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London to Portsmouth Harbour train ticket prices

Travelling from London to Portsmouth Harbour by train? Find fares from as low as €9.79. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

€9.79󰄽

On Sun 09 Aug

  • €18.36󰄽
    Thu06 Aug
  • €21.42󰄽
    Fri07 Aug
  • €12.24󰄽
    Sat08 Aug
  • Sun09 Aug
  • €21.42󰄽
    Mon10 Aug
  • €19.46󰄽
    Tue11 Aug
  • €19.46󰄽
    Wed12 Aug

London to Portsmouth Harbour train timetable

Travelling from London to Portsmouth Harbour, the fastest train takes 1h 32m with an average travel time of 2h 9m. With 81 daily trains, the first departs at 07:00 and the last at 22:27. 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.

DepartsArrivesOperator

18:30

London Waterloo
1h 39m, Direct

20:09

Portsmouth Harbour
South Western Railway
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18:35

London Victoria
2h 9m, Direct

20:44

Portsmouth Harbour
Southern
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18:45

London Waterloo
1h 51m, 1 change

20:36

Portsmouth Harbour
South Western Railway
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18:45

London Waterloo
2h 5m, Direct

20:50

Portsmouth Harbour
South Western Railway
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18:46

London Victoria
2h 30m, 1 change

21:16

Portsmouth Harbour
Southern
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London to Portsmouth Harbour train tickets and times

Plan your journey from London to Portsmouth Harbour 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.

Price
From €9.79
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
64 miles (104km)
Journey time
1h 32m
First train
07:00
Last train
22:27
Frequency
81

South Western Railway vs Southern: Which should you choose?

By Daniel Clark | Updated June 9, 2026
Taking the train to Portsmouth Harbour? You’ll have two operator options. The main difference is that South Western Railway departs from London Waterloo, while Southern sets off from London Victoria.

Train operators

Avg. duration

Departure station

Best for

Feature services

South Western Railway

1h 40m

London Waterloo

Frequent Departures, Fastest Direct Route

Comfortable seats, Quiet Zone

Southern

2h 5m

London Victoria

First Class Experience

Complimentary newspaper in First Class

  • South Western Railway takes passengers from the capital to Portsmouth Harbour in the shortest time. With an average of two trains per hour travelling from London Waterloo to the south coast, this is a reliable and speedy choice.
  • Southern trains to Portsmouth take longer, though if you’re coming from nearer to London Victoria, this could be the best route for you. Upgrade to First Class for extra perks and a more comfortable journey.

Train travel from London to Portsmouth Harbour

The south coast holds so many great adventures, from uncovering maritime history to walking along miles of coastal beauty. To experience it all, our local station secrets help you plan every stage of your trip.

London Waterloo & London Victoria: Getting to the Platform

For the quickest trip to Portsmouth, start at London Waterloo. This central station is accessible via the Waterloo & City line of the London Underground, or on red London buses from around the capital.
  • Memorial entrance: The main entrance to London Waterloo is from the northern side. As you enter the station, you’ll pass through Victory Arch, which commemorates rail staff who died in the First World War.
  • Well and Boot: Coffee drinkers will face a difficult choice: where to buy their brew? Inside the station, pick between GRIND, Benugo, Caffe Ritazza, and many more. A good choice for a luxury barista coffee is the Well and Boot, a new cafe with stylish interior design, which is open from 7 am until 11 pm.
  • Check the board: London Waterloo is a large station with 20 platforms. Trains to Portsmouth depart from various platforms, so be sure to arrive in plenty of time, and check the departures board to find out where you need to be.

Alternatively, for direct Southern services to Portsmouth, set off from London Victoria.

  • On the Tube: Located immediately next to the station entrance, London Victoria Underground Station is convenient for access via the Victoria, Circle and District Lines.
  • Station facilities: At London Victoria, toilets can be found on the central concourse and adjacent to platform 2. If you want to grab a coffee before your train, head to Costa Coffee or Wetherspoons inside the station, or stop at Hermanos Colombian Coffee Roasters, less than a minute’s walk from the station.

Onboard trains from London to Portsmouth Harbour

Your train ride to Portsmouth Harbour will feature natural beauty, with lakes, nature reserves, and parks.

  • Key Landmarks: Leave behind the capital and chart an efficient route down south with South Western Railway. You’ll pass through Whitmoor Common, then follow the River Wey. Look out for Chalkdock Lake and Farlington Marshes Nature Reserve, just beyond Havant. Victoria Park will come into view as you enter Portsmouth.
  • The View Alert: Sit on the Left-Hand Side of the carriage (facing South) for the best lake views around Havant.

Arriving at Portsmouth Harbour

Portsmouth Harbour is an ideal entry point to Portsmouth’s naval history, as it is located next to Portsmouth Historic Dockyard and HMS Warrior. Here’s how to get out of the station and into your next adventure.

  • Facilities and way out: Portsmouth Harbour Station has toilets on platform 1, and a Pumpkin Cafe serving hot drinks and snacks. Exit on the north side towards the docks. As a five-station platform (with only four active platforms), it is easy to find your way out.
  • Monuments and maritime history: Whether you’re planning to shop in the Gunwharf Quays shopping centre or embrace naval history at the Historic Dockyard, Portsmouth Harbour has great access to nearby attractions. Explore waterfront landmarks like Vernon Monument and Spinnaker Tower within an easy five-minute walk.
  • Buses and beyond: Portsmouth Harbour is opposite a bus interchange for efficient connections around Hampshire. Or head to the pier for ferry services to Gosport and the Isle of Wight.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

London to Portsmouth Harbour train travel guide

The train journey from London to Portsmouth Harbour combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from London, you can get to Portsmouth Harbour in just 1h 32m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from London to Portsmouth Harbour?

The average ticket fare from London to Portsmouth Harbour is about €9.79, 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.

What is the best way to travel from London to Portsmouth Harbour by train?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from London to Portsmouth Harbour.

What is the fastest train from London to Portsmouth Harbour?

The fastest train journey time from London to Portsmouth Harbour is 1h 32m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.

Are there direct trains from London to Portsmouth Harbour?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from London to Portsmouth Harbour. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from London to Portsmouth Harbour?

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?

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

Check timetables and during the journey

Are London to Portsmouth Harbour trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

London to Portsmouth Harbour 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 Portsmouth Harbour trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the London to Portsmouth Harbour 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?

Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.

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

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.

Can UK train 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 Train Tickets and Off-Peak train 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.

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 Portsmouth Harbour route?

The train from London to Portsmouth Harbour 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

  • Luggage

    Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • Pets

    Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • 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 Portsmouth Harbour train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

* 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.