Latest news with #GatwickExpress
Daily Mail
25-07-2025
- Daily Mail
Travel chaos in Britain as 2.7M drivers hit the roads on Frantic Friday
Britain's big summer getaway turned into chaos on 'Frantic Friday' today as an airport terminal was evacuated, a major motorway was blocked and trains were cancelled. Some 2.7million leisure journeys were being made on the roads today, according to RAC estimates - with motorists warned to avoid heading out before 7pm tonight. Many families were on the move after the schools broke up for summer, but there was disruption for those travelling to London Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted airports. Areas of Heathrow's Terminal 3 were evacuated this morning while a fire alarm was investigated, which passengers said had caused huge queues at passport control. In Essex, drivers on the M11 were warned of seven-mile queues after it was blocked in both directions near Stansted after two crashes between junctions eight and nine. Those heading to Gatwick were hit by train chaos after a points failure at Haywards Heath impacted services operated by Gatwick Express, Southern and Thameslink. Other disrupted rail services included LNER between Retford and Newark after a train hit an obstruction on the track; and the Mildmay line in London due to defective track. Great Western Railway trains between Castle Cary and Westbury were affected by a points failure; while four Hull Trains services were cancelled due to Aslef strike action. At Heathrow today, passengers complained of queues after a fire alarm at Terminal 3 just after 11am led to a temporary evacuation being carried out for safety reasons. Arriving passenger Christina Warren tweeted: 'Landed at Heathrow an hour early but there was a fire alarm so the line for passport control is literally backed up literally the entire terminal because of a fire alarm going off.' Natalie Berg, who tweeted a photo of the queues, said on X: 'Nearly two hours and line has barely moved at Heathrow. Just been told immigration and baggage reclaim has now reopened so hopefully on the move soon.' And another passenger in the terminal wrote: 'Fire crews investigating incident in baggage hall at Heathrow T3 mean security birder is currently closed. Very long queue already.' A Heathrow spokeswoman told MailOnline: 'Following an earlier fire alarm evacuation in parts of Terminal 3, the incident has now been stood down. We apologise for any disruption caused to journeys.' Passengers were later allowed into the baggage reclaim hall to collect their bags and get on their way. Meanwhile drivers in Kent were at a standstill as they queued to use the Port of Dover after holidaymakers and freight lorries descended in large numbers. The vehicles were moving very slowly through Dover from the A20, and down Jubilee Way towards the port. An update from Port of Dover said the traffic into the port was causing delays of around an hour. A traffic control system was in place, and one traffic warden told an eyewitness that they had received a lot of verbal abuse from drivers. Doug Bannister, chief executive at the Port of Dover said his organisation has been 'preparing for a busy summer' and have brought in measures to 'minimise disruption'. He said: 'We know how vital it is to keep things moving, not just for holidaymakers but for our local community too. 'That's why we've boosted staff levels, strengthened traffic management, added welfare facilities and introduced AI-powered forecasting - all to minimise disruption and ensure both residents and travellers have the best possible experience during this busy season.' The Port of Dover said it was expecting nearly 40,000 cars this weekend and more than 270,000 in the next six weeks. The RAC revealed on Monday that a larger number of drivers than ever before were expected to head off on holiday at some point this week, rather than wait until the weekend to get away. But the first getaway weekend will also be busy with 2.7million journeys planned on 'Frantic Friday' today. Following this there will be a 'Saturday Scramble' tomorrow as the largest number of journeys on a single day - 3million - is set to take place. An extra 2.7million trips are expected on Sunday, and 4.6million more at some point over the weekend, bringing the total number of journeys this week to 26.9million. The M40 northbound between J12 for Gaydon in Warwickshire and the M42 exit at J3A in the West Midlands could see major delays. Queues are also likely on the M1 northbound from J12 to J16 in Northamptonshire; and on the M4 westbound from J22 for the Pilning Interchange near Severn Beach across the Prince of Wales Bridge to J26 for Newport. The M1 northbound from J22 near Leicester to J26 for Nottingham, near the Peak District, could face 40-minute delays. Queues of 50 minutes along the M25 anticlockwise from J4 for Sevenoaks to the Dartford Crossing are also likely. The RAC and Inrix are jointly urging those setting off at the weekend to travel as early or late as possible – with traffic set to be at its worst through the middle of the day.
