No booking fees on the app

No booking fees on the app

Best Price Promise

Best Price Promise

Delay Repay

Delay Repay

24/7 customer support

24/7 customer support

  1. Home
  2. Train Journey
  3. London to Southend Central

London to Southend Central train ticket prices

Travelling from London to Southend Central by train? Find fares from as low as €9.10. 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

€9.10󰄽

On Sun 07 Jun

  • €10.87󰄽
    Thu04 Jun
  • €10.87󰄽
    Fri05 Jun
  • €10.92󰄽
    Sat06 Jun
  • Sun07 Jun
  • €9.10󰄽
    Mon08 Jun
  • €9.71󰄽
    Tue09 Jun
  • €10.87󰄽
    Wed10 Jun

London to Southend Central train timetable

From London to Southend Central, take the fastest train in 51m, typically 57m. Daily, 149 trains depart from London, with the first at 00:15 and the last at 23:59. During Off-Peak times starting at 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter space with fewer people. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. We save you time, effort, and money.

DepartsArrivesOperator

16:44

London Fenchurch Street
57m, Direct

17:41

Southend Central
c2c
Find tickets

16:59

London Fenchurch Street
53m, Direct

17:52

Southend Central
c2c
Find tickets

17:04

London Fenchurch Street
58m, Direct

18:02

Southend Central
c2c
Find tickets

17:16

London Fenchurch Street
53m, Direct

18:09

Southend Central
c2c
Find tickets

17:19

London Fenchurch Street
57m, Direct

18:16

Southend Central
c2c
Find tickets
View More Trains

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 €9.10
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
36 miles (59km)
Journey time
51m
First train
00:15
Last train
23:59
Frequency
149

London to Southend Central with c2c: Onboard Experience

By Daniel Clark | Updated April 9, 2026

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 51m, 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?

Ticket prices from London to Southend Central average around €9.10, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.

What is the best way to travel from London to Southend Central 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 Southend Central.

What is the fastest train from London to Southend Central?

The fastest train journey time from London to Southend Central is 51m . 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, 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, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.

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

How do I find London to Southend Central train timetables?

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?

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?

Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the 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, in the UK, students and seniors can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value for frequent travellers

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?

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 Southend Central route?

The London to Southend Central route is operated by London Overground. 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

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

    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.

  • 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.

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.
󰄶
󰄽

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.