Rye Railway Station to Close on Bonfire Night for Safety

Station closure agreed for crowd management

Rye railway station will close from 3pm on Saturday, November 14, during the town's bonfire night celebrations. Trains will run through without stopping until services return to normal on Sunday, November 15.

The decision has been made jointly by Southern Railway, Rye Bonfire Society and Sussex Police to reduce anti-social behaviour and prevent overcrowding from visitors arriving by train.

Paul Wyborn, area manager for Southern Rail, said: "As with previous years, Rye railway station will be closed for reasons of public safety, from 3pm on the day of the town bonfire celebrations. Community organisers and members of the local multi-agency Safety Advisory Group have helped us reach this decision."

He added that journey planners including nationalrail.co.uk have been updated with the revised timetable, and urged people to consider alternatives if planning to travel that day.

Impact on behaviour and policing

The closure is intended to manage the large crowds expected and prevent visitors from being stranded, as final trains would not have capacity for the numbers attending.

James Foster, chairman of Rye Bonfire Society, said: "We support Southern's decision. The closure of Rye station limits the numbers coming from out of town and prevents an influx of youths who, in the past, have caused trouble. It has a noticeable positive impact on crowd behaviour, and this is clearly demonstrated by the reduction in police incidents."

Sussex Police has backed the measure. Chief Inspector Sarah Taylor said: "To ensure public safety, a decision has been made to close Rye Station during the bonfire event. Police officers will be working closely with partners to maintain order, prevent crime, and respond swiftly to any incidents."

Part of wider regional strategy

The closure follows a similar decision affecting Lewes and four nearby stations on Thursday, November 5. The measure is part of broader efforts to keep bonfire night events across the region safe and manageable.

The Rye multi-agency Safety Advisory Group, which includes Rother District Council, emergency services, the Rye Bonfire Society and Southern Railway, said the closure is supported by all parties and reflects the approach taken at other major bonfire events in the region.

Residents and visitors are advised to attend their nearest bonfire celebrations rather than travelling to Rye or other towns.

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