First Great Western Link: former routes and current operators
First Great Western Link was FirstGroup’s short-lived Thames Valley and regional operator from 2004 to 2006. It followed Thames Trains and should not be confused with the separate Great Western intercity operation running alongside it.
Reviewed 6 November 2026.
Operator history and changes
FirstGroup took over the Thames franchise on 1 April 2004. The new First Great Western Link business covered services through the Thames and Kennet valleys and the Cotswolds, as well as the North Downs line from Reading towards Gatwick Airport. Its trains served many intermediate stations, while the existing First Great Western business concentrated on intercity travel.
The two businesses were combined with Wessex Trains in the enlarged Greater Western franchise from April 2006. The Link suffix then ceased to identify a separate passenger operator. That brief transition explains why older station pages can mention Thames Trains, First Great Western Link and First Great Western in quick succession even where the physical railway did not change.
Former routes and principal stations
Historical Paddington regional and branch network
The former Link operation included stopping and regional trains west of London and branch-line connections. The station examples span several services.
Historical North Downs corridor
The Reading–Gatwick route was part of the business despite not being a radial Paddington service. Current direct trains and connections should be checked for the chosen date.
Travelling on these routes today
For current journeys, consult GWR for the regional, branch and North Downs services and the Elizabeth line for the transferred London stopping corridor. Confirm the train’s calling pattern at intermediate stations and the precise destination station on branch lines. A journey from Reading to Gatwick follows a different railway from a journey into London and back out to the airport, with different interchange implications.
Tickets and journey choices
First Great Western Link fare tables and restrictions are historical. Compare the current itinerary and product conditions when choosing a GWR or Elizabeth line option. For an airport journey, confirm that the ticket covers the intended route and station rather than relying on a former Link description of through travel.
Accessibility and assistance
Use the current operator’s assistance arrangements and access information for every station used. Branch-line and North Downs interchanges can involve different platforms and walking routes from the main intercity concourse. Check the accessible connection, present train facilities and any replacement service before choosing a tight interchange.
Sources and further information
Use the current operator's information to check the latest timetable, disruption and assistance arrangements for your travel date.