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Portsmouth to London train ticket prices

Travelling from Portsmouth to London by train? Find fares from as low as €12.17. 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

€12.17󰄽

On Mon 29 Jun

  • Mon29 Jun
  • €12.17󰄽
    Tue30 Jun
  • €12.17󰄽
    Wed01 Jul
  • €12.17󰄽
    Thu02 Jul
  • €12.17󰄽
    Fri03 Jul
  • €34.56󰄽
    Sat04 Jul
  • €19.35󰄽
    Sun05 Jul

Portsmouth to London train timetable

Travelling from Portsmouth to London, the fastest train takes 1h 31m with an average travel time of 2h 7m. With 102 daily trains, the first departs at 04:35 and the last at 23:49. 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

12:00

Portsmouth & Southsea
2h 5m, Direct

14:05

London Waterloo
South Western Railway
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12:08

Portsmouth & Southsea
2h 7m, Direct

14:15

London Victoria
Southern
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12:19

Portsmouth & Southsea
1h 32m, Direct

13:51

London Waterloo
South Western Railway
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12:33

Portsmouth & Southsea
2h 12m, Direct

14:45

London Victoria
Southern
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12:37

Portsmouth & Southsea
1h 46m, Direct

14:23

London Waterloo
South Western Railway
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Portsmouth to London train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Portsmouth to London 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 €12.17
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
63 miles (101km)
Journey time
1h 31m
First train
04:35
Last train
23:49
Frequency
102

South Western Railway vs Southern: Which one to choose?

By Brenda Jude | Updated June 17, 2026
The rail journey from Portsmouth to London covers approximately 63 miles, with journey times ranging from 1 hour 30 minutes to 2 hours 25 minutes, depending on the operator and service pattern. Both South Western Railway (SWR) and Southern run direct trains from Portsmouth, giving passengers a choice between London Waterloo and London Victoria.

The table below compares the two operators serving the Portsmouth-to-London route.

Train operator
Avg. duration
Departure station
Best for
Feature services
South Western Railway

1h 30m

Portsmouth Harbour, Portsmouth & Southsea, Fratton

Faster journeys, frequent departures and access to central London via Waterloo

Direct trains to London Waterloo, free Wi-Fi, power sockets on many services, First Class on selected trains

Southern

2h 10m

Portsmouth Harbour, Portsmouth & Southsea, Fratton

Travellers heading towards Victoria and group travel savings

Direct trains to London Victoria, free Wi-Fi on most trains, GroupSave discounts, connections via Gatwick Airport
Key comparison facts:
  • Fastest operator: South Western Railway saves up to 40 minutes compared with Southern services.
  • Arrival station: SWR serves London Waterloo, while Southern serves London Victoria.
  • Frequency: SWR operates more frequent direct services throughout the day.

Train travel from Portsmouth to London

Travelling from Portsmouth to London is one of southern England's most popular rail journeys, linking the historic naval city with the capital through Hampshire, Surrey and West Sussex.

Departure from Portsmouth

London-bound trains depart from three stations within Portsmouth: Portsmouth Harbour, Portsmouth & Southsea and Fratton. Each station serves a different part of the city, but all offer direct services to London throughout the day.

Portsmouth Harbour station

Portsmouth Harbour is the city's principal rail gateway and the starting point for most London services. It sits directly beside ferry terminals and transport interchanges, making it particularly convenient for visitors arriving from surrounding coastal areas.

Specific transport links
  • The Hard Interchange: Provides direct access to local bus services across Portsmouth and South Hampshire.
  • Gosport Ferry: Connects passengers arriving from Gosport with the station entrance in just a few minutes.
  • Wightlink Catamaran: Offers direct passenger ferry services to and from Ryde Pier Head on the Isle of Wight.
  • National Express coaches: Long-distance coach services stop immediately adjacent to the station.
Station layout
  • Platforms 1, 3, 4  and 5: Handle most terminating and departing services from the harbour.
Pre-departure essentials

Portsmouth Harbour has a cafe, a convenience store and waiting areas within the station complex. Travellers can easily pick up coffee, snacks or a meal deal before boarding, while nearby outlets at The Hard provide additional food options for longer journeys.

Portsmouth & Southsea station

Portsmouth & Southsea is the city's central railway station and sits within easy walking distance of the main shopping district. It is the most convenient departure point for passengers staying in the city centre.

Specific transport links
  • Commercial Road buses: Frequent services connect the station with Southsea, Cosham and other Portsmouth neighbourhoods.
  • City centre access: The station is only a short walk from the Cascades Shopping Centre.
  • Local taxi services: Taxi ranks are available close to the main station entrance.
Station layout
  • High-level platforms: Most through services to London use the elevated platforms.
  • Low-level platforms: Selected terminating and starting services use the lower section of the station.
Pre-departure essentials

Passengers will find a WHSmith inside the station for meal deals, newspapers and travel essentials. Coffee outlets and nearby city-centre cafes also provide plenty of options for grabbing breakfast or refreshments before departure.

