MANUELA PERTEGHELLA MP IS “CHUFFED” TO ANNOUNCE THAT DIRECT TRAINS TO LONDON WILL BE COMING DOWN THE TRACKS IN 2026

Manuela Perteghella MP for Stratford-on-Avon has been campaigning for direct trains from Stratford-upon-Avon to London to be reinstated since getting elected in 2024. Her hard work has paid off; direct trains will recommence twice daily from 14 December 2026.  

The initial service will include two trains per day that work around theatre matinee performances, meaning that people from across the country can come to experience Shakespeare in his home town. 

Manuela Perteghella, Liberal Democrat MP said: 

 ” I am chuffed to confirm that direct trains to London will be returning to and leaving from Stratford=upon-Avon from 14 December 2026. To start, there will be two services per day that work around the matinee schedule in theatres on weekdays.

“Over the past two years as your local MP, I met with Chiltern Railways, various ministers, and I made the case in Parliament for the reinstatement of direct trains from our great town to the capital.

“The timings have been specifically designed to support weekday visitors visiting our town, shopping, enjoying food and drink in our cafes and restaurants, and attending Royal Shakespeare Company matinee performances, while also providing Stratford residents with a convenient direct return journey from London later in the day, ideal for those wishing to enjoy an afternoon in the capital without changing trains.

“This is a great win for local businesses such as shops, cafes and restaurants and our theatres, and it offers more choice to local people who want to visit the capital. 

“It’s also a great win for constituents who want to be able to move effortlessly between the constituency and the capital. 

Commenting on the ongoing campaign for more commuter trains, Manuela said:

“Commuters may be able to catch one direct train during weekdays, but we need more services to make this a reality for people wishing to commute for work. 

“The welcome return of direct trains to London is a milestone in my campaign, but I want to see more services for my constituents. I will continue to campaign to get a wider range of train services from Stratford-on-Avon to Birmingham, London, Oxford and beyond.”