After a five year absence, a direct rail service connecting Eastbourne and Lewes to London Bridge is set to return, coming as great news for commuters and those planning a day trip to the coast. Starting this December, Govia Thameslink Railway will operate a direct morning service from Eastbourne, stopping at Lewes, and taking just over an hour and a half.
The train will depart at 6:48am and arrive at London Bridge by 8:25am.A return service will leave the capital at 5:03pm, getting passengers back to Eastbourne by 6:34pm. The service will run Monday through Thursday.
Previously, Eastbourne had only one direct train to London terminating at Victoria station. The new link to London Bridge offers more flexibility and easier access for commuters, especially those working in the City or near Canary Wharf.
The reinstatement follows persistent calls from locals and politicians to restore the pre-pandemic route, which was discontinued in 2020.
Among the most vocal campaigners was Eastbourne MP Josh Babarinde, who called the return of the service a “huge victory” for the town.
Earlier in July, Babarinde even did a giant ticket-shaped petition outside the town station, signed by local residents, to demonstrate the community’s support for the service.
He said in a statement: “After months of campaigning including writing to rail bosses, pressing ministers in the House of Commons and gathering thousands of signatures from Eastbournians, I’m delighted that we’ve managed to restore our direct London Bridge rail service.
“This is a huge victory for our town. I look forward to seeing commuters on 15 December for the first journey up to London Bridge.”
Eastbourne is more than just a commuter town. Often overshadowed by flashier coastal destinations like Brighton or Bournemouth, Eastbourne has been quietly gaining recognition as a charming seaside escape.
With its Victorian hotels, scenic pier, and wide shingle beaches, the town has been described by visitors as elegant, with a classic British seaside charm.
A short drive or bus ride away also lies the dramatic coastline of the Seven Sisters and Beachy Head, offering some of the South East’s most breathtaking natural scenery.