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Southampton to London by train
It takes an average of 2h 0m to travel from Southampton to London by train, over a distance of around 69 miles (111 km). There are normally 102 trains per day traveling from Southampton to London and tickets for this journey start from $9.39 when you book in advance.
| First train | 3:52 am | |
|---|---|---|
| Last train | 12:10 am | |
| Departure station | Southampton | |
| Arrival station | London | |
| Journey time | From 1h 6m | |
| Distance | 69 miles (111 km) | |
| Frequency | 102 trains per day | |
| Changes | Direct trains available | |
| Price | From $9.39 | |
| Train operators |
How to travel from Southampton to London by train in just over an hour
Want to take a trip to the capital and need more information about the journey by train from Southampton to London? Start your journey with us!
Generally, the train journey from Southampton to London takes around 2 hours and 6 minutes, although the fastest services can take you there in just 1 hour and 9 minutes. With around 117 direct services traveling the 69 miles from Southampton to London, you don’t need to worry about making any changes along the way.
On this route, there are two train operators to choose from – South Western Railway and Southern. With both, you’ll jump on a train at Southampton Central station and enjoy onboard amenities such as comfortable seating, luggage storage and free WiFi on most services. If you’re traveling with South Western Railway, your train will arrive at London Waterloo Station, whereas if you’re on a Southern service, you’ll arrive at London Victoria station.
From both stations, you’re situated close to some of London’s most iconic landmarks. Unsure where to begin? Find inspiration in our guide to the 14 best things to do in London, including a visit to Trafalgar Square and Kensington Palace. Or if you'd like to follow in the footsteps of famous singers, take a look at the locations featured in the movie Back to Black.
If you want to book the cheapest train tickets, try traveling during Off-Peak times – outside of morning/evening rush hours between Monday and Friday. Also, keep your eye out for Advance ticket, they are usually released 12 weeks prior to the departure date and tend to be cheaper than purchasing on the day of travel.
Ready to book? There’s no need to wait, start a search for cheap train tickets from Southampton to London in our Journey Planner at the top of the page. Continue reading for train timetables, FAQs and tips on how to find cheaper train fares.
FAQs about the train journey from Southampton to London
Want to know more about your journey from Southampton to London? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
Can you take a train directly from Southampton to London?
How close is Southampton to London by train?
Is it possible to get from Southampton to London without flying?
What is the best way to travel from Southampton to London?
What time does the first train from Southampton to London leave?
What time does the last train from Southampton to London leave?
How often are trains from Southampton and London?
Do you need to book the train from Southampton to London in advance?
Can you buy return train tickets from Southampton to London?
Cheap train tickets from Southampton to London
Book in advance
Look out for Advance tickets – they usually come out up to 12 weeks before the departure date and can be cheaper than buying on the day. If you’re here a tad early, sign up for our Advance ticket alert today to get notified when your tickets are released.
Consider a Season Ticket
If you catch this train more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly and weekly options available, find out if a season ticket for Southampton to London is right for you.
Use your Railcard
National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel a few times or more in a year. Find out how you can save with a National Railcard here.
Split your tickets
Download our app to find split tickets — courtesy of SplitSave, our handy feature which 'splits' your train tickets where possible to find you a better deal. Learn more about the clever tech behind split tickets, and how to spot SplitSave discounts in our app.
For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.
* Based on European average monthly visitors to Trainline’s app and website from 1.1.2023 to 10.31.2023 vs other independent retailers.