A cancelled train is a right pain, and not just because your journey gets delayed. You usually end up squished into a packed train because everyone else who would have caught your train is catching the next one too. Which is exactly why you need to know our seat reservation hack!
The dilemma
You’ve heard the dreaded announcement, or maybe had the notification come through on your phone – your train has been cancelled. You’re already bracing yourself for a battle when it comes to getting on the next one that’s scheduled and trying to find a seat.
The hack
It’s right in your hand! Hop onto your phone and bring up the social media account of the train company you’re travelling with. Their customer service can then take some of the sting out of your cancelled train by sorting out a seat reservation for you on the next one.
How to get a last minute train seat reservation
To get your seat reservation, just follow the steps below:
- Pull up Instagram or Facebook (or X if you still use it) and find the feed of the train operator you’re travelling with
- DM them that your train’s been cancelled and ask them to get you a seat reservation on the service you want to travel on
- Be ready to send them a photo or screenshot of your ticket
- They’ll reply back with your seat reservation – job done!
Not only does this hopefully give you a spot on the next service, it also frees up the time you have to wait. Instead of frantically scanning the departure boards so you can make a mad dash to the platform to be sure you’ll get on the train, you can pop to the shops for an extra snack or two!
Does it work in practice?
James and I tried out this hack recently with Avanti West Coast when we had a cancelled train.
After messaging their social media account, James received a message back within minutes. Not only did their customer service team let us know the best next train to get, but they also reserved us two seats on that train which was coming in 15 minutes time. And great news – they were there when we boarded!
Does it work on other train operators?
The comments on the video tell us that it definitely does work on other networks too!
Cross Country, LNER and GWR also have additional options listed on their website for when it comes to seat reservations.
What can I do if they don't message back?
Whilst it’s great to be able to do everything from your phone, you may be able to get a seat reservation by going to the ticket office of the station that you’re at – so if you have the time, give that a go!
Have you used this hack yet? Let us know!
Don’t forget, if your train has been cancelled or delayed then you’re entitled to compensation. Read our guide to find out how to claim.
