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London to Bournemouth train ticket prices
€26.40
On Mon 25 May
London to Bournemouth train timetable
Travelling from London to Bournemouth, the fastest train takes 1h 59m with an average travel time of 2h 11m. With 46 daily trains, the first departs at 00:10 and the last at 23:05. Off-Peak hours begin at 09:30 on weekdays, and all-day Off-Peak on weekends and bank holidays. Keep informed of live train status, times, delays, and cancellations with us.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
11:16 London Paddington | 2h 11m, 1 change | 13:27 Bournemouth | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
11:35 London Waterloo | 1h 59m, Direct | 13:34 Bournemouth | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
11:54 London Waterloo | 2h 29m, Direct | 14:23 Bournemouth | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
12:16 London Paddington | 2h 11m, 1 change | 14:27 Bournemouth | Great Western Railway | Find tickets |
12:35 London Waterloo | 1h 59m, Direct | 14:34 Bournemouth | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
London to Bournemouth train tickets and times
Plan your journey from London to Bournemouth 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.
South Western Railway trains from London to Bournemouth
First Class vs Standard — What to choose?
- Standard Class includes free Wi-Fi, power sockets and a trolley service passing through with drinks and snacks. Carriages can get busy, particularly on Friday afternoons and summer weekends heading to the coast.
- First Class offers wider seats in a quieter 2+1 carriage, with extra legroom, tables, 3-pin sockets, USB ports and at-seat wireless charging. There are no dedicated First Class lounges on this route.
What is the luggage allowance?
Small bags can be kept under your seat, medium-sized cases go in the overhead racks, and larger items should be stored in the dedicated luggage areas at the ends of each carriage. SWR recommends no more than 2 large items of luggage per person.
How often does the London to Bournemouth train run?
Train travel from London Waterloo to Bournemouth
London Waterloo: Getting to the Platform
The concourse is large and well-signed, with all platforms at the far end. Ticket offices and self-service machines are near the main entrance. Shops and food outlets are lined on the sides of the concourse, including M&S and McDonald's.
Onboard trains from London Waterloo to Bournemouth
Free Wi-Fi is available throughout, along with USB charging points, air conditioning, and a quiet zone in Coach A. A trolley service operates on most journeys, serving hot and cold drinks and snacks, though availability varies.
The scenic side
Key landmarks
One hour in, you will approach Winchester and be able to spot Winchester Cathedral and its long, low roofline. The medieval cathedral measures 170 m in length, one of the longest in the world.
Arriving at Bournemouth Central
Bournemouth station sits on Holdenhurst Road on the northern edge of the town centre, around 1 km from the beach and the main shopping streets. Trains from London normally arrive on Platform 3, which is the main exit platform — so most passengers step off the train and find themselves directly at the exit.
The correct exit
Holdenhurst Road Exit (Main / South Entrance): The primary exit from Platform 3 opens directly onto Holdenhurst Road.
North Side Entrance: A secondary entrance on the north side of the station, primarily used for boarding. Step-free access across the platforms is via a subway at the eastern end — note the access ramps are comparatively steep.
Onward Travel
Buses: Directly outside the main exit, routes 5 and 5a serve the town centre and seafront (stopping near Bournemouth Pier) with frequent departures. Route 6 goes to Boscombe and route 50 runs to Sandbanks and Poole.
Taxis: The taxi rank is immediately in front of the station on Holdenhurst Road. Accessible taxis are available and advance booking is not normally required.
Onward Rail to Poole and Weymouth: SWR services continue west from Bournemouth to Poole, Wareham, Dorchester South and Weymouth down the coast.
Walkability
Bournemouth town centre and the main shopping streets are around 10–15 minutes on foot heading south from the station. The seafront and beach are approximately 25–30 minutes on foot, or a short ride on bus routes 5 or 6. Bournemouth Pier is around 30 minutes on foot, and the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum is 20 minutes away.
London to Bournemouth train travel guide
Taking the train from London to Bournemouth is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from London, you can arrive at Bournemouth in just 1h 59m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from London to Bournemouth?
The average fare from London to Bournemouth is approximately €26.40, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific dates.
How do I find the best train route from London to Bournemouth?
What is the fastest train from London to Bournemouth?
The fastest train journey time from London to Bournemouth is 1h 59m. 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 London to Bournemouth?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from London to Bournemouth. 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 London to Bournemouth?
Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.
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
Are London to Bournemouth trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
While London to Bournemouth trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from London to Bournemouth is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.
Do London to Bournemouth trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the London to Bournemouth 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?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
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?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
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 London to Bournemouth route?
The route from London to Bournemouth is operated by CrossCountry. 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
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Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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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.
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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.
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Pets
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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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 London to Bournemouth train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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Your train was disrupted?
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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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