No booking fees on the app

Best Price Promise

Delay Repay

24/7 customer support

London Waterloo to Axminster train ticket prices

Travelling from London Waterloo to Axminster by train? Find fares from as low as €36.15. 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

€36.15󰄽

On Sun 12 Jul

Sun12 Jul
€36.15󰄽
Mon13 Jul
€36.15󰄽
Tue14 Jul
€36.15󰄽
Wed15 Jul
€36.15󰄽
Thu16 Jul
€36.15󰄽
Fri17 Jul
€36.15󰄽
Sat18 Jul

London Waterloo to Axminster train timetable

Journey from London Waterloo to Axminster on the fastest train in 2h 42m, usually 2h 47m. Every day, 14 trains leave from London Waterloo, starting at 01:05 and ending at 21:17. 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.

Departs		Arrives	Operator
08:15 London Waterloo	2h 47m, Direct	11:02 Axminster	South Western Railway	Find tickets
09:15 London Waterloo	2h 47m, Direct	12:02 Axminster	South Western Railway	Find tickets
10:15 London Waterloo	2h 47m, Direct	13:02 Axminster	South Western Railway	Find tickets
11:15 London Waterloo	2h 47m, Direct	14:02 Axminster	South Western Railway	Find tickets
12:15 London Waterloo	2h 47m, Direct	15:02 Axminster	South Western Railway	Find tickets

View More Trains

London Waterloo to Axminster train tickets and times

Plan your journey from London Waterloo to Axminster 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 €36.15

Departure station

London Waterloo

Arrival station

Axminster

Distance

135 miles (217km)

Journey time

2h 42m

First train

01:05

Last train

21:17

Frequency

Train operators

South Western Railway

South Western Railway: London Waterloo to Axminster trains

By Brenda Jude | Updated May 20, 2026

South Western Railway operates the direct train service from London Waterloo to Axminster, covering approximately 135 miles. The journey takes 3 hours and 4 minutes, and 19 trains run daily, starting at 08:20 and ending at 23:40.

This route offers scenic countryside views of Surrey, Wiltshire, and Dorset, before reaching the picturesque town of Axminster in East Devon. Along the way, you'll pass through historic market towns and the edge of the Blackdown Hills Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, making it a pleasant journey.

South Western Railway is one of the UK's major train operators, primarily serving London, the South West of England, and parts of the South Coast. It operates long-distance routes to destinations such as Exeter, Weymouth, and Portsmouth and provides local and commuter services throughout the South West Main Line corridor.

Departing from London Waterloo

London Waterloo is located in the Lambeth area of central London. It has excellent transport connections, including London Underground services and numerous bus routes, such as the 139, 59, 172, 176, and more. The station is easily accessible from all parts of London, whether by bus, tube, or on foot.

Waterloo is a key departure point for trains across the South West of England, including Portsmouth, Southampton, Exeter, and Weymouth services. It's also the starting point for commuter services to Surrey, Hampshire, and Berkshire, making it one of the UK's busiest railway terminals.

The main operator at the station is South Western Railway, which offers most of the long-distance and regional services. Other operators, such as CrossCountry, Great Western Railway, and Southern, may use parts of the South West Main Line but have different primary termini.

Main stops

Key stops on the London Waterloo to Axminster route include Clapham Junction, Woking, Basingstoke, Salisbury, Tisbury, Gillingham, Templecombe, Sherborne, Yeovil Junction, and Crewkerne.

Arriving at Axminster

Axminster station is located in East Devon, just a short walk from the town centre. Set on the East Devon Line, it is a convenient entry point to local towns and rural attractions. The station has served the area since 1860 and retains much of its historical charm, including its early railway infrastructure remnants.

South Western Railway runs regular services from Axminster to key destinations like Exeter Central, Exeter St Davids, and Yeovil Junction. The station connects nearby towns including Honiton, Feniton, Whimple, and Pinhoe, making it a vital regional transport hub. A journey to Exeter takes around 38 minutes, while Yeovil Junction is just 22 minutes away.

The town of Axminster is famous for its historic carpet industry and is home to the Axminster Heritage Centre. Visitors can also explore nearby attractions like Beer, the Jurassic Coast, and the Donkey Sanctuary in Sidmouth, making Axminster a charming base for exploring East Devon and beyond.

South Western Railway train classes

South Western Railway offers two main classes on its trains: Standard and First.

Standard Class includes comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, tables, and power sockets for charging devices. Wheelchair spaces are available only in this class. It's ideal for budget-conscious travellers who still want comfort and convenience.
First Class provides a more spacious experience, with larger seats, wider tables, and at-seat wireless charging. It's an excellent option for business travellers or those wanting extra comfort on longer journeys.

Both classes offer a clean, comfortable ride, and on longer routes like London to Axminster, First Class can be a worthwhile upgrade.

South Western Railway train travel advice

When travelling with South Western Railway, there are a few tips to help make your journey smoother.

Luggage: Passengers are allowed to bring bags and luggage onboard. There are overhead racks and dedicated luggage spaces for larger items.
Bicycles: Bicycles are welcome on most trains, but space is limited and allocated on a first-come, first-served basis, so plan during peak times.
Children: Children under 5 travel free, and those aged 5 to 15 receive 50% off. The Family & Friends Railcard also offers significant savings, and booking in advance helps secure family-friendly seating.
Pets: Small pets, including dogs and cats, are welcome free of charge. Dogs must be on leads, and other animals should be in carriers. Passengers can bring up to two pets each.
Passenger Assist: SWR offers support for those needing assistance with travel, including help with boarding, navigating stations, and light luggage handling. Ramps and guidance for visually impaired passengers are also available upon request.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

London Waterloo to Axminster train travel guide

Travelling by train from London Waterloo to Axminster is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from London Waterloo, you can reach Axminster in just 2h 42m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from London Waterloo to Axminster?

Ticket prices from London Waterloo to Axminster average around €36.15, 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 Waterloo to Axminster 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 Waterloo to Axminster.

What is the fastest train from London Waterloo to Axminster?

The fastest train journey time from London Waterloo to Axminster is 2h 42m . 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 Waterloo to Axminster?

No, there are no direct trains from London Waterloo to Axminster. 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 Waterloo to Axminster?

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?

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 Waterloo to Axminster trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

While London Waterloo to Axminster 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 Waterloo to Axminster 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?

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 Waterloo to Axminster trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from London Waterloo to Axminster 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

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 Waterloo to Axminster route?

The route from London Waterloo to Axminster is operated by South Western Railway. 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

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
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 Waterloo to Axminster train tickets

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

󰄽

Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

For step-by-step guidance on amending your journey or applying for a refund, please access our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

More train routes

Trains from London Waterloo	Trains from Axminster
London Waterloo to Basingstoke	Axminster to London Waterloo
London Waterloo to Southampton	Axminster to Salisbury
London Waterloo to Southampton Central	Axminster to Waterloo
London Waterloo to Portsmouth	Axminster to Exeter Central
London Waterloo to Exeter	Axminster to Plymouth

* 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.

London Waterloo to Axminster Trains From €36.15*

Maximise train ticket savings with split tickets & Railcards