GWR Trials Early Morning Services Between Reading and Gatwick Airport

Great Western Railway (GWR) is set to trial new early morning train services between Reading and Gatwick Airport, aiming to improve connectivity for passengers with early flights and late arrivals.

The 12-week pilot will begin on 6 June, with services operating on Saturdays and Mondays to assess demand for extended hours on the route.

Currently, GWR services run between 04:30 and 23:30, limiting options for travellers needing to reach the airport during overnight periods. The new timetable will introduce departures in the early hours of the morning, offering greater flexibility for both passengers and airport staff.

During the trial, trains will run at the following times:

• Saturdays (from Reading): 02:28 and 03:30

• Saturdays (from Gatwick Airport): 00:30, 01:24 and 04:00

• Mondays (from Reading): 03:24

• Mondays (from Gatwick Airport): 00:24 and 04:00

Services will call at Reading, Wokingham, Guildford, Dorking Deepdene, Reigate, Redhill and Gatwick Airport.

GWR Managing Director Mark Hopwood said the trial will provide valuable insight into how passengers use overnight services and whether they are viable in the long term.

“This trial allows us to test demand for extended operating hours to Gatwick and gather real-world data on how passengers use these services,” he said. “We’ll monitor performance closely and review feedback before considering future service improvements.”

He added that enhancing sustainable transport links to airports is an important step in supporting growing demand for air travel.

London Gatwick’s Chief Commercial Officer, Jonathan Pollard, welcomed the initiative, highlighting the benefits for both travellers and airport employees.

“These new overnight services will make it easier for passengers catching early flights and for staff travelling to and from the airport,” he said. “Improving reliable and sustainable public transport connections is essential as our network continues to grow.”

The trial is expected to inform future decisions on whether permanent overnight rail services could be introduced on the route.