UK Rail and Trains

Rail union RMT, today published survey results revealing Trainline's destructive practice of ripping off passengers, misleading the general public, and undermining the integrity of the railways. The survey, which asked more than 2,600 rail workers about their experiences, uncovered a range of serious problems with Trainline's ticketing system — bogus tickets, excessive pricing, and confusing fare options. The results show that Trainline does not deliver best-value fares and has put profits ahead of its commitment to deliver a public service. Trainline is set to release its half-year results today, following a September update revealing £2bn in ticket sales and a 17% revenue increase to £106m in the first half of the year. RMT General Secretary Mick Lynch said “Trainline is a profiteering machine that’s ripping off passengers and unnecessarily costing taxpayers. “Their model relies on hidden fees, deceptive ticket options, and overpriced fares – all designed to boost shareholder profits at the public’s expense.”

Merseyrail’s Maghull station has emerged victorious in the national grand final of the World Cup of Stations 2024, securing the title of Britain’s best railway station.

Forty-eight stations across the country battled for glory before the Sefton station beat finalists King’s Lynn and Dorridge in Friday’s decisive public vote to claim top spot.

This year’s World Cup of Stations celebrated the diverse businesses found in train stations across the country, highlighting facilities such as delis, florists, and cafes that enrich local communities and economies.

Maghull’s success is largely attributed to both its fantastic station team and to its popular café, ‘The Coffee Carriage,’ which opened in 2024. Founded by two local entrepreneurs, the café quickly became a community hub, offering a range of hot drinks, artisan bakes, and a welcoming atmosphere that has drawn both regular commuters and residents.

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The competition, organised by Rail Delivery Group, saw participation from stations across Great Britain, with more than 72,000 votes cast in previous years. Maghull now joins the ranks of past winners, including Wemyss Bay (2023), Stourbridge Junction (2021), and Huddersfield (2019).