RMT rail strikes disrupt UK train services through October

UK rail services face substantial RMT industrial action through October 2026, with passengers urged to check travel plans carefully as multiple disputes impact train networks, stations, and connecting transport links.

The industrial landscape across the transport sector involves several overlapping disputes. According to Striketracker, current travel disruptions span multiple regions and operators. While Nottingham Express Transit tram strikes coincide with the Goose Fair, rail networks are preparing for a wave of RMT actions. A planned RMT walkout on Sunday 4 October 2026 was suspended, allowing trains to operate as normal on that day. However, limited train services remain scheduled for subsequent Sundays, with Thetrainline advising customers to verify schedules before setting out.

The next major scheduled industrial action affects Chiltern Railways, where RMT members will strike for 24 hours on Saturday 10 October 2026 and Saturday 17 October 2026 over driver-only operation. Striketracker notes that these dates follow a ballot closing on 29 September. Despite the strikes, Chiltern expects to run most services as normal, though specific amendments apply to both weekends.

Additional localized disputes further complicate the network. Avanti West Coast station staff at Manchester Piccadilly have engaged in action over the dismissal of a colleague, with further 24-hour strikes planned. Meanwhile, RMT members employed by Gate Solutions—the contractor staffing ticket gates and customer-service points on the LNER contract—are also staging 24-hour strikes. In the wider transport ecosystem, Unite members driving for Arriva North London are taking action over working conditions, and GMB members at Nottingham Express Transit are striking over pay. Additionally, RMT members at Go Cornwall Bus are refusing overtime and rest-day working while taking full meal breaks.

For passengers affected by cancellations and timetable changes, ticketing rules offer various forms of recourse. Travelers using Thetrainline can request exchanges on Advance tickets. Season ticket holders whose services are cancelled on strike days can claim compensation through Delay Repay or apply for a season ticket refund, subject to administrative fees. As Strikecalendar notes, tracking industrial action across UK rail services remains essential as schedules continue to shift.

Journey planners are expected to update with specific disruption details several days in advance of each strike date, and operators will continue contacting booked passengers directly regarding cancelled or altered services.