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Cambridge to Brighton train ticket prices

Travelling from Cambridge to Brighton by train? Find fares from as low as €24.65. 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.

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Cambridge to Brighton train timetable

From Cambridge to Brighton, take the fastest train in 2h 27m, typically 2h 30m. Daily, 45 trains depart from Cambridge, with the first at 05:21 and the last at 23:51. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.

Departs		Arrives	Operator
22:42 Cambridge	7h 28m, 2 change	06:10 Brighton	Great Northern	Find tickets
22:51 Cambridge	7h 52m, 1 change	06:43 Brighton	Thameslink	Find tickets
23:51 Cambridge	6h 22m, 1 change	06:13 Brighton	Great Northern	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 €24.65

Departure station

Cambridge

Arrival station

Brighton

Distance

95 miles (153km)

Journey time

2h 27m

First train

05:21

Last train

23:51

Frequency

Train operators

Great Northern, Thameslink, Gatwick Express

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 €24.65 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

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

Ticket prices from Cambridge to Brighton average around €24.65, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.

How do I find the best train route from Cambridge to Brighton?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from Cambridge to Brighton.

What is the fastest train from Cambridge to Brighton?

The quickest train journey from Cambridge to Brighton takes 2h 27m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.

Are there direct trains from Cambridge to Brighton?

No, there are no direct trains from Cambridge to Brighton. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip

Is it worth taking a train from Cambridge to Brighton?

Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

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?

Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing 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?

Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the train operator.

Other things you might be interested

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

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.

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

Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone

Which train companies operate the Cambridge to Brighton route?

The train from Cambridge to Brighton is operated by Great Northern. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.
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
All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee 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.

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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

Step-by-step instructions for changing your journey or requesting a refund are available on our ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

More train routes

Trains from Cambridge	Trains from Brighton
Cambridge to Peterborough	Brighton to Southampton
Cambridge to Birmingham New Street	Brighton to East Croydon
Cambridge to Stansted	Brighton to London Bridge
Cambridge to London	Brighton to Gatwick Airport
Cambridge to London Kings Cross	Brighton to Clapham Junction

* 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.

Cambridge to Brighton Trains From €24.65*

Save more on your travel: Book Advance tickets and use a Railcard