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Cambridge to Brighton train ticket prices

Travelling from Cambridge to Brighton by train? Find fares from as low as £23.35. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

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On Wed 17 Jun

  • Wed17 Jun
  • £23.35󰄽
    Thu18 Jun
  • £23.35󰄽
    Fri19 Jun
  • £23.35󰄽
    Sat20 Jun
  • £23.35󰄽
    Sun21 Jun
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    Mon22 Jun
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    Tue23 Jun

Cambridge to Brighton train timetable

The journey from Cambridge to Brighton on the fastest train in 2h 27m, usually 2h 27m. Each day, 45 trains leave from Cambridge, starting at 04:51 and ending at 23:51. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

10:21

Cambridge
2h 27m, Direct

12:48

Brighton
Thameslink
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10:51

Cambridge
2h 27m, Direct

13:18

Brighton
Thameslink
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11:21

Cambridge
2h 27m, Direct

13:48

Brighton
Thameslink
Find tickets

11:51

Cambridge
2h 27m, Direct

14:18

Brighton
Thameslink
Find tickets

12:21

Cambridge
2h 27m, Direct

14:48

Brighton
Thameslink
Find tickets
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Cambridge to Brighton train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Cambridge to Brighton with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.

Price
From £23.35
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
95 miles (153km)
Journey time
2h 27m
First train
04:51
Last train
23:51
Frequency
45

Thameslink: Cambridge to Brighton trains

By Daniel Clark | Updated May 20, 2026
Travel from Cambridge to Brighton for an unforgettable beach experience on fast direct routes. Get all the way to the south coast on Thameslink services in approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes without needing to change trains. The beach never felt so close and so affordable, with prices starting from just £23.35 when you buy cheap train tickets with TrainPal.
Whether you’re an early riser, taking the first train of the day at 04:54, or are travelling on the last train at 23:53, Thameslink offers a regular timetable from Cambridge to Brighton. Access one of the most popular seaside destinations in the south of England more easily when you choose days out to the beach by train.
A popular provider of services in and around London, Thameslink connects London St Pancras, Blackfriars, East Croydon, London Bridge, Peterborough, Cambridge, Brighton, and Bedford.

Departing from Cambridge

Start your journey from Cambridge, a major transport hub in the East of England. Conveniently located to the southeast of the iconic city, Cambridge is one of the busiest stations outside London. To enjoy the best beach day trips by train from Cambridge, head to Brighton, a top destination for passengers wanting to enjoy some sea, sand, and sun.
To begin your journey, take local buses from around the city to Cambridge, whether you’re coming from the city centre or further afield. There is also a taxi rank directly outside the main entrance. Finally, Cambridge is a cycling city and if you are arriving by bike, you’ll find a large cycle park outside the station.
The station has everything you need for a comfortable pre-departure experience, with a covered waiting room, comfortable seating areas, accessible toilets, refreshment counters, vending machines, water fountain, ticket machines, and Help Points. 
From Cambridge, travel to Birmingham, Leicester, Norwich, Ely, and multiple London stations, including Liverpool Street, Kings Cross, and St Pancras International. The station’s main operators include CrossCountry, Greater Anglia, Thameslink, and Great Northern.

Main stops

From Cambridge to Brighton with Thameslink, you may call at some or all of Royston, Ashwell & Morden, Baldock, Letchworth Garden City, Hitchin, Stevenage, Finsbury Park, London St Pancras International, Farringdon, City Thameslink, London Blackfriars, London Bridge, East Croydon, Gatwick Airport, Three Bridges, Haywards Heath, and Burgess Hill. Exact stops may vary depending on timetables and dates.

Arriving at Brighton Station

Brighton is one of the best choices for a day out by train from Cambridge, with direct routes to the beach with Thameslink.
When you get off the train at Brighton Station, you’ll be only a short walk to the coast, where you’ll have access to watersports galore, and a classic British old-school pier. In the city centre of Brighton and Hove, East Sussex, visit a range of independent shops and eat in quirky cafes.
Getting around Brighton is easy by foot, bike, or on one of several local buses that can take you directly to the seaside. Before you begin your day out in Brighton, passengers can buy snacks and drinks from counters, while the station has all the typical accessibility features you would expect, such as accessible toilets, tactile pavings, Help Points, and an Induction loop.
From Brighton, board trains to London Victoria, Clapham Junction, London Bridge, London Blackfriars, Eastbourne, Hastings, Southampton, Portsmouth, and Cambridge on services run by Southern, Gatwick Express, and Thameslink.

Thameslink train classes

Thameslink runs Standard Class tickets only on services from Cambridge to Brighton, though travelling with the operator guarantees passengers a comfortable journey. Sit back and relax on long trains that allow passengers to spread out in spacious seating in a 2X2 layout.

Thameslink train travel advice

  • Children: Taking the whole family on days out by train to the beach costs less with free tickets for under 5s, and half-price fares for children aged 5 to 15.
  • Pets: Four-legged friends travel free from Cambridge to Brighton with Thameslink, perfect if you’re heading to the best dog-friendly beaches. Remember to keep dogs on leads at all times.
  • Bicycles: Carry your bike onto Thameslink trains at off-peak hours. Check the exact conditions with the operator before you travel.
  • Luggage: Bring up to three items of luggage per person, giving you plenty of freedom to pack all the beach gear you need. Make use of ample luggage space to store items in racks or under seats.
  • Passenger Assistance: For help boarding the train, navigating Cambridge or Brighton stations, or something else, book help in advance through the Passenger Assist website or app.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Cambridge to Brighton train travel guide

The train journey from Cambridge to Brighton combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Cambridge, you can get to Brighton in just 2h 27m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Cambridge to Brighton?

The average ticket fare from Cambridge to Brighton is about £23.35, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.

What is the best way to travel from Cambridge to Brighton by train?

Utilise the TrainPal app or website to its fullest potential. Our Train Journey Planner is a top-notch online tool for planning your trips. Just enter your departure and arrival cities or stations. Then, review timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and check for food supplies or other amenities. Find the best train route from Cambridge to Brighton.

What is the fastest train from Cambridge to Brighton?

The fastest train journey time from Cambridge to Brighton is 2h 27m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.

Are there direct trains from Cambridge to Brighton?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from Cambridge to Brighton. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from Cambridge to Brighton?

Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

Are Cambridge to Brighton trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

Cambridge to Brighton trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.

How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.

Do Cambridge to Brighton trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Cambridge to Brighton route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.

How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.

Which train companies operate the Cambridge to Brighton route?

The route from Cambridge to Brighton is operated by Great Northern. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.

  • Bicycle

    A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules before you travel.

  • Children

    Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.

  • Pets

    Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • Passenger assistance

    For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.

How to buy cheap Cambridge to Brighton train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.