Trains

Hartlepool train station underwent a significant refurbishment in 2009 which included a new interchange for buses and taxis. Buses from Hartlepool Interchange go to Durham and Peterlee with National Express coach services running to Leeds, London and York. 

Northern Rail

From Monday to Saturday Hartlepool is served by hourly trains in each direction. Southbound services run to Middlesbrough via Seaton Carew, Billingham, Stockton and Thornaby, with some journeys extending to Nunthorpe. Northbound services run to Newcastle, calling at Seaham, Sunderland and Heworth, with some continuing to MetroCentre, Hexham and Carlisle. 

Grand Central 

There are five open access Grand Central services per day in each direction, except on Sundays when there are four. Northbound trains provide a second connection to Sunderland, running directly without calling at Seaham. Southbound services continue from Hartlepool to call at Eaglescliffe, Northallerton, Thirsk and York, before terminating at London King's Cross. For up to date timetable and ticket prices access http://www.nationalrail.co.uk

Wheelchairs 

Most trains can accomodate wheelchairs that are within the dimensions prescribed in government regulations covering public transport (700mm wide, 1200mm long). There are a small number of older trains that can only currently carry wheelchairs that have a maximum width of 670mm. The maximum combined weight of a person and their wheelchair that can be conveyed is limited by: the capabilities of the individual member of staff assisting the passenger and the stated maximum safe working load of the ramp (between 230kg and 300kg).

There are a limited number of spaces available to wheelchair users on each train, it is important therefore that customers book their space in advance. 

Powered Scooters 

Because scooters come in a wide variety of shapes and sizes. many have problems on trains, including: tipping backwards on ramps; being heavier than the ramp's safe working load; or being the wrong shape to manoeuvre safely inside a carriage. These problems mean that some companies have trains that cannot carry scooters so if you are a scooter-user who wants to travel by rail, you should contact the train company to check they can safely accommodate your scooter. Please remember to contact the train company to confirm that all the stations and trains you want to use are accessible. If you require assistance please let them know at least 24 hours in advance.