London North Eastern Railway is adding extra train services to help football fans travelling from York and Leeds for the FA Cup semi-final between Chelsea and Leeds United on Sunday 26 April 2026.
The match, which kicks off at 15:00 at Wembley Stadium in London, is expected to draw large crowds. To manage the increased demand, the rail operator has introduced three additional services: two southbound departures from Leeds in the morning at 07.55 and 08.01, and an extra service from London King’s Cross to Leeds departing at 20.27, calling at Doncaster and Wakefield Westgate.
Travel conditions are expected to be busy throughout the day, as the London Marathon is also taking place in the capital on Sunday. Furthermore, recent industrial action at Transport for London, which includes walkouts from 21 to 24 April, may cause residual delays for fans navigating the city after arriving at King’s Cross.
Passengers are encouraged to book their travel in advance, as some services are already fully reserved. Those travelling without a seat reservation may have to stand for part or all of their journey. To ensure safety and manage crowding, a queueing system will be in place at stations, and travellers are advised to allow extra time to reach their platform. The final northbound train from King’s Cross to Leeds is scheduled for 22.35.
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