Daily Mail
25-07-2025
- Daily Mail
The slow road to summer! 2.7million drivers hit the roads on Frantic Friday as families head on holidays with hour-long queues at Dover, Heathrow terminal evacuated and chaos on trains
Britain's big summer getaway turned into chaos on 'Frantic Friday' today as an airport terminal was evacuated, a major motorway was blocked and trains were cancelled. Some 2.7million leisure journeys were being made on the roads today, according to RAC estimates - with motorists warned to avoid heading out before 7pm tonight. Many families were on the move after the schools broke up for summer, but there was disruption for those travelling to London Heathrow, Gatwick and Stansted airports. Areas of Heathrow's Terminal 3 were evacuated this morning while a fire alarm was investigated, which passengers said had caused huge queues at passport control. In Essex, drivers on the M11 were warned of seven-mile queues after it was blocked in both directions near Stansted after two crashes between junctions eight and nine. Those heading to Gatwick were hit by train chaos after a points failure at Haywards Heath impacted services operated by Gatwick Express, Southern and Thameslink. Other disrupted rail services included LNER between Retford and Newark after a train hit an obstruction on the track; and the Mildmay line in London due to defective track. Great Western Railway trains between Castle Cary and Westbury were affected by a points failure; while four Hull Trains services were cancelled due to Aslef strike action. Areas of Heathrow's Terminal 3 were evacuated this morning while a fire alarm was investigated, which passengers said had caused huge queues for passport control At Heathrow today, passengers complained of queues after a fire alarm at Terminal 3 just after 11am led to a temporary evacuation being carried out for safety reasons. Arriving passenger Christina Warren tweeted: 'Landed at Heathrow an hour early but there was a fire alarm so the line for passport control is literally backed up literally the entire terminal because of a fire alarm going off.' Natalie Berg, who tweeted a photo of the queues, said on X: 'Nearly two hours and line has barely moved at Heathrow. Just been told immigration and baggage reclaim has now reopened so hopefully on the move soon.' And another passenger in the terminal wrote: 'Fire crews investigating incident in baggage hall at Heathrow T3 mean security birder is currently closed. Very long queue already.' A Heathrow spokeswoman told MailOnline: 'Following an earlier fire alarm evacuation in parts of Terminal 3, the incident has now been stood down. We apologise for any disruption caused to journeys.' Passengers were later allowed into the baggage reclaim hall to collect their bags and get on their way. Meanwhile drivers in Kent were at a standstill as they queued to use the Port of Dover after holidaymakers and freight lorries descended in large numbers. The vehicles were moving very slowly through Dover from the A20, and down Jubilee Way towards the port. An update from Port of Dover said the traffic into the port was causing delays of around an hour. A traffic control system was in place, and one traffic warden told an eyewitness that they had received a lot of verbal abuse from drivers. Doug Bannister, chief executive at the Port of Dover said his organisation has been 'preparing for a busy summer' and have brought in measures to 'minimise disruption'. He said: 'We know how vital it is to keep things moving, not just for holidaymakers but for our local community too. 'That's why we've boosted staff levels, strengthened traffic management, added welfare facilities and introduced AI-powered forecasting - all to minimise disruption and ensure both residents and travellers have the best possible experience during this busy season.' The Port of Dover said it was expecting nearly 40,000 cars this weekend and more than 270,000 in the next six weeks. The RAC revealed on Monday that a larger number of drivers than ever before were expected to head off on holiday at some point this week, rather than wait until the weekend to get away. But the first getaway weekend will also be busy with 2.7million journeys planned on 'Frantic Friday' today. Following this there will be a 'Saturday Scramble' tomorrow as the largest number of journeys on a single day - 3million - is set to take place. An extra 2.7million trips are expected on Sunday, and 4.6million more at some point over the weekend, bringing the total number of journeys this week to 26.9million. The M40 northbound between J12 for Gaydon in Warwickshire and the M42 exit at J3A in the West Midlands could see major delays. Queues are also likely on the M1 northbound from J12 to J16 in Northamptonshire; and on the M4 westbound from J22 for the Pilning Interchange near Severn Beach across the Prince of Wales Bridge to J26 for Newport. The M1 northbound from J22 near Leicester to J26 for Nottingham, near the Peak District, could face 40-minute delays. Queues of 50 minutes along the M25 anticlockwise from J4 for Sevenoaks to the Dartford Crossing are also likely. The RAC and Inrix are jointly urging those setting off at the weekend to travel as early or late as possible – with traffic set to be at its worst through the middle of the day. Anyone going away today or on Sunday was encouraged to try to start their trips before 10am or after 7pm, while Saturday drivers were told to consider heading out before 10am. RAC mobile servicing and repairs team leader Nick Mullender said tomorrow is expected be the 'single busiest day for summer traffic with many drivers travelling long distances to get to their holiday destination'.
