Quick Answer
Train station toilets: Major stations have toilets (some charge 30-50p, free with RADAR key). TfL stations are free. Most long-distance trains have on-board toilets. Get a RADAR key (£4.50) for free accessible toilet access at stations and on trains. Check "Toilet Availability" on train apps before boarding.
Best Toilets for Train Travel UK 2025
Who This Guide Is For
- ✓ Regular rail commuters
- ✓ Long-distance train travellers
- ✓ People with medical conditions (IBS, IBD, etc.)
- ✓ Families travelling with children
- ✓ Wheelchair users using accessible rail
Train Station Toilets: Overview
| Station Type | Toilets | Cost | RADAR Access |
|---|---|---|---|
| Major Termini (King's Cross, Euston, etc.) | Yes | 30-50p (free with RADAR) | Yes |
| TfL Stations (Underground, Overground) | Most have toilets | Free | Yes |
| Medium Stations | Usually | Free or 20-30p | Usually |
| Small Unstaffed Stations | Sometimes | Free if available | Sometimes |
Major Station Facilities
London Termini
- King's Cross: Free toilets on concourse + Changing Places
- St Pancras: 50p (free with RADAR) + Changing Places
- Euston: Free after barrier, 50p before + Changing Places
- Victoria: 50p (free with RADAR)
- Paddington: Free toilets + Changing Places
- Liverpool Street: Free toilets
- Waterloo: 30p (free with RADAR) + Changing Places
Regional Hubs
- Birmingham New Street: Free + Changing Places
- Manchester Piccadilly: Free + Changing Places
- Leeds: Free + Changing Places
- Edinburgh Waverley: 30p (free with RADAR)
- Glasgow Central: Free
- Bristol Temple Meads: Free + Changing Places
- Newcastle: Free + Changing Places
Toilets on Trains
Which Trains Have Toilets?
| Train Type | Toilets | Accessible |
|---|---|---|
| Long-distance (Avanti, LNER, GWR, CrossCountry) | Yes - multiple | Yes (RADAR) |
| InterCity (EMR, TPE, ScotRail) | Yes | Yes (RADAR) |
| Regional (Northern, GWR local) | Usually | Usually |
| Short Commuter (Thameslink, Southeastern) | Some | Some |
| London Underground | No | N/A |
| DLR, Tram | No | N/A |
⚠️ Important: Check Before Boarding
Train operator apps now show "Toilet Availability" in real-time. Before boarding, check the app to see:
- • Whether the train has toilets
- • Which carriages have toilets
- • If toilets are in working order
Essential Tools for Rail Travellers
🔑 RADAR Key
Opens accessible toilets at stations (often free entry) and on trains. Essential for regular rail travellers.
Cost: £4.50 from Disability Rights UK
💳 Just Can't Wait Card
If you have a medical condition, this card explains your urgent need. Staff will often help you find facilities quickly.
Cost: ~£5 from Bladder & Bowel UK
📱 Train Operator Apps
Check "Toilet Availability" before boarding. Apps include Avanti, LNER, GWR, etc.
Free - download your operator's app
🚉 ToiletNearMe
Find toilets at stations and nearby if station facilities are closed or busy.
Free at toiletnearme.co.uk
Tips for Train Travel with Toilet Needs
Before Your Journey
- • Check if your train has toilets (use the app)
- • Use station toilets before boarding
- • Know which carriage has the accessible toilet
- • Bring your RADAR key
- • Book accessible seating near toilets if needed
During Your Journey
- • Sit near the toilet carriage if you have urgent needs
- • Use toilets early - they may run out of supplies
- • If toilet is broken, tell the conductor immediately
- • On-train accessible toilets use RADAR locks
- • Know the next station in case of emergencies
For Travellers with Medical Conditions
If you have IBS, Crohn's, colitis, or another condition requiring urgent toilet access:
- ✓ Book assistance: Contact the train operator 24h+ ahead for support
- ✓ Accessible seating: Book seats near accessible toilet (priority for medical needs)
- ✓ Speak to conductor: Let them know your situation at the start
- ✓ Emergency protocol: If toilet is broken, conductor can stop at next station
- ✓ Carry your cards: Just Can't Wait card and RADAR key are essential
See our IBS guide and Crohn's guide for more tips.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I have to pay to use train station toilets?
It varies. London Underground, Overground, and Elizabeth line stations are free. Many Network Rail stations charge 30-50p, but RADAR key holders can use accessible toilets for free.
Do all trains have toilets?
No. Long-distance trains always have toilets, but some short commuter services and all London Underground/DLR trains don't. Check the train operator app's "Toilet Availability" feature before boarding.
What if the train toilet is broken?
Tell the conductor immediately. If you have a medical condition, they can arrange for the train to stop at the next station for you to use facilities. Having a Just Can't Wait card helps explain the urgency.
Can I use a RADAR key on trains?
Yes. Most accessible toilets on trains use RADAR locks. Your key will open these toilets, which are usually larger and better maintained than standard train toilets.
Related Guides
Find Station Toilets
Use our toilet finder to locate facilities at stations and nearby.
Find Toilets Near Me