The first of a fleet of Southeastern Metro trains that were branded “embarrassing” by the company’s boss has been given a makeover – with another 35 to get the same treatment.

Steve White, the managing director of Southeastern, said three years ago that he was not proud of the 20-year-old Class 376 trains, which were introduced under the long-gone operator Connex and still sported its colour scheme.

Most trains have now had an exterior makeover, but the first to have its worn-out interior refreshed has now rolled out into the network.

The new-look train has a blue colour scheme, refurbished seating, LED lighting and at-seat power and USB points. Priority seats have also been clearly marked while anti-slip strips have been added around doors.

South Eastern Railway – the joint venture between Southeastern and Network Rail which now runs services and looks after the track – said work on the other trains at the Grove Park depot would continue next year and into 2027.

The trains were first introduced in 2004 and have had little attention since then. Image: The Greenwich Wire
Class 376 train in sunshine at London Bridge
The trains have been given a new look on the outside too. Image: Southeastern Railway

In the long-term, the company is still planning to buy a new set of trains to replace the Class 376s and the distinctive Networker fleet, which dates back to the 1990s. Some of the older trains have already been sent for scrap. 

“It’s great to be celebrating this milestone and we will be welcoming refreshed trains regularly throughout 2026 and into 2027,” said Dan Paris, the fleet maintenance director at South Eastern Railway.  “It’s just one part of our plan to deliver better journeys and it sits alongside our wider programme to improve our fleet, which includes the procurement of a newer, more accessible replacement Metro fleet that will be better for customers and taxpayers.” 

Toilets have not been installed on the trains, which run stopping services in routes through SE London. In January, Southeastern said it would be retrofitting its 30 newer City Beam trains to include lavatories.

Train fans who want to see the new-look carriages for themselves can send a WhatsApp message to Southeastern on 07866 002 690 with the message #376027. An automatic response will then show which services the train will be operating on that day.

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