Poole to London Waterloo Trains From £6.50*

For a quick, stress-free journey from Poole to London Waterloo, take a direct South Western Railway train, and you can be in London in just over around 2 hours.

Sit back and relax on your Poole to London Waterloo train journey, taking in sweeping views of Dorset’s golden coastline and the tranquil beauty of the New Forest’s open heathland and ancient woodlands along the way.

South Western Railway connects Poole with London Waterloo and beyond, offering regional and commuter services throughout Dorset, Hampshire, Surrey and southwest London, with key stops at Bournemouth, Southampton and Portsmouth.

Departing from Poole

Located just a short walk from Poole town centre and overlooking Holes Bay, Poole station is a major stop on the South West Main Line. It’s easily accessible by foot, local bus or taxi, and sits just a mile from the ferry terminal with sailings to Jersey, Guernsey and Cherbourg or Saint-Malo in France.

Managed by South Western Railway, the station features a staffed ticket office, step-free access and self-service ticket machines, with regular services to London Waterloo, Bournemouth and Weymouth – also operated by South Western Railway.

Main stops

Aboard your scenic Poole to London Waterloo train, you’ll call at Parkstone (Dorset), Branksome, Bournemouth, Southampton Central, Southampton Airport Parkway and Winchester before arriving at London Waterloo.

Arriving at London Waterloo

Arriving at London Waterloo station, you’ll find yourself in the heart of the capital’s South Bank, and just a short walk away from some of the city’s top cultural landmarks, including the River Thames, the London Eye and the National Theatre.

Served by four Underground lines, the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines, London Waterloo allows for easy access all across London. The station is operated by Network Rail and is the main terminus for South Western Railway services arriving from all across southern England, including Portsmouth, Southampton and Exeter. 

Waterloo station also offers step-free access, waiting rooms and baby changing facilities, as well as plenty of shops and cafés, making it a comfortable and well-equipped arrival point into London.

South Western Railway train classes 

• Standard Class: Relax in a designated Quiet Zone on your Poole to London Waterloo train journey and make the most of free Wi-Fi available throughout your trip.
• First Class: Travel from Poole to London First Class and enjoy wider leather seats, generous legroom, and at-seat wireless charging. There are also some great-value weekend upgrade options available.

South Western Railway train travel advice

From luggage allowances and travelling with bikes, children or pets, to how to access assisted travel support, we’ve got everything you need to know ahead of your Poole to London Waterloo journey. With all the essentials covered, you can board with confidence for a smooth, stress-free trip.

• Luggage: Passengers are welcome to bring up to three items of luggage at no extra cost. Please store larger bags in designated racks or under your seat, keeping aisles, doorways, and seats clear.
• Bicycles: In general, standard bikes and e-bikes are allowed, though some routes may have restrictions during peak times and may require a reservation. Folding bikes are welcome on all services at any time. Please note that e-scooters are not permitted.
• Children: Kids under 5 travel free of charge, while children aged 5 to 15 are eligible to receive a 50% discount on standard fares. Teenagers aged 16 to 17 can save 50% with a 16–17 Saver railcard.
• Pets: Passengers may bring up to two small pets on board for free, provided they’re on a lead or secured in a suitable carrier. Pets must remain off the seats.
• Passenger Assist: You can reserve wheelchair spaces or book assistance with boarding, disembarking or carrying luggage when booking your ticket or via the app. Assistance is often available at staffed stations, but booking in advance through Passenger Assist ensures you receive the most comprehensive support for your journey.

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