Ideal for leisure travellers and families heading to southern holiday destinations as well as students and commuters
No booking fees on the app
Best Price Promise
Delay Repay
24/7 customer support
Southampton Central to Dorking train times and prices
Plan your journey from Southampton Central to Dorking 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 €28.35
Departure station
Arrival station
Journey time
1h 49m
Distance
53 miles (85km)
First/last train
04:49 / 11:59
Frequency
22
Train operators
* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.
7-day train ticket price trend
Travelling from Southampton Central to Dorking by train? Find fares from as low as €28.35. 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
€28.35
On Sat 7
Live timetable and departures
The journey from Southampton Central to Dorking on the fastest train in 1h 49m, usually 2h 16m. Each day, 22 trains leave from Southampton Central, starting at 04:49 and ending at 11:59. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
04:11 Southampton Central | 2h 12m, 2 change | 06:23 Dorking West | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
04:28 Southampton Central | 3h 25m, 2 change | 07:53 Dorking Deepdene | Southern | Find tickets |
05:24 Southampton Central | 2h 4m, 1 change | 07:28 Dorking Deepdene | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
05:44 Southampton Central | 2h 14m, 1 change | 07:58 Dorking Deepdene | South Western Railway | Find tickets |
06:20 Southampton Central | 2h 19m, 2 change | 08:39 Dorking | Southern | Find tickets |
View More Trains
Compare train operators from Southampton Central to Dorking
- Great Western Railway
- South Western Railway
- Southern
Great Western Railway (GWR) serves the West of England and South Wales from its central hub at London Paddington. In addition to intercity, commuter and regional services, it also offers one of the UK’s two sleeper services, the Night Riviera. The Pullman Dining car brings a must-try culinary experience to GWR’s First Class experience for a truly unique train ride.
Standard
Firm, thinly cushioned seating
Guaranteed seat reservations on Advance tickets or longer routes
Free onboard WiFi on most trains
Air conditioning available, less reliable on local lines
Luggage
Pet
Food & Drink
Bike
Seat Facilities
First Class
Ideal for luxury leisure travellers, rail enthusiasts, foodies
Wider, reclining seats with adjustable armrests
More legroom with solo, two- and four-table seats
Guaranteed seat reservations on Advance tickets or longer routes
Air conditioning available - less reliable on local lines
Option to upgrade to Pullman Dining experience
Luggage
Lounge Access
Food & Drink
Seat Types
Pet
Onboard facilities
Bike
Seat Facilities
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"Commuter times and weekend trains can be quite overcrowded on GWR trains (especially on trains to/from London Paddington), mainly due to the fact they tend to opt for 5-carriage trains instead of 9. I’d recommend booking a seat if travelling at these times to save you battling for one. "
"The Pullman Dining experience really is something everyone should try at least once. You can opt for 2 or 3 course meals prepared by chefs Monday–Friday with produce sourced from regions across GWR’s network. First Class passengers can book 2 weeks in advance (not included in the ticket), and Standard passengers can enquire with staff about availability on the day."
Essential onboard policies
-
Luggage
- Most UK train operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage free of charge.
- This is commonly considered three items per passenger, typically 2 larger bags and 1 smaller bag. Larger items cover suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
- Bags go in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated floor-level luggage stacks.
- Occasionally, some providers have stricter policies, such as Lumo, which enforces a limit of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small under-seat bag per person.
-
Bicycle
- Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed.
- Bike reservations are required on some services and are usually free.
- 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 usually travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger.
- Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
-
Pets
- Each provider generally allows up to two animals per passenger free of charge, but individual operators can have additional restrictions.
- 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
- Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange free assistance with their train operator.
- This includes help at the station, boarding and leaving the train, and making connections. Assistance can also include ramps for wheelchair users and help finding accessible facilities or the correct platform.
- Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available on many trains, although facilities vary by service.
- To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
Departing from Southampton Central
Address:
Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL
Public Transport Links:
Bus: Local bus services stop on Blechynden Terrace on the northern side of the station and on Western Esplanade on the southern side, with frequent connections across Southampton and the wider region.
Taxi: Licensed taxi ranks are located on both sides at the northern entrance on Blechynden Terrace and the southern entrance on Western Esplanade. Taxis to the cruise terminals typically take 5-10 minutes and cost around £10, depending on which terminal you're heading to.
Car: Paid parking is available on both sides of the station with a long-stay option on Blechynden Terrace. Pre-booking is recommended for cruise passengers.
Platforms:
Four platforms, each split into A and B sections to accommodate two services simultaneously. Managed by South Western Railway with step-free access throughout.
TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience
"The National Express coach station is just a short walk from the station – useful to know if you're connecting between rail and coach services, or need onward transport to London or further afield. WestQuay shopping centre is directly adjacent to the southern entrance. With a wide range of restaurants, coffee shops and retail all under one roof, it's the best and most convenient option if you’re looking to grab a bite to eat or a drink before or after your train.
If you have a little more time, the SeaCity Museum is a 10-minute walk from the station and tells the story of Southampton's extraordinary maritime history, including a remarkable permanent exhibition on the Titanic, which departed on its fatal voyage from here."
FAQs about Southampton Central Station
Is Southampton Parkway the same as Southampton Central?
No, they are two separate stations. Southampton Central is the main city centre station on Blechynden Terrace, serving intercity services to London, Manchester and Cardiff. Southampton Airport Parkway is approximately 7 minutes away by train and serves Southampton Airport with a direct link to the terminal.
Is there a free bus from Southampton Central to the cruise terminal?
No, there is no free bus or shuttle service between Southampton Central and the cruise terminals. The most practical option is a taxi, available at ranks on both the northern and southern entrances. The journey typically takes 5-10 minutes and costs around £10, depending on which terminal you're heading to.
How far is Southampton train station from the town?
Southampton Central is in the heart of the city – WestQuay shopping centre is right beside the station, and the historic high street, Bargate and city centre are all within a 10-15 minute walk. The SeaCity Museum and Mayflower Theatre are both around 10 minutes away on foot.
How do I get from Southampton Central to the Red Funnel ferry?
Red Funnel ferries to the Isle of Wight depart from Town Quay, approximately a 15-minute walk from Southampton Central, or a short taxi ride. A bus link to Town Quay also operates from outside the station.
Delay Repay & Refund Policies from Southampton Central to Dorking
Apply for Great Western Railway Delay Repay
If your Great Western Railway train is delayed, you can claim compensation depending on the length of your delay:
15–29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket, 12.5% of a return ticket or 25% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
30–59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 25% of a return ticket or 50% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
60–119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket or 100% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
Over 120 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 100% of a return ticket or 200% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey. (Note: Two separate Advance Single tickets do not count as a return; you can only claim for the specific delayed ticket).
Apply for South Western Railway Delay Repay
If your SWR train is delayed, you can claim compensation depending on the length of your delay:
15-29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket, 12.5% of a return ticket or 12.5% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
30-59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket, 25% of a return ticket or 25% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
60-119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 50% of a return ticket or 50% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey.
Over 120 minutes: 100% of a single ticket, 100% of a return ticket or 100% of the % cost of a Season ticket journey. (Note: Two separate Advance Single tickets do not count as a return; you can only claim for the specific delayed ticket).
Apply for Southern Delay Repay
Southern operates Delay Repay 15, meaning eligible passengers can claim compensation when they arrive at their destination at least 15 minutes later than scheduled.
15 to 29 minutes: 25% of a single ticket price or 25% of the affected portion of a return ticket price
30 to 59 minutes: 50% of a single ticket price or 50% of the affected portion of a return ticket price
60 to 119 minutes: 100% of a single ticket price or 50% of a return ticket price
120 minutes or more: 100% of a single ticket price or 100% of a return ticket price
FAQ
-
How much is a train from Southampton Central to Dorking?
Tickets from Southampton Central to Dorking typically cost €46.74, but can be as cheap as €28.35 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.
-
How long is the train from Southampton Central to Dorking?
The journey should take, on average, 2h 16m, though it can be as quick as 1h 49m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.
-
Is there a direct train from Southampton Central to Dorking?
There is no direct service between Southampton Central and Dorking. Instead, when browsing routes, you will see our recommendations for changeover stations that are the most convenient and time-efficient.
-
How far in advance can I book my train from Southampton Central to Dorking?
You can typically book tickets from Southampton Central to Dorking up to 12 weeks before departure.
-
Do Southampton Central to Dorking trains offer Wi-Fi?
Yes, most trains on the route from Southampton Central to Dorking are equipped with Wi-Fi, as well as power sockets at your seat. However, please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train compan.
-
How far is Southampton Central from Dorking?
The distance between Southampton Central and Dorking is approximately 53 miles (85km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.
-
How frequent are trains from Southampton Central to Dorking?
There is 22 train running from Southampton Central to Dorking per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.
-
How can I buy the cheapest tickets from Southampton Central to Dorking?
To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!
-
How do I check if my train is delayed or cancelled?
Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.
-
Can my 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 and Off-Peak 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.
More train routes
* 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.
New user welcome pack