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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 £6.00. 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

£6.00󰄽

On Mon 13 Apr

  • £9.00󰄽
    Sun12 Apr
  • Mon13 Apr
  • £9.00󰄽
    Wed15 Apr
  • £10.80󰄽
    Sat18 Apr

London to Southend Central train timetable

Journey from London to Southend Central on the fastest train in 55m, usually 1h 7m. Every day, 91 trains leave from London, starting at 00:12 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

06:57

London Liverpool Street
1h 10m, Direct

08:07

Southend Central
c2c
Find tickets

07:28

London Liverpool Street
1h 9m, Direct

08:37

Southend Central
c2c
Find tickets

07:58

London Liverpool Street
1h 9m, Direct

09:07

Southend Central
c2c
Find tickets

08:13

London Liverpool Street
1h 9m, Direct

09:22

Southend Central
c2c
Find tickets

08:28

London Liverpool Street
1h 9m, Direct

09:37

Southend Central
c2c
Find tickets
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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 £6.00
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
36 miles (59km)
Journey time
55m
First train
00:12
Last train
23:59
Frequency
91
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

Travelling by train from London to Southend Central is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from London, you can reach Southend Central in just 55m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

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 £6.00, 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.

How do I find the best train route from London to Southend Central?

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 Southend Central.

What is the fastest train from London to Southend Central?

The fastest train journey time from London to Southend Central is 55m. 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, there are no direct trains from London to Southend Central. 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 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

How do I find London to Southend Central train timetables?

London to Southend Central trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.

How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing 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

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?

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 train from London to Southend Central is operated by c2c. 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

    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.

  • 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

    Children under 5 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.

  • Pets

    You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed 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?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

Your train was disrupted?

If your journey was affected by a delay, cancellation, or strike, please visit our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page. There, you will find live service information and instructions on how to claim Delay Repay compensation.

* 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.