Travel advice for customers during the national mourning period and State Funeral

Travel advice for customers during the national mourning period and State Funeral

Plan Ahead

Thousands of people are expected to visit London over the coming days, as the Lying-in-State comes to an end and the State Funeral of Her Majesty The Queen takes place. Southeastern and Network Rail are working closely together – along with the Government and partners in London – to ensure anyone travelling to the capital is able to move around safely and as smoothly as possible. We’ve been running extra trains, including night trains, during the Lying-in-State period and our First Class areas are currently available to all.

As we look ahead to Her Majesty’s State Funeral, we’re expecting our trains to be extremely busy so we’ve pulled together some top tips to help you if you’re planning to travel to London between now and Monday 19 September:

  • Plan ahead.
  • Allow extra time to complete your journey.
  • Check live information on our website, or through our Twitter feed throughout your journey and especially before your journey home. Alternatively, you can contact our team on WhatsApp on 07866 002 690 24 hours a day.
  • Carry water and dress for the weather forecast.
  • Wear suitable footwear as you may find it easier to walk to your final destination within London.
  • Follow the instructions of staff, event stewards and the police.
  • Remain vigilant, and while travelling on the rail network, report any concerns to British Transport Police by texting 61016. In an emergency always dial 999.
  • Look out for others and maintain the spirit of togetherness that has united the country over recent days.

Travelling on Monday?

Southeastern will be running the normal weekday timetable, but we are expecting huge numbers of people to use our network and there is a high likelihood of queueing at major stations. In some cases, crowd management may be required. Cafes, pubs and other hospitality providers around London are expected to be open in the afternoon, so please don’t rush home immediately following the State Funeral and final procession so you can continue marking this historic day and help ease pressure on the rail network.

Tickets and Refunds

With Monday 19 September being declared a bank holiday, peak restrictions will no longer apply. If you booked in advance to travel on this day and choose not to travel or rebook to a cheaper fare, you will be entitled to a fee-free refund.