Rail Live Express
Step off the train and into Rail LIVE
WEDNESDAY 17 JUNE 2026 & THURSDAY 18 JUNE 2026
London Paddington & Reading → Rail LIVE at Long Marston
This June, arrive at the UK’s largest rail industry exhibition in the most fitting way possible – by train.
The Rail LIVE Express offers a unique direct rail service from London Paddington and Reading straight to the Rail LIVE Exhibition at Porterbrook’s Long Marston Rail Innovation Centre, allowing passengers to step off the train directly into the site, avoiding the usual transfer by road.
Operated using Romic Group’s distinctive InterCity 125 High Speed Train, this special working provides comfortable high-speed transport for rail professionals and exhibitors travelling to Rail LIVE.
In a year that marks the 50th anniversary of the iconic High Speed Train, this journey provides a particularly special experience. Since the withdrawal of HST services from Great Western Railway in 2019, departures from London Paddington have been extremely rare – we believe this will be only the second time a HST has departed the station since then.
All passengers will require a valid rail live badge and it is recommended to print your badge at home for ease of entry and to avoid queuing on site.
YOUR TRAIN TO RAIL LIVE
Passengers can choose between First Class and Standard Class seating aboard the HST, widely regarded as one of the most successful and comfortable trains ever built.
First Class offers spacious seating and a quieter environment ideal for preparing for the day ahead at Rail LIVE.
Standard Class provides comfortable airline-style seating, with some tables, perfect for a relaxed and sociable journey.
A trolley catering service will operate throughout the train offering refreshments during the journey.
Most importantly, this service offers seamless access to the event - step off the train and walk directly into the Rail LIVE exhibition site at Long Marston.
WHY TRAVEL ON THE RAIL LIVE EXPRESS?
1. Direct train from London Paddington and Reading to the showground
2. No bus transfer required
3. Travel aboard a classic InterCity 125 High Speed Train
4. Celebrate 50 years of the HST
5. Comfortable First and Standard Class seating
6. Trolley catering service available onboard
7. Profits donated to Railway Children
Whether you are attending Rail LIVE as an industry professional or exhibitor, the Rail LIVE Express offers the most memorable and convenient way to start your day.
If you experience any issues using the online booking form above, or would prefer to book over the phone, please call 01388-661394.
Provisional Timings
The following timings are provisional and subject to confirmation by Network Rail. Final confirmed timings will be issued to customers closer to the date of travel.
Wednesday 17 June 2026
London Paddington – depart 08:10
Reading – TBC
Long Marston – arrive 10:30
Return:
Long Marston – depart 16:0
Reading – TBC
London Paddington – TBC
Thursday 18 June 2026
London Paddington – depart 08:10
Reading – TBC
Long Marston – arrive 10:30
Return:
Long Marston – depart 15:40
Reading – TBC
London Paddington – TBC
Please note that all timings remain provisional and may change pending final pathing approval from Network Rail. Customers will receive confirmed timings and final travel information closer to the date of departure.
Supporting Railway Children
This special working has been arranged as a charity train, with profits from the operation donated to Railway Children, supporting their vital work protecting vulnerable children connected with railways around the world.
By travelling on the Rail LIVE Express, you are not only enjoying a unique rail journey - you are also supporting an important cause within the railway community.
A Unique Industry Collaboration
The Rail LIVE Express is proudly operated through collaboration between:
