Halifax to London by train — from Sunday
Tuesday, 18 May 2010
The first direct train to London will run from Halifax on Sunday 23 May. The new West Riding service will restore direct trains to London for the first time in over 30 years. Trains run on Sunday at 08:06, 12:22 and 15:46.
The new service offers three direct Intercity style services a day between Halifax and London King’s Cross, with a fastest journey time to the capital of just 2 hours and 58 minutes.
The former British Rail service from Halifax to London, which ended in May 1978, took 4 hours and 22 minutes to complete the journey.
Trains will depart Halifax for London at the following times on weekdays:
07:08 (arr 10:06), 10:38 (arr 13:46) and 15:36 (arr 18:46)
Return services direct to Halifax from London will depart King’s Cross at:
10:50 (arr 13:41), 14:20 (arr 17:24) and 19:48 (arr 22:58)
Grand Central has also recruited 30 Bradford based members of staff in roles ranging from train driver to customer service assistant and support staff to operate the new service, most of whom have been recruited from along the new West Riding route.
Tom Clift, managing director of Grand Central said: "Grand Central serves the parts other train operators can’t reach! We are delighted to provide Calderdale with its first direct rail service to the Capital for over 30 years. We look forward to playing our part in the local community — working with local businesses, suppliers and the tourism industry to stimulate economic growth as well as promoting the area as a travel destination easily accessible from the South East by rail."