BBC News
05-07-2025
- Climate
- BBC News
Landslip causes major train delays across Surrey and Sussex
A landslip has caused significant delays and train cancellations across both Surrey and incident happened in the Horley area on Friday evening and National Rail said it expected the disruption to last until the end of means trains between Purley/Redhill and Gatwick Airport may be cancelled, delayed by up to 20 minutes or suspended, says National Rail. Gatwick Express services between Brighton, Gatwick Airport and London Victoria and Thameslink services between Brighton and Cambridge, and Three Bridges and Bedford (stopping via Redhill) will be suspended until the end of the day. A spokesperson for National Rail said: "Currently, the information from the site of the landslip suggests that some repair works are needed before they can reopen all lines. "Until these are done, staff will need to reduce the number of trains running through the area."However, National Rail has not confirmed the cause of the landslip. National Rail advises passengers to check for updates on their train service before travelling. It added tickets would be accepted on the following alternative routes at no extra cost:Southern services on any reasonable route, including between London Victoria and Gatwick AirportThameslink services on any reasonable route, including between London Bridge and Gatwick Airport / BrightonGreat Northern services between Cambridge and London Kings CrossLondon Underground between London TerminalsMetrobus routes between Redhill, Salfords, Horley, Gatwick Airport, Three Bridges and Crawley
Time Business News
02-07-2025
- Time Business News
The Ultimate Cost-Saving Guide: Reliable and Cheap Airport Transfers in London
Navigating the chaos of airport travel can be exhausting, especially when it comes to getting to and from major London airports. Between skyrocketing last-minute taxi rates and unreliable public transport, it's easy to feel like you're overpaying for the convenience of simply reaching your terminal on time. But here's the good news: it doesn't have to be that way. This cost-saving guide is your one-stop resource for finding cheap airport transfers in London, without sacrificing comfort, reliability, or punctuality. Whether you're after a cheap minicab to Heathrow, a fixed-price Stansted taxi, or luxury airport transfers across the UK, we've got the know-how to get you there smoothly—without emptying your wallet. Many travelers still opt for a London airport taxi upon arrival, unaware that booking a fixed-price minicab in advance is often 30–50% cheaper. Let's start by addressing the elephant in the room: airport transport in London can be brutally overpriced, especially if you book at the last minute or hail a cab directly from the terminal. Here's why: Dynamic pricing : On-demand taxis and ride-hailing apps surge prices during peak hours, bad weather, or high-demand seasons. : On-demand taxis and ride-hailing apps surge prices during peak hours, bad weather, or high-demand seasons. Lack of transparency : Many travellers are unaware of fixed-price airport minicab options and end up paying unpredictable fares. : Many travellers are unaware of options and end up paying unpredictable fares. Public transport limitations: Trains and tubes don't run 24/7, and navigating luggage through crowded stations is no one's idea of luxury. Solution? Plan smart. Book early. Choose the right service. Now, let's dig into your best options—sorted by airport, budget, and travel preference. London Heathrow is Europe's busiest airport, which means competition is fierce and prices vary wildly. Booking a cheap minicab to Heathrow in advance can save you up to 40% compared to traditional black cabs. Insider Tips: Opt for a fixed-price minicab company instead of app-based rideshares. company instead of app-based rideshares. Look for services with free flight monitoring , so delays don't mean extra charges. , so delays don't mean extra charges. For budget-savvy travellers, cheap last-minute airport taxi deals are often available on aggregator websites—especially during off-peak hours. Pro Tip: Use a provider that offers 24/7 airport pickups in London, so you're covered for red-eye flights or unexpected delays. If you've ever taken the Gatwick Express, you'll know it's not exactly the budget traveller's dream. While fast, it's often more expensive than a private car—especially when travelling as a family or group. Best Bet? London Gatwick transfers via licensed minicabs can be more economical—and more convenient—especially with door-to-door service and no station schlepping. Average fares (as of 2025): Minicab from Central London to Gatwick : £45–£60 (fixed) : £45–£60 (fixed) Train + taxi hybrid: £30–£70 (variable, and stressful) With a cheap airport transfer in London, you're not just saving money—you're buying peace of mind. Stansted is a favourite for low-cost airlines—but don't let the affordable airfare fool you. Transport to and from this airport can quickly offset the savings if you're not careful. Reliable minicab services now offer guaranteed, fixed fares—meaning what you book is what you pay. No surge pricing. No drama. What to look for: Flat-rate airport transfers to major London zones No hidden fees for night-time pickups Real-time driver tracking and text alerts Smaller but increasingly popular, London City Airport and Luton offer some hidden gems when it comes to airport transfers. Why minicabs win: Unlike black cabs, cheap airport transfers in London via minicabs can be booked online with transparent pricing. via minicabs can be booked online with transparent pricing. You avoid the congestion charge surprises often added to metered fares. Services like airport pickups London include meet-and-greet options—ideal for business travellers. If you're flying from Luton, look for deals on affordable airport transfers London-wide that include free cancellation and group