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Guildford to London Waterloo 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
€9.31
On Tue 3
Live timetable and departures
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
03:30 Guildford | 2h 41m, 2 change | 06:11 London Waterloo | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
04:30 Guildford | 2h 26m, 2 change | 06:56 London Waterloo | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
04:55 Guildford | 1h 17m, Direct | 06:12 London Waterloo | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
05:14 Guildford | 1h 6m, 1 change | 06:20 London Waterloo | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
05:14 Guildford | 1h 12m, Direct | 06:26 London Waterloo | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
Compare train operators from Guildford to London Waterloo
- South Western Railway
- Great Western Railway
South Western Railway (SWR) provides commuter and regional services across London and the south-west of England. It runs from London Waterloo along the South West Main Line, the Portsmouth Direct Line, among other regional lines. Though SWR often receives criticism for delays and cancellations, its trains feature plenty of seating, so you’re less likely to be standing at peak times.
First Class
Standard
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"If you’re travelling with bags, it’s worth noting that most South Western Railway trains don’t have dedicated luggage areas. You’ll have to make do with overhead racks, underseat space and floor space; just make sure you’re not blocking aisles, doorways or wheelchair spaces. Consider upgrading to First Class for some extra space while prices start at £5 on weekends."
"If you’re travelling to or from London Waterloo, SWR’s main hub, make sure to allow some extra time for navigating the station, especially at peak times. Waterloo is the UK’s largest station and one of the busiest, so allow an extra 10 to 15 minutes if you’re trying to catch the Tube downstairs or a connecting train."
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.
Departing from Guildford
Address:
Station Approach, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4UT
Public Transport Links:
Bus: Local bus services stop on Station Approach and Farnham Road directly outside the station, with connections across Guildford and the wider Surrey area. The RailAir bus to London Heathrow airport also departs from here.
Taxi: A licensed taxi rank is located directly outside the main station on Station Approach. Just look for the turquoise cars.
Car: A new multi-storey car park with 320 spaces is under construction as part of the station redevelopment, expected to open in 2026. Alternative options are on Farnham Road and Bedford Road.
Platforms:
8 platforms (7 in use), managed by Network Rail. South Western Railway and Great Western Railway both serve Guildford, with step-free access available throughout. Note that Guildford is currently undergoing a major £150 million redevelopment, and some facilities and routes around the station may be affected.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"For food near the station, Pasta Evangelists is just a short walk away and serves some of the finest fresh pasta in Surrey. For a drink, the Rodboro Buildings on Bridge Street is one of Guildford's most characterful pubs – a former Dennis Brothers factory turned into an atmospheric bar, with exposed beams and a great selection of beers. If you have a little longer, follow the River Wey from the station to Millmead Lock – a lovely 10-minute walk down the tow path. The White House pub or The Weyside, a little further, both sit right by the water and are great spots for a drink with a view."
FAQs about Guildford Station
Are there two train stations in Guildford?
Yes, Guildford has two railway stations. Guildford station on Station Approach is the main station, served by South Western Railway and Great Western Railway with intercity services to London Waterloo, Portsmouth, Reading and Gatwick. London Road is a smaller station on the eastern side of town, served by local South Western Railway services only.
How long is the train from Guildford to London?
South Western Railway operates frequent direct services from Guildford to London Waterloo, with journey times of approximately 35-40 minutes on faster services and around 1 hour on standard services. Trains run throughout the day with frequent departures.
Which station in London goes to Guildford?
Most trains from Guildford are operated by South Western Railway and arrive at London Waterloo. Great Western Railway also operates services on the North Downs Line between Reading and Gatwick Airport, stopping at Guildford en route.
What train line is Guildford on?
Guildford sits at a major junction where several lines converge – the Portsmouth Direct Line from London Waterloo, the North Downs Line from Reading via Redhill and the Alton Line – and is served by both South Western Railway and Great Western Railway.
Arriving at London Waterloo
Address:
Station Approach, London, SE1 8SW, United Kingdom
Onward Transit Options:
London Underground: Located in Fare Zone 1, the station is directly linked to Waterloo Tube station on the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines.
