M3 Overnight Closures near Winchester: October 2026
M3 J8–J13 overnight closures from 12 October 2026. What they mean for late-night and early-morning Heathrow and Gatwick transfers from Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch.
National Highways is resurfacing the M3 between junctions 10 and 13, with overnight closures on both carriageways through the second half of October. This is the motorway most of us use to get from Poole, Bournemouth and Christchurch to Heathrow, and it's part of the usual route to Gatwick, so it's worth knowing if you're flying out late at night or early in the morning.
Daytime traffic isn't affected. The closures run overnight only, from 9pm to 6am.
Closure dates (9pm to 6am)
- Northbound, J13 to J12: two nights from Monday 12 October
- Northbound, J12 to J11: five nights from Wednesday 14 October
- Northbound, J11 to J8: three nights from Monday 19 October
- Southbound, J8 to J12: seven nights from Monday 26 October, running into early November
The northbound closures affect trips from BCP towards Heathrow and Gatwick. The southbound closures affect late-night returns from the airports back to Dorset.
During each closure there's a signed diversion. National Highways advises drivers to follow the diversion signs rather than relying on satnav. Closures can change at short notice, so check the National Highways daily closures page before you travel.
What it means for your airport transfer
If your pickup falls between 9pm and 6am on one of these nights, your driver may need to use the signed diversion. We plan for that: we build in extra time on affected nights and track your flight, so arrivals are covered if the journey takes a little longer.
If you're booking an early-morning departure from Poole, Bournemouth, Christchurch or Sandbanks during these dates, it's worth choosing a slightly earlier pickup. We're happy to suggest a time when you book.
Our fixed fares don't change on closure nights: Heathrow from £150 and Gatwick from £175, door to door, with meet and greet on arrivals.
Book now or call us on 01202 028334.