Purley to London Bridge Trains From €11.43*

On average, it takes around twenty-five minutes to get from Purley or Purley Oaks stations to London Bridge with either Southern or Thameslink.

As you travel towards central London, you’ll pass towns like Croydon and Thornton Heath before heading further into London and arriving at London Bridge on the south bank of the River Thames.

Southern operates rail services throughout London, Sussex, and Surrey. It focuses mainly on commuter routes linking South London, Hampshire, Kent, and Surrey to London Bridge and London Victoria stations. Additionally, Southern provides train services to coastal cities like Southampton, Portsmouth, and Eastbourne.

Meanwhile, Thameslink offers an essential north-south rail connection across London, connecting key locations such as Luton and Cambridge to the UK capital. The service travels through central London, stopping at some of the city’s main stations, including London Bridge and City Thameslink.

Departing from Purley

Purley is an area within the London Borough of Croydon. It has two train stations: Thameslink departs from Purley Station, and Southern departs from Purley Oaks Station. Both stations are accessible by taxi and are near local bus services.

Purley Oaks can be found along Brantwood Road, while Purley Station is located on Station Approach, Whytecliffe Road. Whereas Purley Station is more central to the rest of the town, they are not far apart. Purley War Memorial Hospital is between the two.

You should check which one you are departing from before purchasing your ticket and double-check again before you travel.

Main stops

When traveling with Southern from Purley Oaks Station, your train will make stops at South Croydon, East Croydon, and Norwood Junction.

Similarly, if you're traveling with Thameslink from Purley Station, your train will also stop at South Croydon, East Croydon, and Norwood Junction.

These may change due to scheduling conflicts, train faults, engineering works, or poor weather. So, it’s advised that you check before you travel to make sure.

Arriving at London Bridge

London Bridge Station is located in Southwark, in south-east London, near Tate Modern. It opened in 1836 and is actually one of the oldest train stations in the world. However, that doesn’t mean it’s antiquated—far from it.

It’s a brilliant station to arrive at. Its London Underground station (aptly named London Bridge, too) serves the Jubilee and Northern lines, so it can quickly get you anywhere you need to be in the rest of the city.

Taxis are available from the taxi rank outside the station's main doors, along Bermondsey Street at the junction with Tooley Street, and even more from St Thomas Street. This station also has a bus station located directly outside the main upper-level entrance.

There’s lots to do nearby. For example, Tate Modern, Borough Market, and The Shard are all within walking distance from London Bridge Station.

Southern train classes

• Standard Class: Comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi. There are also tables and power sockets for your devices.
• First Class: Getting a Purley to London Bridge First Class ticket on Southern services is possible. Enjoy quieter carriages, comfortable seats, and wireless charging points.

Southern train travel advice

• Luggage: Maximum of three items of luggage. This goes up to two larger items and one smaller bag.
• Pets: Dogs, cats, and other small animals can travel for free. Dogs must be on a lead. Other animals must travel in carriers. Extra pets cost half the adult fare. There is a maximum of two pets per passenger.
• Bicycles: Bikes can be stored free of charge, but space is limited. There is no need to pre-book.
• Children: Under 5’s can travel for free. Children aged 5 to 15 can save 50% on their tickets. Booking in advance using TrainPal helps ensure families can sit together. The Family & Friends Railcard offers up to 1/3 off family ticket costs.
• Passenger Assist: Assisting with purchasing tickets and other necessary items for the journey, providing ramps or alternative transportation, and helping with luggage handling, boarding, and transfer services.