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London to Southend Central train ticket prices

Travelling from London to Southend Central by train? Find fares from as low as €7.30. 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

€7.30󰄽

On Mon 04 May

  • €9.74󰄽
    Sat02 May
  • €10.96󰄽
    Sun03 May
  • Mon04 May

London to Southend Central train timetable

Journey from London to Southend Central on the fastest train in 54m, usually 1h 11m. Every day, 145 trains leave from London, starting at 00:04 and ending at 23:59. 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.

DepartsArrivesOperator

08:45

London Liverpool Street
56m, Direct

09:41

Southend Central
c2c
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08:53

London Fenchurch Street
1h 14m, Direct

10:07

Southend Central
c2c
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09:00

London Fenchurch Street
54m, Direct

09:54

Southend Central
c2c
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09:13

London Liverpool Street
1h 15m, Direct

10:28

Southend Central
Greater Anglia
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09:15

London Liverpool Street
56m, Direct

10:11

Southend Central
c2c
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London to Southend Central train tickets and times

Plan your journey from London to Southend Central 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 €7.30
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
36 miles (59km)
Journey time
54m
First train
00:04
Last train
23:59
Frequency
145
Train operators

London to Southend Central with c2c: Onboard Experience

For journeys from the capital to the Essex coast, travel direct from London Fenchurch Street to Southend Central. Your route east will be operated by c2c.

What’s the coverage of c2c?

The UK train operator c2c runs services between London Fenchurch Street and Shoeburyness, Essex. With a reputation as one of the UK’s most punctual operators, this route stops at 26 stations in East London and South Essex.

How is the travel experience with c2c?

Travel in comfort from London to Southend Central, with air-conditioned trains, and essential amenities such as toilets, priority seating, and onboard Wi-Fi.

What features does c2c offer?

Head to the Quiet Zone if you’re looking to travel in peace and quiet. One in every four c2c carriages are marked as quiet zone areas, where passengers are asked to put their devices on silent, avoid phone calls, and keep conversations to a minimum.

Can animals travel with c2c?

Yes! Each passenger may take up to two dogs or other small domestic animals on the train from London to Southend at no extra cost.

Do I need a ticket to board a c2c train?

You must buy a valid ticket before you travel with c2c. Charges for travelling without a valid ticket are £100 plus the price of the full single fare. Anyone who does not have a valid fare for their journey from London to Southend Central may also be reported for prosecution.

Train travel from London to Southend Central

Southend-on-Sea is a vibrant coastal city in Essex, England, known for its long pier, beautiful beaches, and rich history as a seaside resort.

London Fenchurch Street: Getting to the Platform

Described by poet John Betjeman as a “delightful hidden old terminus”, London Fenchurch Street is a central railway station in the southeastern corner of the City of London, just north of the Thames.

  • Tower Hill: Reach London Fenchurch Street using the London Underground, arriving at Tower Hill station only a few hundred metres away for the fastest access.
  • Big chains: To enter the station, use entrances on either Fenchurch Place, or Cooper's Row, depending on whether you are approaching from north or south. Inside Fenchurch Street, find Burger King and Costa Coffee; just outside, you can stop for a drink at traditional pub The Crutched Friar.
  • Two or four: Check information boards to find the right platform for your journey. Typically, services to Southend Central will depart from platforms 2 or 4.

Onboard trains from London to Southend-on-Sea

Your journey east from London will take you past 

  • Key Landmarks: Look out for Langdon Nature Discovery Park, a stunning nature reserve in Basildon. Later in the journey, you’ll pass Hadleigh Castle, a 13th-century bastion, refortified by Edward III in the Hundred Years War.
  • The View Alert: Choose a seat on the Right-Hand Side of the carriage (facing East) for the best coastal views on the approach into Southend.

Arriving at Southend Central

Southend Central is perfect for quick beach access, onward buses, and plenty of places to eat within a few minutes’ walk.

  • Getting out: This four-platform station is easy to exit onto Clifftown Street. If you’re in need of refreshments, you’ll find Cosy Coffee and Sandwich Bar, Sababa falafel restaurant, and various other eateries right ahead.
  • Open-top bus: Southend has buses operated by Arriva, First, and Stephensons, offering a comprehensive network of routes around Essex and into surrounding villages. In summer, don’t miss the seasonal open top bus service, which runs along the city's stunning seafront.
  • Race to the sea!: From Southend Central, walk to the Western Esplanade in just a few minutes. If you want to explore the city’s seaside attractions, Adventure Island, and Southend Pier Museum are within easy reach by foot too. 

London to Southend Central train travel guide

The train journey from London to Southend Central combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from London, you can get to Southend Central in just 54m, 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 Southend Central?

The average fare from London to Southend Central is approximately €7.30, 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.

What is the best way to travel from London to Southend Central by train?

Utilise the TrainPal app or website to its fullest potential. Our Train Journey Planner is a top-notch online tool for planning your trips. Just enter your departure and arrival cities or stations. Then, review timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and check for food supplies or other amenities. Find the best train route from London to Southend Central.

What is the fastest train from London to Southend Central?

The fastest train journey time from London to Southend Central is 54m. 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 Southend Central?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from London to Southend Central. 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 Southend Central?

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

Check timetables and during the journey

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

While London to Southend Central 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 Southend Central 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 Southend Central trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from London to Southend Central 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?

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?

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

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, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.

Which train companies operate the London to Southend Central route?

The London to Southend Central route is operated by c2c. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.

  • Bicycle

    Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. 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.

  • 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

    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 Southend Central train tickets

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

Step-by-step instructions for changing your journey or requesting a refund are available on our ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

* 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.