Thousands of commuters across East Sussex are celebrating the return of a vital direct rail connection to London, which was axed during the Covid-19 pandemic. Southern Railway has reinstated a direct morning service from the coastal town of Eastbourne to London Bridge, significantly improving journeys for residents in nine towns and villages along the route.
Service Details and Timetable
The new direct commuter train departs from Eastbourne at 6.47am, arriving at London Bridge station for 8.25am. This revival comes in direct response to rising passenger demand as numbers steadily climb back towards pre-pandemic levels. A corresponding return service will leave London Bridge at 5.03pm, reaching Eastbourne by 6.35pm.
Prior to this welcome change, passengers were forced to change trains at Haywards Heath to complete their journey into the capital, adding time and inconvenience to their daily commute. Rail operators hope this streamlined service will free up more seats on other busy commuter routes.
Stations Served on the Route
The service will connect a significant portion of East Sussex to central London, making stops at the following stations:
- Hampden Park
- Polegate
- Berwick
- Glynde
- Lewes
- Cooksbridge
- Plumpton
- Haywards Heath
- Three Bridges
- East Croydon
A "Massive Win" for Local Communities
The restoration is the result of a sustained local campaign. Eastbourne MP, Josh Babarinde, hailed the development as a "massive win for our town", extending thanks to everyone who supported the effort to bring back the direct link.
Jenny Saunders, Southern’s Customer Services Director, expressed her delight: "I am delighted that we’ve been able to introduce this direct service from the coast to the capital. We know this is something our customers have been calling for."
She emphasised the railway's commitment to encouraging people back to rail travel, noting it as the most sustainable form of public transport. "We want our services to get you to where you need to be comfortably and reliably," Saunders added, stating that the timetable improvement builds on existing successes and was achieved through collaboration with local stakeholders.
The return of this direct route, launched on Tuesday, December 16, marks a significant step in restoring and improving regional rail connectivity for East Sussex, offering a faster, more convenient journey for thousands of daily commuters.
