An Avanti West Coast train has experienced a significant Train Derailment Shap near Shap, Cumbria, after striking a suspected landslip early this morning, November 3, 2025. The incident, which occurred at approximately 06:10 AM, has led to the complete blockage of the West Coast Main Line north of Preston, causing major travel disruption for travellers and necessitating a large-scale emergency response. While the leading carriage of the Pendolino service derailed, the train remarkably remained upright, and all 87 passengers and crew on board were safely evacuated with only four minor injuries reported, a testament to the robust Pendolino train safety features.
The Train Derailment Shap Incident Unfolds Amidst Stormy Conditions
The 04:28 Avanti West Coast service from Glasgow Central to London Euston was travelling at around 80 miles per hour when it encountered an obstruction on the line near Shap Summit, the highest point of the West Coast Main Line. Early indications strongly suggest that a significant landslip, triggered by exceptionally heavy rainfall and adverse weather conditions battering the region, deposited a large volume of earth and debris onto the tracks. This collision caused the leading coach of the 11-carriage Pendolino train to derail, with the second vehicle’s front bogie also coming off the rails in what is now being classified as a Cumbria train derailment.
Network Rail operations director Sam MacDougall stated that the train’s design performed well, keeping the vehicle upright despite the derailment. British Transport Police confirmed the front carriage came off the tracks but remained stable. The incident occurred while it was still dark, compounding the challenging conditions for those on board and for the emergency services responding to the Train Derailment Shap.
Passenger Evacuation and Welfare Following the Train Derailment Shap
Following the derailment, a major incident was declared by the North West Ambulance Service, with numerous police, fire, and ambulance crews converging on the scene of the Train Derailment Shap. Passengers described experiencing a “flash and a bang” before the train came to an abrupt halt, with some recounting feelings of panic and distress.
Emergency responders worked diligently in difficult terrain and weather to ensure the safety of all on board. The 87 individuals, including passengers and crew, were safely escorted along the track to a nearby reception centre, the Shap Wells Hotel, where they received care and support. The North West Ambulance Service assessed all 87 patients, treating four for minor injuries. Crucially, no one required hospital admission, and the major incident status was later stood down. By late morning, most passengers had been conveyed to their onward destinations via rail replacement services.
Severe Disruption on the West Coast Main Line Caused by Train Derailment Shap
The derailment has caused a complete shutdown of the West Coast Main Line between Preston and Carlisle, severing a vital artery for rail travel between Scotland and the North West of England. Avanti West Coast has issued a strong “do not travel” advisory for journeys north of Preston for the remainder of the day, highlighting the severity of this Avanti West Coast incident. They have also confirmed that significant disruption is anticipated to last for “several days” as recovery and repair operations commence following this Train Derailment Shap.
Rail replacement services are being organised for affected routes, and ticket acceptance has been put in place with other operators, including LNER, ScotRail, CrossCountry, and TransPennine Express, to help passengers find alternative ways to complete their journeys. Passengers are urged to check with their train operator or National Rail Enquiries for the latest travel updates on the West Coast Main Line disruption.
Investigations Underway and Official Statements on the Train Derailment Shap
Both Network Rail and the Rail Accident Investigation Branch (RAIB) have deployed teams of inspectors to the site to conduct thorough investigations into the cause of the derailment. The Office of Rail and Road is also involved in assessing this landslip train accident.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander, who was briefed on the situation, declared a major incident and emphasized that passenger safety was the top priority. She confirmed no injuries and pledged close coordination with Avanti West Coast and the RAIB. An Avanti West Coast spokesperson reiterated that the company’s priority was the well-being of everyone on board and assisting emergency services. Network Rail apologized for the disruption and assured that their teams are working to restore services as swiftly and safely as possible following the Train Derailment Shap.
The incident highlights the ongoing vulnerability of the West Coast Main Line, particularly the Shap section, to severe weather events and landslips, prompting questions about infrastructure resilience and investment on this crucial route. As engineers begin the complex task of clearing the line and assessing damage, passengers face considerable travel uncertainty for the coming days due to this significant Train Derailment Shap.
