We run a busy service and space for cycles is limited. If you have not reserved a space or a reservation is not offered, we cannot guarantee you will be able to board the train with your cycle if the allocated cycle space is already full. For safety reasons and the comfort of our passengers, our staff have the right to refuse a cycle if there is insufficient space available.
Where cycles are restricted
At peak times the following restrictions apply:
In the area bounded by Hook, Alton, Guildford, Reading and Dorking, cycles may not join or alight from services due to arrive in London between 07:15 and 10:00 inclusive, and departing London between 16:45 and 19:00 inclusive. A small number of services extending beyond the area will also be restricted. This will be advised at local stations. In addition to the restrictions above, cycles are not permitted on morning peak services out of London in the area bounded by Clapham Junction, Feltham and Strawberry Hill, and on services timed to leave Clapham Junction between 07:45 and 09:00 inclusive.
Cycles may be carried on services between Ascot, Aldershot and Guildford at any time.
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Where reservations are needed
Cycle reservations are needed on all West of England line services (London Waterloo to Salisbury/Bristol, Exeter, Paignton and Plymouth). The cycle reservations are free and can be made when you buy your ticket to travel either at staffed stations or through our Customer Service Centre.
We recommend you make your reservation at least 24 hours in advance.
Where reservations are not required
Where reservations are not required, cycles are permitted and space will be allocated on a first come, first served basis. Our staff have the right to refuse a cycle if there is insufficient space available.
Fold-up cycles that can be stowed as luggage and cycles left at stations are not restricted.
Cycles at stations
We do our best to facilitate cycles at our stations by providing bike locker hire and/or cycle parking racks at many stations across our network. To find out your station’s cycle facilities, check the station information or contact our Customer Service Centre.