GBR Debuts New Logo for Renationalised Rail
Great British Railways Unveils New Logo as Renationalisation Advances
Great British Railways (GBR) has revealed its new logo and branding, signalling a major step toward the UK’s railway renationalisation. The livery, showcased by ministers at London Bridge, features a red, white and blue palette paired with the iconic double-arrow symbol — a deliberate nod to Britain’s railway heritage.
Designed in-house by the Department for Transport (DfT), the branding aims to deliver a modern identity without costly redesigns. The first repainted trains are expected next spring, while the new look debuts immediately in Hornby models and the Train Sim World 6 simulation.
The unveiling coincides with parliamentary debate on sweeping rail reforms intended to unify the fragmented private system. Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander described the new branding as the start of a “new railway” focused on reliable, passenger-centred service, supported by fare freezes and legislative change.
Seven former private train operators in England are already back in public ownership, with full renationalisation planned by the end of 2027. GBR, headquartered in Derby, will integrate track and train operations and introduce a strengthened passenger watchdog.
The design will also feature on the upcoming GBR ticketing app, a unified platform allowing passengers to buy tickets across the network without booking fees and to access Passenger Assist services. The government hopes the new system will simplify travel and improve accessibility.
As the new east coast mainline timetable launches next week, adding hundreds of LNER services, the reliability of state-run operations faces its first major test.
