Stratford International to Margate Trains From £8.15*

Planning a seaside escape from East London? Hop on a direct Southeastern train from Stratford International and arrive in Margate in just around 1 hour and 20 minutes. It’s a fast, hassle-free way to kick off your coastal day trip or mini break.

Enjoy Kent’s picturesque coastline on this scenic journey from the Thames Estuary past the sandy shores of the Isle of Thanet to the seaside town of Margate.

Southeastern operates rail services between London and the South East, offering both high-speed trains from London St Pancras International and standard routes from Charing Cross and Victoria to key destinations including Canterbury, Dover, Maidstone, Ashford and Hastings.

Departing from Stratford International

Located in East Village, the former Olympic Village for the 2012 London Games, Stratford International is just a short walk from Stratford station and Westfield Stratford City. The station is well connected with easy access via the DLR, Jubilee, Central, Elizabeth and Mildmay Overground lines, as well as by bus and taxi from all across East London.

Positioned on the High Speed 1 route, Stratford International is served exclusively by Southeastern, with fast trains west to London St Pancras International and east to Faversham, Margate, Ramsgate, Canterbury West and Dover Priory.

Managed by High Speed 1, the station features modern facilities including step-free access, accessible toilets, ticket machines, and staffed counters, making it a convenient and accessible departure point for high-speed journeys to Kent and beyond.

Main stops

En route from Stratford to Margate, you’ll pass through Ebbsfleet International, Ashford International, Canterbury West, Thanet Parkway, Ramsgate and Broadstairs.

Arriving at Margate

Just a three-minute walk from the seafront, Margate station is one of the most convenient gateways to the Kent coast with easy access to local shops, cafés, and the cultural highlights of Margate.

Served by Southeastern, the station provides frequent high-speed links to London St Pancras, Victoria and Charing Cross, as well as regional services to Canterbury West, Ramsgate and Broadstairs.

Just beyond the station, you’ll find iconic coastal landmarks such as the historic Shell Grotto, the art-lined waterfront at Turner Contemporary, and the nostalgic thrills of Dreamland amusement park. Be sure to take a dip in the Walpole Bay Tidal Pool, one of the UK’s largest saltwater pools.

Southeastern train classes 

• Standard Class: Enjoy comfortable seating and free Wi-Fi aboard your Stratford International to Margate train as well as at-table power sockets to help keep your devices charged for the whole journey.
• First Class: There is no First Class service available on this line from Stratford International to Margate.

Southeastern train travel advice

Before you board your Stratford International to Margate train, take a look at this guide for everything you need to know before you travel, including travelling with bikes, children and pets, luggage allowances and assisted travel.

• Luggage: You can bring up to three items onboard Southeastern services – such as two larger bags and one piece of hand luggage – but be sure to stow them in designated storage racks to avoid blocking aisles or doors.
• Bicycles: Standard bikes and electric bikes are allowed on Southeastern trains during off-peak times and at weekends, but are not permitted on certain routes during peak times on weekdays. Folding bikes are permitted on all services at any time.
• Children: Kids under five can travel free of charge, while children aged between 5-15 pay half the standard adult fare. At weekends and during off-peak times, children can travel for just £1 return when accompanied by a fare-paying adult. 16- and 17-year-olds are eligible for half-price fares with a 16-17 Saver railcard.
• Pets: On Southeastern services, passengers may travel with up to two small pets free of charge. Animals must be transported in a secure carrier or kept on a lead.
• Passenger Assist: Older travellers and passengers requiring a little extra help navigating stations, carrying luggage or boarding can request assistance in advance via the app or on the day at staffed stations.

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