The latest data from the Department for Transport (Dft) has unveiled the most congested train services in England and Wales. According to the report, a Thameslink service from Bedford to Three Bridges recorded a peak load of 176% upon reaching London St Pancras at 8:09 am.
Similarly, evening rush hour services were also heavily crowded, with a West Midlands-operated train from London Euston to Crewe hitting 170% capacity at 5:46 pm at Euston. Additionally, a Transport for Wales train from Bridgend to Rhymney was at 161% capacity by 4:45 pm upon reaching Llanishen.
The DfT data, collected on a typical autumn weekday between September 16 and December 13, 2025, highlighted that during peak hours, one in five passengers (20%) had to stand, a number that rose to one in four passengers in London. Peak times were defined as trains arriving in city centers between 7 am and 9:59 am and departing between 4 pm and 6:59 pm.
Despite the overcrowding, the overall situation showed improvement, with an average of 16,800 passengers daily traveling beyond capacity, representing 1.1% of all travelers, a decrease of 0.2% from autumn 2024. London witnessed the highest influx of passengers, with 1,256,600 daily arrivals, significantly surpassing Birmingham, which had around 116,700 daily arrivals, marking a 3% increase compared to 2024.
A spokesperson from the DfT emphasized that 98.9% of passengers do not experience overcrowding, and measures are being taken to address peak hour congestion, such as adding carriages and increasing train capacity. The integration of track and train under Great British Railways aims to enhance services for passenger benefit.
Thameslink responded by mentioning their efforts to accommodate passengers efficiently, citing the design of their trains to cater to high traffic routes. They highlighted ongoing adjustments to provide more space for passengers, including train lengthening and additional peak-time services.
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