Brighton to London Bridge Trains From €2.43*

Go from Brighton to London Bridge by train in just over an hour with Thameslink.

While you sit back and relax, you'll be treated to the sights of travelling almost the whole way through one of the UK's trendiest cities, moving onwards into the vast and incredibly beautiful Sussex countryside. From there, as you pass into Surrey, you go right alongside London Gatwick Airport, so keep an eye out for the big jets taking off and landing! As you cross the M25 and then make the transition from Surrey into Greater London, you'll see life getting busier, before being delivered into the heart of Central London.

Thameslink is responsible for running several important commuter trains linking to London. The northern end of the network stretches to Luton, Peterborough, Bedford and Cambridge, while it also runs trains through most of Surrey, Kent, West Sussex and East Sussex.

Departing from Brighton

If you want to take the easy and cheap Brighton to London Bridge train, you'll need to depart from Brighton Station. The main entrance on Queens Road is grand and unmissable - very fitting for a seaside station. There are six bus stops outside the station offering onward travel to locations within the city and into the wider region. There is a taxi rank at the rear of the station.

Thameslink trains from Brighton call at Gatwick Airport before London Bridge, then continue on various routes to Luton, Bedford, Stevenage and Cambridge. The Gatwick Express offers services to Gatwick Airport and on to London Victoria. Southern services run to destinations like Southampton Central, Portsmouth, Chichester, Seaford and Eastbourne.

Main stops

There are two common stopping patterns on this route. The fastest train calls at Burgess Hill, Haywards Heath, Three Bridges, Gatwick Airport, and East Croydon

The slightly slower train stops at Preston Park, Hassocks, Burgess Hill, Wivelsfield, Haywards Heath, Balcombe, Three Bridges, Gatwick Airport and East Croydon. (And some trains miss out Wivelsfield and Balcombe.)

Arriving at London Bridge

The fastest Brighton to London Bridge service arrives promptly at London Bridge Station. As its name suggests, it is situated right next to London Bridge itself. Despite being the oldest operating London terminus station, it has a grand, modern, sweeping entrance on the A200 road. It's easy to get to, as well: several buses stop outside the station, just as you would expect in Central London. Plus, there is a London Underground station served by trains on the Jubilee and Northern lines.

Thameslink offers services running to Horsham, Gatwick Airport and Rainham, in addition to the ones listed above. Southern run services from London Bridge to East Croydon, Caterham, Beckenham Junction, Epsom, Uckfield and through to London Victoria, among others.

When you arrive here, you are in the centre of an exciting city, and there is plenty to do. Anyone in need of some retail therapy will enjoy Hay's Galleria, nestled between the station and the river. Also in this area is the imposing HMS Belfast, a Royal Navy cruiser that now serves as a fascinating floating museum. A wander across London Bridge will get you into the City of London, or the iconic Tower Bridge will take you to the Tower of London.

Thameslink train classes

• Standard Class: Standard Class offers a great balance between price and comfort. Many Thameslink trains now have on-board Wi-Fi - look out for the blue sticker on the doors.
• First Class: If you want to travel in luxury, then get yourself Brighton to London Bridge First Class tickets. You'll get roomier seating and a quieter, more exclusive travel experience.

Thameslink train travel advice

It's worth checking to see if you can buy cheap train tickets with a Railcard. If you're eligible, you could save a third off most off-peak fares, and there are lots of different types. Check our dedicated Railcard guide now!

• Luggage: If you're bringing a suitcase on board, it might be worth seeking out the main luggage rack. If you just have a smaller case or bag, pop it on the overhead shelf.
• Bicycles: If your bike is a folder, it's welcome on board anytime. If it isn't, be aware that you can't bring cycles on during peak time. Outside peak, though, just bring your bike on the train - no advance booking required.
• Children: Kids' fares can be great value, with under-5s travelling for free (but not getting their own seat) and those aged 5-15 getting 50% off. Plus, up to four children can travel for £2 each when with a fare-paying adult.
• Pets: Pets are welcome, but you can only bring two. They must be in a carrier, but dogs can be on a lead. Carriers must measure a maximum of 85 x 60 x 60 cm.
• Passenger Assist: You can turn up and go on Thameslink services - staff will do their best to help if you let them know at the station. If you can, though, it's best to book the assistance you need in advance by phone or online.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.