Carrying Bicycles & Wheelchairs On Trains

A limited number of bicycles, wheelchairs, prams, electric scooters and similar items can be carried on most train services, although each train line has different rules and procedures about carriage.

Bicycles

Folding bicycles can be taken on any train service and placed in the usual luggage racks. A limited number of full size bicycles can be carried on services. Check with individual operators for carriage of tandems, cycle trailers and motorised cycles.

• First Great Western.
Carry a maximum of 2 bicycles on local services to smaller stations. Often carry more on high-speed services to London Waterloo, Bristol and Exeter. Reservations are needed on some, but not all, services.

• Crosscountry
Carry 2 or 4 bicycles on services through Somerset. Reservation recommended but not compulsory. Reservations are free and can be made at stations or by calling 0844 811 0124

• South West Trains.
Most trains carry 2 bicycles. Reservations
are compulsory and can be made at staffed stations or by calling 0845 6000 650 at least 24 hrs before travel.

Wheelchairs and Powered Scooters

All trains in Somerset can carry at least one wheelchair, and all operators have a policy of providing assistance to passengers who have made arrangements at least 24 hours in advance.

Most operators, however, will not carry the larger types of powered scooter, as these are too heavy for the access ramps and too large to enter the carriages. The maximum dimensions allowed on most services are 120cm length, 70 cm width and 300kg in weight (inc passenger). If your scooter or wheelchair is approaching these dimensions, it is best to check with the rail company in advance.

In all cases, as wheelchair spaces are limited on trains, it is advisable to book in advance.

• First Great Western
Booking 24 hrs in advance recommended, but not compulsory. 0800 197 1329.

• Crosscountry
Booking 24 hrs in advance recommended, but not compulsory. 0844 811 0125

• South West Trains
Booking 24 hrs in advance recommended, but not compulsory for wheelchair users. 0800 52 82 100 or online. It is compulsory for powered scooter users to obtain a Scooter Card before using South West Trains. This must be applied for at least 7 days before travel by calling 0845 6000 650.