Travel Delays Expected as Barnes–Kew Rail Link Shuts for a Week

Rail passengers in southwest London will face significant changes to services from 23 to 31 August as trains between Barnes and Kew Bridge are suspended for planned engineering works. This closure affects a well used part of the Hounslow Loop that carries daily commuters, travellers on holiday and people going to local events. During the works, rail replacement buses will operate on the affected section, increasing journey times for many travellers.

The disruption coincided with the August Bank Holiday and Brentford’s first home match of the Premier League season against Aston Villa at Gtech Community Stadium on 31 August. This event is expected to draw a large number of visitors, many using rail connections to Kew Bridge station. Given the stadium’s 17,000 seat capacity and an afternoon kick off, the travel network will face heavier use than usual. Travellers should note the following points:

• Expect high passenger volumes on services to and from Kew Bridge before and after the match
• Allow extra time for journeys on replacement buses or alternative rail services
• Consider travelling outside the busiest pre match and post match periods to avoid delays
• Be prepared for longer queues at stations and on public transport in the surrounding area

In addition to the closure between Barnes and Kew Bridge, services will also be suspended between Feltham and Barnes on the same weekend, increasing the scale of disruption. Passengers may need to adjust travel times, use earlier trains or plan different connections to avoid delays. Chiswick station will stay under partial disruption until 15 September while its passenger footbridge gets a full upgrade. During this time, anyone needing to cross the tracks will have to use the alternative route through Grove Park Bridge to do so safely.

For those travelling during this period, advance planning is essential as service changes and large event crowds are expected to increase journey times. Knowing what steps to take in advance can help you keep your trip on track and travel with less stress. Here is what you can do:

• Check official service updates before setting out to confirm current travel information
• Allow an extra 15 to 30 minutes for connections to accommodate potential delays
• Avoid peak travel hours when services may be at their busiest
• Use London Underground or other mainline rail services when available to bypass congested areas
• Choose alternative travel times to minimise congestion, especially for those attending the match or returning from holiday

While the repairs are expected to finish before the new school term begins, they fall in the middle of one of the busiest times for travel. Anyone visiting southwest London at this time should prepare for longer journeys and potential changes to routes. While the disruption will be temporary, it will affect weekend trips, event attendance and holiday travel, making preparation key to keeping plans on track.