Passengers Face Two Week Changes on North Downs Line
Travel plans for passengers between Guildford and Reigate will be affected from Sunday 14 September until Saturday 27 September, as trains will be temporarily replaced by buses. The disruption comes as essential upgrades are carried out on the North Downs Line, improving long term reliability and safety. Passengers traveling to Gatwick Airport can rely on services via the Brighton Main Line while the works are underway.
Passengers planning short trips or day visits should be aware of how these temporary changes could impact their travel. There are several important points passengers should keep in mind:
- Journey times may be longer due to replacement bus services.
- Extra time should be allowed during peak periods and weekends.
- Adjustments may be needed for connections to reach destinations on schedule.
- Extra planning can help ensure smoother weekend trips and airport transfers.
The disruption will also make certain attractions less accessible. Travellers may find it more challenging to reach Silent Pool Nature Reserve, Hindhead Sculpture Trail, and Polesden Lacey Estate, which are typically easiest to access via direct train services. Replacement buses will maintain service along the route but may not provide the same convenience for spontaneous visits. Closures at Tangley, Brook, and Burrows Lane are expected to cause additional delays, especially at night, impacting evening journeys and short trips to these well visited locations.
Other destinations along the line such as Box Hill, Newlands Corner, and Denbies Wine Estate may also be harder to reach during this period. Passengers planning hiking, cycling, or vineyard visits should consider extra transfer times between bus services and local transport. The signalling upgrades and improved crossing systems will eventually provide safer and more reliable journeys, but for the two weeks of disruption, careful planning is required to fully enjoy these locations.
“We would like to thank customers in advance for their patience while Network Rail carry out this vital work; but please do check before you travel, especially if you are a regular to the line."
Although temporary disruption is unavoidable, this work reflects ongoing investment in infrastructure to improve travel for passengers. In the long term, the North Downs Line upgrades will allow additional train services, safer crossings, and reduced delays, making day trips and commuting more efficient. Travelers are advised to check Network Rail’s North Downs Line signalling upgrade webpage for updates and schedule information. These improvements highlight the importance of modernising transport links to support both everyday travel and leisure excursions in the future.