Henley Royal Regatta boosts train services to accommodate spectators
Enhanced shuttle service from Twyford to Henley-on-Thames to ease travel
Great Western Railway (GWR) is set to double the capacity on its shuttle service between Twyford and Henley-on-Thames in anticipation of high attendance at this year's Henley Royal Regatta.
Running between 30th June and 5th July 2026, the enhanced service aims to provide convenient connections with mainline services from London Paddington.
Trains will operate every half-hour with additional carriages throughout the week and increase to a seven-carriage service on Saturday for the busiest day of the event.
With increased pressure on Henley's roads and parking areas, GWR is urging spectators to opt for the 12-minute train journey from Twyford instead of driving.
To manage the anticipated crowds, queuing systems will be implemented at both Twyford and Henley stations.
Spectators are recommended to purchase digital tickets in advance, arrive early, and allow for extra time at stations.
For travel guidance, GWR operates services from London Paddington to Twyford, providing a seamless connection to Henley-on-Thames.
GWR Station Manager for Twyford and Henley, Mian Sarwar, emphasised the convenience of the rail option:
“Henley Royal Regatta is one of the highlights of the summer calendar, and it's brilliant to have such a world-renowned event right on our patch. With such strong local rail links, there's really no need to drive and no need to worry about parking either.”
Sarwar advised passengers to allow sufficient time for their journeys, as peak travel times are expected between 0900 and 1300 towards Henley and from 1600 onwards heading back.
Changes to stopping patterns and timings will be in effect along the Twyford–Henley line to accommodate longer boarding times.
Regular commuters have been informed, and all travellers are encouraged to verify their routes before travel.