Brand-new 24/7 bus service to link Eastbourne, Hailsham, Uckfield, East Grinstead and Gatwick Airport

Metrobus has announced the introduction of a brand-new service, route 500, providing a direct and enhanced bus link between Eastbourne and Gatwick Airport, via Willingdon, Hailsham, East Hoathly, Halland, Uckfield, Maresfield, Forest Row, East Grinstead, Copthorne and Manor Royal Business District.

The new Metrobus service is a joint project launched in partnership with London Gatwick, East Sussex County Council and West Sussex County Council, and will launch on 9th May 2026.

Route 500 will replace existing routes 54 (between Eastbourne and Uckfield) and 261 (between Uckfield and East Grinstead) and will provide a more direct link between East Grinstead and Gatwick. It will serve Gatwick Airport South Terminal, which has easy connections to North Terminal via the shuttle system or by changing to bus routes 10, 100 or 200 at the South Terminal stop (journey time 3 minutes).

View the route 500 map and timetable here.

Concessionary passes will be accepted and a maximum adult fare of £3 will apply throughout the route.

Designed to better meet the needs of local communities, shift workers and airport passengers, service 500 will run 24 hours a day and seven days a week, with buses running hourly during daytime periods on Mondays to Saturdays.

Nick Hill, Commercial Director at Metrobus and Brighton & Hove Buses, said: 

The introduction of service 500 is a major step forward in improving connectivity across Sussex. By working closely with local authorities and Gatwick Airport, we are delivering a reliable, affordable and round-the-clock service that supports local residents, shift workers and airport passengers alike. This new route will allow for better access to jobs, education and Gatwick Airport, while strengthening links between communities across East and West Sussex.

Jonathan Pollard, Chief Commercial Officer at London Gatwick, said: 

We’re delighted to be partnering with Metrobus to launch the eighth 24/7 bus connection serving London Gatwick. Reliable and affordable public transport is vital for our passengers and for the thousands of people who work at the airport around the clock, and service 500 will make it easier for communities across East and West Sussex to access the airport. This new route supports our commitment to improving sustainable surface access while strengthening regional connectivity.

The route 500 will enter service on 9th May 2026

Further details can be found at metrobus.co.uk