Bus: Hop on TfL routes and night buses from the main Victory Arch exit (stops A, B, C, V and W), Tenison Way (stops H, J and K) and Waterloo Road (stops D, E and F). Areas served include Holborn, Lambeth, Oxford Street and Elephant & Castle. The express Bakerloop service from stop D is a speedier way to get to Old Kent Road, New Cross and Lewisham.
River bus: Travel along the River Thames to and from the London Eye Waterloo Pier (a 6-minute walk from the station).
Taxi pick-up and drop-off: Licensed black cabs take passengers to and from the taxi rank on Waterloo Road.
Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions:
Leake Street graffiti tunnel (5-min walk)
Southbank Centre (6-min walk)
London Eye (8-min walk)
Big Ben (15-min walk)
Tate Modern (17-min walk)
Airport Transfers:
Direct trains run twice an hour to Southampton Airport; board a South Western Railway service to Southampton Airport Parkway (1 hour and 10 minutes on average). The station is only 100 metres from the terminal building.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"The lower concourse is a great waiting area away from the crowds, with a Sainsbury’s Local and Black Sheep Coffee for quick refreshments, plenty of seats and tables and often another passenger playing on the station piano. If you’ve got loads of time to spare, check out more shops and eateries in The Sidings, a new retail space with exciting pop-ups and BrewDog’s flagship bar housing duckpin bowling lanes and a giant slide."
FAQs: London Waterloo Station
Where is London Waterloo station?
London Waterloo is in the Waterloo area in Lambeth, a short walk from the south bank of the River Thames.
Which Tube line is Waterloo station on?
Waterloo station is on the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines, together covering major residential, business and sightseeing areas. Passengers can take a direct shuttle to Bank on the Waterloo & City line. Other lines head to locations across northwest, central, east and south London, including Oxford Circus, Morden and Stratford.
Is Waterloo East and Waterloo the same station?
No, Waterloo East is a separate rail station, connected to London Waterloo via a walkway.
Is there food at Waterloo station?
Yes, choose from over 20 outlets, from West Cornish Pasty, Pret and M&S to Costa and other coffee shops.
What facilities are there at Waterloo station?
London Waterloo has plenty of shops and eateries, as well as a ticket office, toilets and left luggage facilities.
South Western Railway trains from Guildford to London Waterloo
South Western Railway (SWR) operates the vast majority of services on the busy commuter Guildford to London Waterloo corridor, with over 120 direct trains running daily. Fast services cover the 27-mile journey in as little as 35 minutes, typically averaging 47–58 minutes.
Is SWR First Class worth the upgrade?
First Class on this route is designed for comfort rather than luxury. You’ll benefit from wider seating, more legroom, and a quieter carriage, especially valuable during peak commuting hours. However, there is no complimentary catering. If you need a calm space to work or want to avoid crowded Standard coaches, it’s a worthwhile upgrade.
What are the onboard seating and comfort options?
How much luggage and bike space is available?
Luggage provision is functional but limited. Overhead racks are suitable for small cases, while larger suitcases should be placed in designated areas. Cycle storage is available but restricted, operating on a first-come basis. Non-folding bicycles are not permitted on peak-hour services to or from Waterloo, ensuring adequate space for standing passengers.
Train travels from Guildford to London Waterloo
This journey is straightforward but benefits from knowing station layouts and connections at both ends.
Departure from Guildford
Specific transport links
- Bus connections: Onslow Street bus station sits adjacent, with frequent Safeguard and Stagecoach routes linking the town centre and suburbs.
- Park and Ride: Artington Park & Ride offers a direct, cost-effective link to the station entrance, avoiding central traffic.
- Taxi and drop-off: A well-organised forecourt provides a steady flow of taxis and private drop-offs directly outside the entrance.
Station layout
- Platform allocation: Fast SWR services to London depart from Platforms 2 and 3, clearly signposted on boards.
- Alternative routes: Slower stopping services via Cobham usually depart from Platform 1, so always check live updates.
- Concourse design: A central ticket hall connects to all platforms via a wide footbridge, allowing easy cross-platform movement.
