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London to Southend Central train ticket prices
£8.00
On Sat 09 May
London to Southend Central train timetable
Travelling from London to Southend Central, the fastest train takes 55m with an average travel time of 1h 14m. With 88 daily trains, the first departs at 00:05 and the last at 23:41. 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 | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
09:48 London Fenchurch Street | 56m, Direct | 10:44 Southend Central | c2c | Find tickets |
09:53 London Fenchurch Street | 1h 14m, Direct | 11:07 Southend Central | c2c | Find tickets |
10:18 London Fenchurch Street | 56m, Direct | 11:14 Southend Central | c2c | Find tickets |
10:23 London Fenchurch Street | 1h 14m, Direct | 11:37 Southend Central | c2c | Find tickets |
10:23 London Liverpool Street | 1h 14m, Direct | 11:37 Southend Central | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
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.
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?
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 55m, 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 Southend Central?
The average fare from London to Southend Central is approximately £8.00, 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?
What is the fastest train from London to Southend Central?
The fastest train journey time from London to Southend Central is 55m . 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 Southend Central?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from London to Southend Central. 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 Southend Central?
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
Are London to Southend Central trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
London to Southend Central 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?
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 Southend Central trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the London to Southend Central 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
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 Southend Central route?
The route from London to Southend Central is operated by c2c. 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
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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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
Children under 5 usually travel free. 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 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
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 Southend Central 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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