Home » RAILWAY NEWS » Coryton and Penarth Lines, South Wales: New Electric Trains Launched To Boost Passenger Experience And Tourism

Published on
September 27, 2025

In a major development for South Wales’ transport network, the new Class 756 electric trains have now been rolled out across the Coryton and Penarth lines. This marks a significant milestone in enhancing the passenger experience for both local commuters and tourists visiting the area. The introduction of these state-of-the-art trains promises to not only improve daily travel but also provide a more comfortable, efficient, and accessible journey for tourists exploring the region.

Starting from Saturday, 27 September, these brand-new electric trains will be operating daily services along the Coryton, Penarth, Treherbert, Aberdare, and Merthyr lines. With 24 electric trains now in service, the Welsh Government’s 800 million pound investment is transforming South Wales’ rail network, delivering modern, environmentally friendly trains to serve passengers’ needs.

Improved Travel Experience for Tourists

Tourists planning to explore South Wales will now benefit from a more seamless and enjoyable rail journey, thanks to the new Class 756 trains. The introduction of these electric trains represents a huge step forward in regional connectivity, offering faster travel times and more frequent services. This is especially beneficial for tourists keen to experience Wales’ stunning valleys, including visits to iconic destinations like Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, and Aberdare.

The modern electric trains feature upgraded facilities designed to make travel more comfortable for tourists. These include spacious seating, advanced air conditioning systems, and access to onboard amenities such as power sockets and WiFi. With easy access to real-time travel information via passenger screens, tourists can stay informed about their journey, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience.

Additionally, the new electric trains include level boarding, making the trains more accessible for all passengers, including those with mobility needs. This improvement is a welcome change for tourists with disabilities, ensuring that they can travel across South Wales with ease.

A Step Towards Sustainable Tourism

The launch of these new electric trains also aligns with Wales’ commitment to sustainability and environmentally responsible tourism. With electric trains replacing older diesel-powered models, the environmental impact of travel is significantly reduced, helping to lower the carbon footprint of visitors travelling across the region. This makes the new service not only a practical choice but also a sustainable one, catering to tourists who value eco-friendly travel options.

The electrification of the Coryton and Penarth lines is a part of the broader vision to create a greener, more sustainable transport network that will benefit both local residents and tourists alike. This is in line with global trends toward reducing emissions in the travel and transport sector, offering an environmentally conscious solution for exploring the scenic beauty of Wales.

Increased Capacity for Growing Tourist Numbers

One of the standout features of the Class 756 trains is their increased capacity, which will accommodate more passengers. With Wales experiencing a growing influx of tourists each year, these trains are well-equipped to handle the surge in demand during peak travel seasons. Whether tourists are visiting the bustling streets of Cardiff or heading to more tranquil spots like Penarth and Aberdare, the new trains offer enough space to comfortably transport a larger number of visitors.

Tourism in South Wales has seen a steady rise, and with the region’s growing appeal as a destination for both domestic and international visitors, the new electric trains will play a pivotal role in ensuring that tourists can easily access popular tourist spots. The improved services and more frequent train schedules provide tourists with more flexibility, allowing them to plan their trips with ease and convenience.

Affordable and Convenient Travel for Tourists

The launch of Pay As You Go services in over 90 stations across the region further enhances the accessibility of the train network for tourists. This new payment system offers a simple, affordable way for tourists to travel across the region without the need for complicated ticket purchases or pre-bookings. Tourists can pay for their journey directly on the train, making it easier for them to explore the region at their own pace.

Marie Daly, the Chief Operating Officer at Transport for Wales (TfW), expressed her excitement about the new trains, highlighting the positive impact on customer experience. With a focus on offering more comfort, convenience, and capacity, these modern electric trains are set to transform how tourists explore South Wales. With features such as free WiFi, power sockets, and even space for up to six bikes, these trains offer a great way for visitors to travel while also enjoying the beautiful views of Wales.

Welsh Government’s Commitment to Tourism and Travel Enhancement

The Welsh Government has made substantial investments in improving the rail network, and the full rollout of these electric trains on the Coryton and Penarth lines marks a significant achievement. Transport Minister Ken Skates spoke about the ongoing efforts to upgrade the Core Valley Lines, which includes this exciting new service. He highlighted that the new trains represent not only an upgrade in terms of comfort and capacity but also a broader vision to create a turn-up-and-go metro service for passengers.

Skates’ commitment to improving public transport in Wales signals a bright future for tourism in the region, as better connectivity means more people can easily access the tourist destinations they desire. With a focus on both the local population and visitors, these improvements are designed to make Wales a more attractive destination for all.

A Brighter Future for Welsh Tourism

The introduction of the Class 756 electric trains on the Coryton and Penarth lines marks a major step forward in modernising the transport network in South Wales. The new service offers numerous benefits for both tourists and daily commuters, from faster services and increased capacity to improved comfort and accessibility. These trains are not only a fantastic addition for visitors exploring South Wales but also an important step toward a more sustainable and efficient tourism infrastructure.

As Wales continues to invest in its transport network, tourists can expect even more improvements in the future, making it easier and more enjoyable to explore all that this stunning region has to offer.