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London to Brighton train ticket prices
£8.00
On Tue 05 May
London to Brighton train timetable
Journey from London to Brighton on the fastest train in 58m, usually 1h 3m. Every day, 180 trains leave from London, starting at 00:02 and ending at 23:38. During Off-Peak Times from 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter and less crowded journey. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with us.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
22:24 London Victoria | 1h 11m, Direct | 23:35 Brighton | Southern | Find tickets |
22:29 London Victoria | 1h 3m, Direct | 23:32 Brighton | Gatwick Express | Find tickets |
22:35 London Bridge | 1h 8m, Direct | 23:43 Brighton | Thameslink | Find tickets |
22:40 London Bridge | 1h 17m, 2 change | 23:57 Brighton | Southern | Find tickets |
22:40 London Bridge | 1h 26m, 1 change | 00:06 Brighton | Southern | Find tickets |
London to Brighton train tickets and times
Plan your journey from London 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.
Thameslink vs Gatwick Express: Which should you choose?
Train operators | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Thameslink | 1h 10m | London Bridge | Budget friendly | First Class option, Wi-Fi and roomy seat |
Gatwick Express | 1h | London Victoria | Direct travel, speed | Standard and Premium fares both offering large tables and a fast connection for work |
- Thameslink is the most affordable option, maintaining high comfort standards on board with a similar travelling time to Gatwick Express.
- Gatwick Express offers a high-speed and direct connection to Brighton. The train is very efficient and often gets you to Brighton in less than an hour. Tickets are more costly, but it can be a great option for working during your commute or avoiding the stress of catching a connection.
Train travel from London to Brighton
London Victoria & Bridge: Getting to the Platform
Victoria has its own built-in Underground station, served by three lines: the Victoria line and the District and Circle lines (sub-surface), making it reachable from virtually anywhere in Zone 1 in under 15 minutes. There’s also a large bus station that sits directly outside the main entrance in the station forecourt.
London Bridge Station is located in central London, in Southwark, with entrances on both Tooley Street and St Thomas Street. Its Underground Station is on the Northern Line and Jubilee Line, with regular Tube services connecting to anywhere in Zone 1 in under 15 minutes.
The Upper Level provides access to platforms 1–9 for mainline train services, whilst the Lower Level has connections to the Jubilee Line and Northern Line (Bank branch) on the London Underground. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes throughout the station, and direct access to Borough Market for having a quick meal before departure.
Onboard trains from London to Brighton
The scenic side
The train winds through the densely built urban landscape of south London's inner suburbs and gradually gives way to the Sussex countryside. Beyond East Croydon and Gatwick you can spot rolling hills and open fields stretching out on either side of the tracks.
Key landmarks
Ouse Valley Viaduct, between Balcombe and Haywards Heath, is a breathtaking Victorian structure of 37 arches constructed from warm red brick. It carries the railway line across the River Ouse valley below – a testament to 19th-century railway construction at its finest.
Arriving at Brighton
Brighton station is a spectacular Victorian terminus, opened in 1840. As you step off the train, the main concourse and ticket gates are directly ahead, with shops on the concourse.
The correct exit
Main Exit (Queen's Road): Walk straight through the ticket gates and out onto Queen's Road for the most direct route to the seafront. The sea is visible within moments and is approximately a ten-minute walk straight ahead down the hill.
Trafalgar Street Exit (North Laine): Head to the left-hand side of the concourse for Trafalgar Street, which leads under the station into the North Laine — Brighton's shopping and café district.
Rear Exit (Cycle Hub & Taxi Rank): The rear exit, accessible through the station, leads to the taxi rank (next to platform 8) and the Brighton Cycle Hub, a purpose-built three-storey facility with storage for 500 bikes, a repair shop, café, showers and changing rooms.
Onward Travel
Buses: Six bus stops are located directly in front of Brighton station on the forecourt, served by numerous Brighton & Hove Bus routes. Routes 7 and 27 from the forecourt take you to North Street for the Royal Pavilion, and route 27 also serves the Sea Life Centre near the pier.
By foot to the seafront: Brighton Palace Pier and the beach are approximately a 15-minute walk south from the station exit, straight down Queen's Road and West Street. Bournemouth Pier is around 30 minutes on foot, and the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum is 20 minutes away.
London to Brighton train travel guide
Travelling by train from London to Brighton is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from London, you can reach Brighton in just 58m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from London to Brighton?
Ticket prices from London to Brighton average around £8.00, 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 London to Brighton?
What is the fastest train from London to Brighton?
The fastest train journey time from London to Brighton is 58m. 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 Brighton?
No, you will need to transfer when travelling from London 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 London 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?
You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.
Check timetables and during the journey
How do I find London to Brighton train timetables?
London to Brighton trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.
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 London to Brighton trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the London 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?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by 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?
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 London to Brighton route?
The route from London to Brighton is operated by Thameslink. 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
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.
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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
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
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Pets
Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. 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 assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
How to buy cheap London to Brighton train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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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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