Yes — this is normal. Trains sometimes stop or slow down outside stations before continuing.
This usually reflects network coordination rather than a problem with your specific service.
Why trains wait outside stations
Rail networks operate as shared systems. Trains are sequenced to avoid conflicts at platforms and junctions.
Common reasons for waiting include:
- A platform ahead is still occupied
- Another service needs to pass first
- Signal timing adjustments
- Congestion further along the route
Stopping briefly can prevent bigger delays later.
Why this isn’t always announced
Short waits are often considered routine and may not trigger announcements.
If the pause is expected to be brief, staff may wait until there is something definite to say.
What this usually does not indicate
A stop outside a station does not usually mean:
- A mechanical fault
- A safety issue
- An imminent cancellation
Most trains resume movement once the path ahead clears.
Why it feels more worrying than it is
Passengers expect stops to happen at stations, not between them.
Unexpected pauses break that mental model and make delays feel more serious.
How long these waits typically last
Most are short and resolve without further disruption.
Longer stops are less common and usually come with additional information.
In simple terms
Waiting outside a station is often a traffic-management decision.
It’s a normal part of keeping trains running safely and in order.
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