A railway line had been going through this site from 1868, but it would not be until after the electrification of the line in the 1920’s, that a station would be built in this new commuter town.
Petts Wood opened in 1928, initially with only a single island platform, but a second would be added some 5 years later. The station building is unique, likened by some to resemble a signal box.
A small goods and coal yard was added on the coastbound side, however no goods shed was ever built on the site, and this facility lasted until 1968.
In 1962, signalling was transferred to the new box at Chislehurst, and over the next 40 years, shelters and other platform buildings and furniture was either removed or replaced. Today it is a station of function rather than elegance, however the station building does still retain some charm.
At time of writing, passenger services are provided by class 376, 465, 466 and 700 Electric Multiple Units.
There are 6 trains per hour in both directions on weekdays, with a slightly reduced service at the weekends.
The entry and exit figures for 2019 / 2020 were 2 215 876
As I have previously noted, Petts Wood is a station which is more function over style. However, the quirky station building still exits and it has good passenger facilities, its only let down being it has no step free access. For the enthusiast, fantastic views of all lines are too be had, especially from the connecting footbridge.
Below is a video that was shot in 2021:
Thanks for reading, I’ll leave you with my tagline :
“If you can, get out there, get on the railway, and see where it takes you.” ©
Rainham Rail Enthusiast 