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London Waterloo to Axminster train ticket prices

Travelling from London Waterloo to Axminster by train? Find fares from as low as €22.37. 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

€22.37󰄽

On Sun 16 Aug

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    Mon17 Aug
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    Tue18 Aug
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    Wed19 Aug
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    Fri21 Aug
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    Sat22 Aug

London Waterloo to Axminster train timetable

Travelling from London Waterloo to Axminster, the fastest train takes 2h 47m with an average travel time of 2h 58m. With 7 daily trains, the first departs at 01:05 and the last at 15:20. 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.

DepartsArrivesOperator

09:15

London Waterloo
2h 58m, Direct

12:13

Axminster
South Western Railway
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11:15

London Waterloo
2h 58m, Direct

14:13

Axminster
South Western Railway
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13:15

London Waterloo
2h 58m, Direct

16:13

Axminster
South Western Railway
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15:20

London Waterloo
2h 53m, Direct

18:13

Axminster
South Western Railway
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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 €22.37
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
135 miles (217km)
Journey time
2h 47m
First train
01:05
Last train
15:20
Frequency
7
Train operators

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 47m, 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 Waterloo to Axminster?

Ticket prices from London Waterloo to Axminster average around €22.37, 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.

How do I find the best train route from London Waterloo to Axminster?

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 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 47m . 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, unfortunately, you need to transfer from London Waterloo to Axminster. 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 Waterloo to Axminster?

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

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find London Waterloo to Axminster train timetables?

London Waterloo to Axminster 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?

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 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?

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?

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, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers.

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?

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 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

    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

    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

    Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.

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.

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?

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.

* 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.