On-time departure: Bewdley Express commuter trial launches today
The pilot project aims to test demand for a regular heritage commuter service
Last updated 1st Sep 2026
A new commuter rail service trial connecting Bewdley and Birmingham has officially launched today.
The pilot project, led by West Midlands Rail Executive (WMRE) and Severn Valley Railway (SVR), aims to test demand for a regular heritage commuter service.
Operating on Tuesdays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays, this eight-week trial will allow commuters to travel from Bewdley, transfer at Kidderminster, and continue their journey to Birmingham.
The service comprises a short heritage rail journey from Bewdley to Kidderminster, followed by a walk to Kidderminster station for a connecting West Midlands Railway train to Birmingham Snow Hill.
Return journeys follow the same pattern in reverse.
The whole journey takes approximately 1 hour and 6 minutes.
The trial will closely monitor interest in the route and evaluate the practicality of establishing a permanent connection to the wider West Midlands network.
You can read more about the trial on the WMR website.