generally not permitted, and GWR states that tandems, tricycles, bike trailers, motorbikes, mopeds, cargo bikes, petrol scooters, hoverboards, e-skateboards and e-scooters cannot be carried on its services.
E-scooters are not permitted on GWR trains or at GWR stations, and privately owned e-scooters are not permitted on South Western Railway trains or railway premises.
Rail replacement buses
Non-folding bicycles are generally not carried on rail replacement buses. National Rail advises that folding bikes are usually allowed on buses if there is space and if the bike is fully folded and stowed as luggage, although space cannot be guaranteed. If travelling with a non-folding bicycle, it is advisable to check for engineering work before travel.
At the station and on the train
Arrive in good time, especially if you are taking a full-size bicycle. It is advisable that passengers taking bikes should be on the platform at least five minutes before departure, so station staff can help identify the correct doors for cycle spaces and arrange any assistance that may be needed.
Look for the cycle symbol on the train or ask station staff where to wait. Use the designated cycle space and remove loose items such as panniers before storing your bike. GWR advises passengers not to lock their bike to any part of the train.
Cycling is not allowed within stations, so please walk with your bike while on railway premises.
Cycle parking and cycle hire
Many stations provide cycle parking. National Rail recommends using its station information pages to check cycle parking facilities before travelling. Cycle hire is available in parts of Wiltshire, please see our cycle hire page for more information.