discounts. Let's bust a myth: luxury airport transfers UK-wide don't have to be exorbitantly priced. Many services offer executive-class vehicles (think: Mercedes E-Class, BMW 5 Series) at surprisingly affordable rates—especially if booked in advance. For example: Executive minicab from Heathrow to Central London : Starts at £60–£75 : Starts at £60–£75 Comes with Wi-Fi, bottled water, and professional drivers Ideal for: Business travellers Special occasions (honeymooners, we see you) Anyone who wants to arrive in style without splurging A fixed-price airport minicab takes the guesswork out of travel budgeting. Whether you're heading to Stansted at dawn or catching a late-night red-eye from Gatwick, flat rates help you avoid: Surge pricing during peak hours Unpredictable delays on public transport Stress over meter ticking in traffic 24/7 availability Flight tracking Parking fees included Luggage assistance For families, this is a no-brainer. For solo travellers, it's a safe and budget-conscious choice. Scenario Best Option Travelling solo on a budget Cheap last-minute airport taxi deal Group of 4+ with luggage Fixed-price minicab or minivan service Late-night flight Airport pickups London with 24/7 support Business class upgrade vibe Luxury airport transfers UK service Family holiday Affordable airport transfers London with booster seats Look for: Licensed, insured operators with a visible track record Verified customer reviews on platforms like Trustpilot or Google Transparent pricing pages (no small print surprises) Bonus: Companies that offer live driver tracking and customer support tend to be more trustworthy and reliable. Here's a rapid-fire list of insider tricks to lock in cheap airport transfers in London: Book 24–48 hours in advance for best rates. Avoid booking through airport desks or last-minute apps—they often carry markups. Look for off-peak discounts, especially on weekday midday transfers. Use aggregator websites to compare real-time prices. Share a ride if possible—many services offer shared transfers to the same airport. Airport travel in London doesn't have to be stressful or expensive. Whether you're booking a cheap minicab to Heathrow, a Stansted taxi fixed price, or indulging in luxury airport transfers UK, there's a smart, budget-friendly way to do it right. By using fixed-price, reputable minicab services and planning ahead, you're not just saving money—you're saving time, sanity, and potentially your next holiday. So next time you're packing your bags, don't forget to book your ride. Because in the world of travel, how you get there matters just as much as where you're going. TIME BUSINESS NEWS
The Independent
01-07-2025
- Climate
- The Independent
Delays across UK rail network after heatwave causes speed restrictions
Trains in England will continue to run under speed restrictions today as temperatures soar to highs of 35C in the UK. Passengers travelling on the Brighton Main Line have been warned to check before they travel this week as speed restrictions slow down rail journeys on Southern, Thameslink and Gatwick Express services. The speed restrictions were put in place at the weekend through to Tuesday evening (1 July) as track temperatures neared 50C. On Sunday (29 June), Network Rail Kent and Sussex said on X/Twitter: 'Rail temperatures are predicted to soar with the mercury expected to hit 50C on the track itself, which means that we need to impose blanket speed restrictions on part of the Brighton Main Line to ensure everyone's safety. The speed restriction will be in place on both Monday and Tuesday.' Trains running between London Paddington towards the west, including Great Western Railway (GWR) services, are also subject to longer journey times and potential cancellations as temperatures rise. A GWR spokesperson said the speed restrictions imposed west of Paddington were likely to mean a 10 to 15 minute delay on most trains, reported The Guardian. Elsewhere, National Rail travel advice says: 'Between approximately 10:00 and 19:00 today, an emergency speed restriction will be in place between East Croydon and Burgess Hill due to predicted high track temperatures.' Between these stations, trains may be delayed by 'up to 20 minutes or revised'. Gatwick Express services will also only run between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport, with most Southern services from London Victoria towards Littlehampton terminating at West Worthing, said National Rail. According to the Network Rail website, speed restrictions are used in hot weather as 'railway tracks can heat up to 50 degrees and risk buckling – which is unsafe for trains to pass over'. It adds: 'By slowing trains down, they exert lower forces on the track, reducing the chance of this happening.' Network Rail's industry weather response director, Lisa Angus, said: 'Trains run on steel rails, which expand in the heat. While air temperatures are forecast to reach around 34C in London, which is tough for people, the temperatures of the tracks will be much higher. 'We paint sensitive parts of our railway white to reflect heat, but there is only so much that paint can achieve before we may have to take action to slow trains down in some places.' Restrictions are expected to stay until at least 10pm on Tuesday, according to railway managers. Network Rail said in a post on X/Twitter: 'With temperatures set to soar as forecast by the Met Office, speed restrictions have to be imposed across large parts of the network to ensure everyone's safety. 'We won't be able to run as many trains as normal, and journeys will take longer. Trains that are running will also be much busier. If you are able to work from home, then that may be your best option. 'If you do take the train, then please remember to take a bottle of water and if you begin to feel unwell, seek help at the next station and speak to station staff. Pulling emergency alarms onboard may delay us getting help to you.'
