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London to Brighton train ticket prices
£8.00
On Mon 20 Apr
London to Brighton train timetable
Travelling from London to Brighton, the fastest train takes 58m with an average travel time of 1h 17m. With 288 daily trains, the first departs at 00:02 and the last at 23:40. 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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
21:05 London Bridge | 1h 8m, Direct | 22:13 Brighton | Thameslink | Find tickets |
21:05 London Victoria | 1h 13m, 1 change | 22:18 Brighton | Southern | Find tickets |
21:10 London Bridge | 1h 29m, 2 change | 22:39 Brighton | Southern | Find tickets |
21:15 London Bridge | 1h 3m, Direct | 22:18 Brighton | Thameslink | Find tickets |
21:16 London Victoria | 1h 23m, 1 change | 22:39 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
The train journey from London to Brighton combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from London, you can get to Brighton in just 58m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.
Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from London to Brighton?
The average ticket fare from London to Brighton is about £8.00, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.
How do I find the best train route from London to Brighton?
What is the fastest train from London to Brighton?
The quickest train journey from London to Brighton takes 58m . 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 London to Brighton?
No, there are no direct trains from London 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 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?
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
How do I find London to Brighton train timetables?
London 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?
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 Brighton trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from London to Brighton are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company
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?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific 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 Brighton route?
The train from London to Brighton is operated by Thameslink. 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
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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
You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.
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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
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
For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.
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
Your plans have changed?
Your train was disrupted?
* 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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