ALERT: Major Rail Disruption Across Kent and Southeast London This Weekend

Engineering work will see trains replaced by buses across multiple routes in Kent and south-east London on 21 and 22 March 2026.

Network Rail engineers will carry out essential maintenance work this weekend affecting rail services across Kent and south-east London. The work is part of a broader programme to maintain and improve the railway infrastructure across the region. Passengers are urged to plan alternative travel arrangements and allow extra time for journeys where replacement bus services are operating.

No trains will operate on the Lewisham line throughout the weekend of 21 and 22 March. Replacement bus services will run between New Cross and Dartford via the Bexleyheath line during this period. Passengers travelling to or from these areas should expect longer journey times than usual, as rail replacement buses may take additional time to complete their routes.

On Sunday 22 March, further disruption will affect additional routes. Replacement buses will replace trains via Beckenham Junction, and services between Paddock Wood and Ashford International will also be affected. Multiple other routes across the network are subject to changes during this engineering work weekend. Passengers should check journey planners and service updates before travelling to understand how their specific route is affected.

The engineering work is essential for maintaining the safe and reliable operation of the railway network. These improvements support long-term resilience and help ensure more punctual journeys for the thousands of passengers who use Kent’s rail services daily. Detailed travel advice and revised timetables are available through National Rail Enquiries and South Eastern Railway’s official travel information channels.