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Darlington to Southampton train times and prices
* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.
7-day train ticket price trend
£49.30
On Tue 20
Live timetable and departures
Travelling from Darlington to Southampton, the fastest train takes 4h 49m with an average travel time of 8h 23m. 4 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:08 and the last at 23:14. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
05:52 Darlington | 4h 49m, 3 change | 10:41 Southampton Airport Parkway | LNER | Find tickets |
22:29 Darlington | 8h 23m, 2 change | 06:52 Southampton Airport Parkway | LNER | Find tickets |
23:14 Darlington | 10h, 3 change | 09:14 Southampton Airport Parkway | LNER | Find tickets |
Compare train operators from Darlington to Southampton
- LNER
- South Western Railway
- London Underground
LNER is (rightfully) considered one of the UK’s finest long-distance rail operators, known for its speed, comfort and reliability when you’re travelling anywhere between London, the East Midlands, Yorkshire and Scotland, including Leeds, Edinburgh and York. Having modernised their trains in 2019 to the Azuma fleet, you can always expect an enjoyable journey along the East Coast Main Line.

First Class

Standard
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience

"If you're on the taller side or simply looking to stretch out a bit, First Class offers an extra 7cm of legroom!
This may not seem like all that much, but trust me - it makes all the difference. I was patting myself on the back on the third hour of my recent London to Edinburgh journey."
Essential onboard policies
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Luggage
- Most UK train operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage free of charge.
- This is commonly considered three items per passenger, typically 2 larger bags and 1 smaller bag. Larger items cover suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
- Bags go in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated floor-level luggage stacks.
- Occasionally, some providers have stricter policies, such as Lumo, which enforces a limit of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small under-seat bag per person.
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Bicycle
- Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed.
- Bike reservations are required on some services and are usually free.
- Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes.
- Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted.
- We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
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Children
- Children under 5 usually travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger.
- Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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Pets
- Each provider generally allows up to two animals per passenger free of charge, but individual operators can have additional restrictions.
- Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier.
- Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
- Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange free assistance with their train operator.
- This includes help at the station, boarding and leaving the train, and making connections. Assistance can also include ramps for wheelchair users and help finding accessible facilities or the correct platform.
- Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available on many trains, although facilities vary by service.
- To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
Delay Repay & Refund Policies from Darlington to Southampton

Apply for LNER Delay Repay
If your LNER train is delayed or cancelled, you can claim compensation based on your arrival time:
30 to 59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, or 50% of the delayed portion of a return ticket.
60 to 119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, or 100% of the delayed portion of a return ticket.
120+ minutes: 100% of a single or return ticket. (Note: Two separate Advance Single tickets do not count as a return; you can only claim for the specific delayed ticket).
FAQ
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How much is a train from Darlington to Southampton?
Tickets from Darlington to Southampton typically cost £119.94, but can be as cheap as £49.30 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.
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How long is the train from Darlington to Southampton?
The journey should take, on average, 8h 23m, though it can be as quick as 4h 49m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.
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Is there a direct train from Darlington to Southampton?
If a direct route exists: Yes, there is a direct train between Darlington and Southampton. However, you will find indirect services listed too, including options where you'll need to change trains. Check each listing for either "direct" or how many stops are required when purchasing your ticket.
If no direct route exists: There is no direct service between Darlington and Southampton. Instead, when browsing routes, you will see our recommendations for the most convenient and time-efficient stations to change at.
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How far in advance can I book my train from Darlington to Southampton?
You can typically book tickets from Darlington to Southampton up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do Darlington to Southampton trains offer Wi-Fi?
[If journeys include Merseyrail and/or Northern]: Although Wi-Fi is becoming increasingly present on rail services, it can still depend on who provides your specific route. For instance, Merseyrail and older Northern models do not offer Wi-Fi currently; all other providers do, however.
[All others:] Yes, most trains on the route from Darlington to Southampton are equipped with Wi-Fi, as well as power sockets at your seat. However, please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company.
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How far is Darlington from Southampton?
The distance between Darlington and Southampton is approximately 250 miles (402km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from Darlington to Southampton?
There is 4 train running from Darlington to Southampton per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
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How can I buy the cheapest tickets from Darlington to Southampton?
To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!
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How do I check if my train is delayed or cancelled?
Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.
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Can my 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 and Off-Peak 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.
More train routes
* 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.



























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