Travel between Leeds and York is set to face significant upheaval this winter as a major rail upgrade project takes centre stage. Passengers will encounter extended service interruptions on the route as part of the transformative “Transpennine Route Upgrade” programme, marking a critical phase of infrastructure modernisation in the north of England.
The upgrade covers the vital section between Leeds and York and will unfold over a prolonged period from 25 December through to 25 January. During this time, full closures, service diversions and bus replacements will impact travellers, particularly those planning journeys over the festive season and into the New Year.
Disruptions at a glance
- On 25-26 December, the line will be fully closed in line with the annual network holiday pause.
- From 27-29 December (until 11:30 am) trains between Leeds and York/Selby will not run; rail replacement buses will be in operation.
- From 29 December to 3 January, trains will run between Leeds and Micklefield/Selby but not between Leeds and York—bus replacements will serve the gap.
- From 4 January through 25 January, trains between Leeds and York will operate, but via a diversion route through Castleford; meanwhile the Micklefield to Church Fenton section will be closed, requiring further planning from travellers.
Why the disruption matters
These works form part of the broader Transpennine Route Upgrade (TRU), a multi-billion-pound initiative aimed at transforming the rail corridor that links key northern cities. The section between Leeds and York is undergoing major signal installation, 3 km of track replacement, eight new switches and crossings, and significant remodelling around Church Fenton including platform realignment and a passing loop—allowing faster trains to overtake slower ones and reducing bottlenecks.
In addition, overhead electric line equipment is being installed so the route can accommodate greener, quieter electric trains in future. These upgrades will shorten journeys, increase reliability and deliver the capacity needed for both passenger and freight traffic.
Impact on travellers
While the long-term benefits promise smoother, faster and more frequent services, the immediate impact will be disruption. Rail replacement buses will stand in for several services, but these will typically take longer and could be susceptible to traffic delays. Frequent travellers between Leeds and York—or those planning festive and New Year trips—are urged to check updated timetables and anticipate altered travel patterns.
Alternate travel options may need to be considered: earlier departures, alternate stations, or different modes of transport. Connections may take longer, and logistics such as bicycle transport or accessibility may be affected on bus replacements. Staying informed and flexible will be key.
For tourism-focused travellers, the disruption presents both a challenge and an opportunity. The Leeds–York corridor is rich in heritage, city breaks and countryside escapes; however, during this upgrade window, journeys may include transfers or use different routes. Those aware of the works can choose to travel outside peak upgrade periods, or plan side excursions while replacement transport is in place.
What you should do
- Check live travel information from your train operator or national rail enquiry systems in advance.
- Be prepared to allow extra journey time, particularly during the December-January window.
- If travelling around 29 December to 3 January, expect no direct train between Leeds and York—bus service will be the only option.
- During January, note that services via Micklefield to Church Fenton will be suspended and trains rerouted via Castleford, so plan accordingly.
- Consider staying in one place longer or exploring destinations accessible by bus or alternative train routes if your original plan involves the closed section.
What this means for the region
The upgrade of the Leeds-York section is emblematic of the TRU’s broader ambition: to modernise the rail spine across the north, improve connectivity, enable growth, and shift journeys onto more sustainable transport. Once completed, travellers will benefit from faster inter-city links, more room on trains, quieter rides, reduced carbon emissions and fewer delays. For the visitor economy in Leeds, York and the surrounding region, improved rail links will enhance the attractiveness of rail-based city breaks and weekend escapes.
In conclusion
This winter’s interruption between Leeds and York is more than a temporary inconvenience—it is a stepping-stone toward a stronger, more modern rail network. While travellers will need to plan carefully and allow extra time during the December 25–January 25 window, the outcome promises a better journey experience, enhanced access and greener travel in the years ahead. Whether you’re a local commuter, a festive-season visitor, or a weekend-break traveller, awareness of the disruption will be key—and those who adapt will still find rich rewards between these historic northern cities.
For more travel news like this, keep reading Global Travel Wire
