Getting to London Charing Cross station
Our train to Folkestone departed from London Charing Cross, one of the most central railway stations in London. We took the bus to get to the station but you can also take the tube – Charing Cross is on the Bakerloo and Northern lines, plus it provides an interchange with London Charing Cross mainline station so it’s super easy to get there.
As there was still plenty of time before our train was due to depart, we got off the bus near Trafalgar Square, took a picture with the Fourth Plinth swirl of cream sculpture and had a nice walk along the Strand.
Boarding the train
We boarded a Southeastern train at 09:40 and were glad to find the carriage quite empty, with lots of table seats available, and plenty of space to stretch out and relax.
Insider tip: wherever you decide to sit, you’ll get to enjoy great views of London’s landmarks, with the London Eye on the right and Tower Bridge on the left.
The journey
It took us 1 hour and 40 minutes to get from London to Folkestone. The train whisked us from central London to Kent’s countryside and seaside towns, stopping at Waterloo East, London Bridge, Sevenoaks, Tonbridge, Paddock Wood, Marden, Staplehurst, Headcorn, Pluckley, Ashford International, Westenhanger, Sandling, and Folkestone West before reaching Folkestone Central station.
We made use of the free WiFi available on board throughout the journey – it was quite good! Our train arrived right on time (at 11:20) at Folkestone Central station. As soon as we got off, we stopped by Folkestone’s harbour to grab a bite and then walked for about 20 minutes until we reached Sunny Sands beach, ready to soak up the sun.
If you’re planning a day trip to the beach from London, I highly recommend taking the train to Folkestone. You’ll get there in less than 2 hours on a direct train, and you’ll be only a few minutes away from both the town centre and the beach.
About Paola
Paola, a Trainline employee, chose to share her experience of the journey between London and Folkestone.