Train Derailment Near Lewes
A passenger train has derailed near Lewes railway station in East Sussex, closing all railway lines through the area and causing major disruption across the Sussex rail network.
What Happened Near Lewes?
Emergency services were called shortly before 4pm on Thursday 13 August after reports that a passenger train had derailed close to Lewes railway station.
British Transport Police, paramedics and East Sussex Fire and Rescue Service responded to the scene.
The incident has resulted in all railway lines through Lewes being closed while emergency services and railway teams deal with the incident.
The circumstances surrounding the derailment are still being established. This page will not speculate about the cause while official investigations and safety assessments continue.
Where Is the Disruption?
The graphic below is a simplified travel-status illustration, not a railway map.
Heath
Bridges
Southern: Do Not Travel
National Rail says Southern is advising passengers not to travel while the incident is being dealt with.
If you are already travelling, expect journeys to take considerably longer than normal and follow instructions from railway staff.
Which Sussex Routes Are Affected?
The disruption extends beyond Lewes itself because the station is an important connection point for several routes across East Sussex.
National Rail says no trains can currently operate between Lewes and Haywards Heath.
Most services between Brighton and Lewes are currently cancelled.
Services through Lewes towards Eastbourne are heavily disrupted. Check your individual journey before travelling.
Most services between Brighton, Lewes and Seaford are affected by the closure.
Southern services are currently not serving Cooksbridge.
Southern services are currently not serving Plumpton.
Travelling to Gatwick Airport?
National Rail is advising passengers travelling to Gatwick Airport to allow at least 90 additional minutes for their journey to help protect flight connections.
If you have a flight today, check your rail journey before leaving and consider alternative transport early rather than waiting until your scheduled departure time.
What Can Passengers Do?
Check National Rail Before Leaving
The situation is developing and service arrangements can change quickly. Use live journey information before starting your trip.
Alternative Rail Routes
National Rail says affected tickets are being accepted on selected Southern, Thameslink and Gatwick Express services between Brighton and London Victoria, as well as London Underground services between London terminals.
Brighton & Hove Buses
Affected rail tickets are currently being accepted on specified Brighton & Hove bus routes 28, 29, 29B and 29X, covering connections including Brighton, Falmer, Lewes and other destinations.
Rail Replacement Transport
Southern has requested replacement buses for affected areas. Check the live journey planner for confirmation and allow additional journey time.
Current Situation
National Rail currently expects major disruption until approximately 22:00 tonight.
That time is an estimate rather than a guaranteed reopening time. Recovery, inspection and safety work will need to be completed before normal railway operations can resume.
We will update this guide when verified travel information changes.
If Your Train Is Stopped Between Stations
Stay on the train and follow instructions from railway staff. Do not attempt to leave the train unless staff or emergency services tell you to do so.
Railway infrastructure can remain extremely dangerous even when trains appear not to be moving, including areas using an electrified third rail.
Check Before You Travel
Because this is a developing incident, passengers should rely on live information from the railway operator before beginning a journey.