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London to Southampton 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
£8.80
On Wed 28
Live timetable and departures
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
15:20 London Waterloo | 1h 16m, 1 change | 16:36 Southampton Airport Parkway | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
15:35 London Waterloo | 1h 6m, Direct | 16:41 Southampton Airport Parkway | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
15:37 London Waterloo | 1h 35m, 1 change | 17:12 Southampton Airport Parkway | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
15:39 London Blackfriars | 4h 21m, 3 change | 20:00 Southampton Central | Southern | Find tickets |
15:41 Vauxhall | 1h 31m, 1 change | 17:12 Southampton Airport Parkway | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
Compare train operators from London to Southampton
- Southern
- South Western Railway
- Thameslink
Southern is a major UK commuter operator serving London Victoria and London Bridge, with routes across South London, Surrey, Sussex and the South Coast. Its network provides frequent connections to Gatwick Airport, Brighton, Southampton and Portsmouth.
Modern Class 377 and Class 387 Electrostar trains prioritise capacity, air conditioning, Wi-Fi and power, although peak-time reliability can be affected by congestion and infrastructure disruption.
Standard
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Southern services can become crowded during the 07:00 to 09:00 and 16:00 to 19:00 commuter peaks, so travelling outside these periods can make longer journeys more comfortable. For Gatwick Airport, consider the front or rear sections of Class 377 and 387 trains for easier access to luggage space."
"If you have a Standard ticket, check the platform and onboard displays for First Class declassification before boarding, as these areas may occasionally be opened to Standard passengers. On longer journeys towards Brighton, Portsmouth or Southampton, checking the train formation before boarding can also help you position yourself near the luggage space you need."
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.
Arriving in Southampton
Top Things to Do:
Explore SeaCity Museum to uncover Southampton’s interesting maritime story and its connection to the Titanic.
Walk the medieval city walls for surviving towers, gateways and glimpses of Southampton’s historic past.
Visit Tudor House and Garden for more than 800 years of local history inside a beautifully preserved home.
Discover the Solent Sky Museum for historic aircraft linked to Southampton’s aviation heritage.
Relax at Mayflower Park for waterfront views across Southampton Water and passing cruise ships.
Popular Areas in Southampton:
Oxford Street, Ocean Village, Bedford Place, Bargate, Westquay.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Visiting Southampton: The city’s medieval past is much easier to miss than its maritime heritage, so look beyond the obvious waterfront attractions when exploring the city. One of the best hidden details is the stretch around the Bargate and old walls, where fragments of the medieval city remain tucked between modern streets and shopping areas. If you like aviation history, Solent Sky is another underrated stop too, especially for Southampton’s connection to the Spitfire."
Delay Repay & Refund Policies from London to Southampton
Apply for Southern Delay Repay
Southern operates Delay Repay 15, meaning eligible passengers can claim compensation when they arrive at their destination at least 15 minutes later than scheduled.
15 to 29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket price or 25% of the affected portion of a return ticket price
30 to 59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket price or 50% of the affected portion of a return ticket price
60 to 119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket price or 50% of a return ticket price
120 minutes or more: 100% of a single ticket price or 100% of a return ticket price
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 Thameslink Delay Repay
If your Thameslink train is delayed, you can claim compensation depending on the length of your delay:
15-29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket, 25% of the affected portion of a return ticket or 25% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
30-59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 50% of the affected portion 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.
120+ minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 100% of a return ticket or 100% of the % cost of a Season ticket return journey (a full day’s travel). (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 London to Southampton?
Tickets from London to Southampton typically cost £41.70, but can be as cheap as £8.80 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 London to Southampton?
The journey should take, on average, 4h 14m, though it can be as quick as 1h 5m 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 London to Southampton?
Yes, there is a direct train between London and Southampton. 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 London to Southampton?
You can typically book tickets from London to Southampton up to 12 weeks before departure.
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Do London to Southampton trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from London to Southampton 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 London from Southampton?
The distance between London and Southampton is approximately 70 miles (113km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
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How frequent are trains from London to Southampton?
There is 190 train running from London to Southampton per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
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How can I buy the cheapest tickets from London to Southampton?
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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