Pre-departure essentials
Guildford station is well-equipped for quick purchases before boarding. WHSmith on the concourse is ideal for meal deals, drinks, and travel essentials. For coffee, Costa Coffee and Pumpkin Cafe are conveniently placed on or near the platforms, allowing you to grab refreshments without straying far from your departure point.
Onboard trains from Guildford to London Waterloo
SWR’s Class 444 and 450 trains operate this route, reaching speeds of up to 100 mph on faster sections.
The scenic side
- Sit on the left-hand side for clear views of the Surrey Hills and North Downs, particularly scenic in daylight hours.
- Sit on the right-hand side to get a better vantage point of busy junctions and passing trains at major interchanges like Woking.
Key landmarks
- Woking landmark: The Martian Tripod sculpture near Woking station references H.G. Wells’ literary connection to the area.
- Rail activity: Clapham Junction showcases dense rail traffic, giving a sense of the network’s scale and connectivity.
- Urban transition: Notice the gradual shift from open countryside into tightly packed London suburbs as you approach the capital.
- Battersea Power Station: The iconic four chimneys appear on approach to Waterloo, signalling you are close to arrival.
Arriving at London Waterloo
London Waterloo handles over 70 million passengers annually, making it the second busiest station in the UK. With 24 platforms and a vast concourse, it efficiently channels passengers into central London.
The correct exit
- South Bank exit: Follow Exit 4 signage for direct access to the riverfront, the London Eye, and cultural attractions.
- Station Approach exit: Exit 3 leads to the main taxi rank and organised pick-up points for private hire vehicles.
- Victory Arch exit: Exit 5 positions you perfectly for Waterloo Bridge and quick access to the West End.
- Underground connections: Clearly marked internal routes guide you directly to Tube lines without leaving the station.
Onward travel
- London Underground: Direct access to Bakerloo, Northern Line, Jubilee, and Waterloo & City lines for fast connections across London.
- Bus services: Major bus stops outside Victory Arch serve multiple high-frequency routes to central and outer districts
- Taxi services: Black cabs are readily available at the main rank, offering reliable onward travel without pre-booking.
Walkability
Waterloo is exceptionally well located for exploring central London on foot. Within 10–15 minutes, you can reach Westminster, the South Bank, and key landmarks such as the Houses of Parliament. The area is pedestrian-friendly, with clear signage and river crossings, meaning many travellers can comfortably complete their journey without needing additional transport.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Delay Repay & Refund Policies from Guildford to London Waterloo
Apply for South Western Railway Delay Repay
If your SWR train is delayed, you can claim compensation depending on the length of your delay:
15-29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket, 12.5% of a return ticket or 12.5% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
30-59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 25% of a return ticket or 25% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
60-119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket or 50% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
Over 120 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 100% of a return ticket or 100% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey. (Note: Two separate Advance Single tickets do not count as a return; you can only claim for the specific delayed ticket).
Apply for Great Western Railway Delay Repay
If your Great Western Railway train is delayed, you can claim compensation depending on the length of your delay:
15–29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket, 12.5% of a return ticket or 25% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
30–59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 25% of a return ticket or 50% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
60–119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket or 100% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
Over 120 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 100% of a return ticket or 200% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey. (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 Guildford to London Waterloo?
Tickets from Guildford to London Waterloo typically cost €23.18, but can be as cheap as €9.31 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 Guildford to London Waterloo?
The journey should take, on average, 1h 3m, though it can be as quick as 32m 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 Guildford to London Waterloo?
Yes, there is a direct train between Guildford and London Waterloo. However, you will find indirect services listed too, including where you will have to make a changeover. Check each listing for either ‘direct’ or how many stops are required when purchasing your ticket.
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How far in advance can I book my train from Guildford to London Waterloo?
You can typically book tickets from Guildford to London Waterloo up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do Guildford to London Waterloo trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from Guildford to London Waterloo 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 compan.
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How far is Guildford from London Waterloo?
The distance between Guildford and London Waterloo is approximately 27 miles (44km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from Guildford to London Waterloo?
There is 100 train running from Guildford to London Waterloo per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
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How can I buy the cheapest tickets from Guildford to London Waterloo?
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.
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* 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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