Kent passengers urged to plan ahead as engineering works change train routes
No trains to London Victoria this week and Charing Cross closures from 1st January
Rail passengers in Kent are being advised to plan their journeys carefully as vital engineering works bring changes to train services over the festive period and into the New Year.
Southeastern has confirmed that maintenance projects will lead to closures at major London stations in addition to adjustments across the local rail network. Passengers are urged to check their routes before travelling to avoid disruption.
Key changes to Southeastern services
London Victoria: No trains will run to or from London Victoria from Saturday 27th December to Wednesday 31st December as Network Rail carries out power and signalling upgrades and replaces worn rails.
London Charing Cross and London Waterloo East: Southeastern services will not operate to/from these stations from Thursday 1st January to Sunday 4th January 2026 due to essential maintenance work.
London Cannon Street on 1st and 4th January: The station will also be closed, with most services diverted to/from London Victoria and a limited service running to London Bridge.
Station closures
South Bermondsey station will be closed from Saturday 27th December 2025 until Sunday 4th January 2026 as platforms are rebuilt. No Southern trains will stop at this station during this time.
On Christmas Day and Boxing Day, Southeastern’s network remains closed while engineers replace rails near Maidstone East, refurbish switches and crossings at Lee, and improve power supplies around the London Bridge area.
Long-term benefits for passengers
David Davidson, Chief Operating Officer for Southeastern Railway, said engineers are taking advantage of the quietest time of year on the railways to deliver safety and reliability upgrades.
“We use the time when the railway is quieter, and most commuters are away, to get vital work done on the network. These projects will result in safer and more reliable journeys for passengers.
“While most of the railway remains open, we are advising people to check and plan ahead for changes before travelling,” Mr Davidson added.
Advice for passengers travelling in Kent
Andy Commons from Southeastern emphasized the importance of preparation during the works: “We understand how important travelling during the holidays is for many of our customers. However, planned maintenance means adjustments to services and changes to key routes. Please visit Southeastern’s website, use journey planners, or check travel updates before setting out.”
Passenger routes via Maidstone East, London Victoria, Charing Cross, Cannon Street, and South Bermondsey will be most affected by maintenance works, and Southeastern advises customers to stay informed.
For more detailed information about changes to routes and updates, visit Southeastern’s website .