Public transport providers are working hard to keep journeys running smoothly over the coronation weekend (6-7 May), including running additional services and longer trains where possible. Services and stations are expected to be busy and queueing systems may be in place in some areas. Passengers should continue to check real-time travel information throughout their journeys, to take account of any short notice changes that may take place while they are enroute.
To make sure that Londoners and visitors to the capital are able to get around safely and as easily as possible during 6-8 May, the Rail Delivery Group, Network Rail and Transport for London (TfL) are working closely together – along with the Government and other partners. Passengers will enjoy a warm welcome at Network Rail’s managed stations in London, which will be specially decorated for the occasion with entertainment and fun laid on.
Given the likely demand for public transport within London during this period, passengers may wish to consider walking to their final destinations within the capital. TfL will be running a normal service with no planned closures. Travel ambassadors will be on hand at National Rail, London Underground and bus stations to provide directions and assistance. There will be road closures in place and people should avoid driving in central London and use routes that avoid the area if they are not attending the events. Due to road closures, visitors exiting from London Victoria station on Coronation day may only be able to access the screening site at Hyde Park.
Jacqueline Starr, chief executive officer at Rail Delivery Group, said: “Many people from across the country will be travelling over the upcoming weekend to celebrate the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla and the rail industry is working tirelessly to make sure that people can do so in a safe manner.
“We encourage our passengers to check service details before travelling and to be prepared for busy trains and stations.
“For up-to-date travel information, please check www.nationalrail.co.uk/coronation or your train operator’s website. For London travel information visit www.tfl.gov.uk/coronation.”
Network Rail chief executive Andrew Haines said: “We’re proud to be playing a part in bringing thousands of people to celebrate the coronation of King Charles, and our stations will be welcoming people to London with entertainment and special events.”
Andy Lord, London’s Transport Commissioner, said: “We are delighted that London is hosting ceremonial events for the Coronation of Their Majesties King Charles III and Queen Camilla, and look forward to welcoming visitors and Londoners alike for this historic occasion. We expect central London to be very busy and the large-scale events will mean road closures in central London, so I’d advise people to check their journey and route before they travel. All of our public transport network will be running with no planned engineering closures on the day of the Coronation and I’d encourage everyone to make the most of the public transport options.”
Image credit: Rail Delivery Group