Rail and cycle

Folding bicycles can generally be taken on any train service and placed in the usual luggage racks. A limited number of full size bicycles can be carried on services where space permits.

For Great Western Railway services in Wiltshire you do not have to reserve a space, but it is a good idea, particularly at peak times. However, from Monday May 16th 2016 you will have to reserve a place for your bike on all high speed trains.  You can reserve a space at the station or use the contact details below.  Make sure you check the train operator’s policy.

For South West Trains,  bicycles are not allowed on some services which arrive or depart from London Waterloo or Clapham Junction at peak times. Please check directly with the train operator.

If you are travelling on the London Waterloo to Salisbury/Exeter/Bristol services you will need to reserve a space for your cycle. You can reserve a cycle space at any staffed station or use the contact details below. Please book at least 24 hours in advance of travel.

You should also check with individual operators for carriage of tandems, cycle trailers and motorised cycles. More information can be found on the cyclists page of the National Rail website.

• Great Western Railway cycling policy. For cycle reservations 08457 000 125.
• South West Trains cycling policy. For cycle reservations call 0845 6000 650 (option 4) at least 24 hours in advance.

When you get to the station, you should try to arrive a few minutes early.  For most trains through Wiltshire there is a specific luggage area for bikes. Look out for the cycle symbol on the door of the carriage. Try to sit near your bike and lock the wheel of the bike to the frame.

At Chippenham, look out for the sign on the platform which tells you where to wait with your bike.  You will need to put your bike in the guard carriage and then go and sit in a different carriage. For trains outside of Wiltshire you should ask station staff what arrangements there are for bicycles.

Another option is to buy a cheap second-hand bike and to leave it at your destination station. You can also hire leisure bikes in Bradford-on-Avon, Chippenham (Lacock) and Salisbury.