Fratton station

Fratton is located east of Portsmouth city centre and is convenient for residents travelling from surrounding residential districts. Most London-bound trains stop here shortly after leaving Portsmouth Harbour.

Specific transport links
  • First Bus routes: Frequent local buses serve Fratton and neighbouring districts.
  • Fratton Park access: The station is the designated match-day stop and sits within a 15-minute walk of Portsmouth FC's home stadium.
  • Local taxi services: Taxi pick-up points are available outside the station.
Station layout
  • Island platforms: Most services use centrally located island platforms.
  • Lift access: Step-free routes are available throughout the station.
Pre-departure essentials

Fratton offers smaller retail facilities than Portsmouth Harbour or Portsmouth & Southsea, but passengers can still purchase drinks, snacks and travel essentials before boarding. Several cafes and convenience stores are also located within a short walk of the station.

Onboard trains from Portsmouth to London

The journey to London passes through a variety of landscapes, including coastal waterways, historic towns and stretches of countryside. Depending on the route and operator, passengers can enjoy views of castles, national parks and some of southern England's most attractive scenery.

The scenic side

  • Sit on the right-hand side of South Western Railway services after leaving Portsmouth for views of Portsmouth Harbour and Portchester Castle.

Key landmarks

  • Portchester Castle: A well-preserved Roman fort overlooking the harbour.
  • Guildford Cathedral: Visible on many South Western Railway services approaching Guildford.
  • Arundel Castle: One of the most recognisable landmarks on Southern's route to London.
  • South Downs National Park: A highlight of the Southern route through West Sussex.

Arriving in London

Depending on your chosen operator, your train will arrive at either London Waterloo or London Victoria.

Arriving at London Waterloo

London Waterloo is the arrival station for South Western Railway services. As Britain's second busiest railway station, it provides outstanding access to the South Bank, Westminster and central London.

The correct exit
  • For taxis: Use the main concourse exit to reach the primary black cab rank.
  • For the South Bank: Follow signs to the South Bank exit near York Road.
  • For Westminster: Exit towards Westminster Bridge for the shortest walking route.
  • For Waterloo Underground station: Follow internal signs from the concourse.
Onward travel
  • London Underground: Connect directly with the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City lines.
  • London buses: Multiple routes depart from stops immediately outside the station.
  • River services: Waterloo Pier is within walking distance of Thames boat services.
  • Cycle hire: Santander Cycles docking stations are available nearby.
Walkability

Waterloo is well-positioned for exploring central London on foot. The London Eye is less than 10 minutes away, while Westminster Abbey and Big Ben can all be reached within around 20 minutes.

Arriving at London Victoria

London Victoria is the arrival station for Southern services. Located in Westminster, it offers excellent access to Buckingham Palace, Victoria Coach Station and several Underground lines.

The correct exit
  • For taxis: Leave via Hudson's Place beside Platform 1.
  • For Buckingham Palace: Use the Terminus Place exit and follow Buckingham Palace Road.
  • For Victoria Underground station: Follow clearly marked signs within the station.
  • For Victoria Coach Station: Exit onto Buckingham Palace Road and walk south.
Onward travel
  • London Underground: Access the Victoria, Circle and District lines directly from the station.
  • London buses: Extensive bus services operate from Victoria Bus Station and surrounding streets.
  • National Express coaches: Victoria Coach Station is approximately seven minutes away on foot.
  • Airport connections: Rail services provide straightforward links towards Gatwick Airport and the South East.
Walkability

Victoria is an excellent arrival point for visitors heading to Westminster. Buckingham Palace, St James's Park and Green Park are all within a short walk, while many central London landmarks can be reached without needing public transport.

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

Portsmouth to London train travel guide

The train journey from Portsmouth to London combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Portsmouth, you can get to London in just 1h 31m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

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

The average fare from Portsmouth to London is approximately €12.17, 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.

What is the best way to travel from Portsmouth to London 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 Portsmouth to London.

What is the fastest train from Portsmouth to London?

The fastest train journey time from Portsmouth to London is 1h 31m. 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 Portsmouth to London?

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

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 Portsmouth to London train timetables?

Portsmouth to London 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 Portsmouth to London trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Portsmouth to London 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?

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. 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 Portsmouth to London route?

The route from Portsmouth to London is operated by Thameslink. 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

    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

    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

    For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.

How to buy cheap Portsmouth to London 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?

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.

* 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.