- Must visit
Wardown House, Museum and Gallery
Victorian mansion housing Luton's main museum and gallery, covering local history, hat making, and decorative arts in a landscaped park setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basingstoke to Luton
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$52
Average price
$69
Fastest journey
2 h 10 m
Average duration
2 h 15 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
83 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basingstoke to Luton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basingstoke to Luton will cost around $69 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Basingstoke for Luton on Tue, Jun 16, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 16 the direct trains cover the 83 km distance in an average of 2 h 15 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 10 m .
On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest trains will take 2 h 26 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
9:30 AM2h10Basingstoke11:40 AMLuton$521One-way0 transfers- 8:30 AM2h10Basingstoke10:40 AMLuton$761One-way0 transfers
5:04 AM2h26Basingstoke7:30 AMLuton$781One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 AM2h10Basingstoke11:40 AMLuton$521One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 AM2h10Basingstoke10:40 AMLuton$761One-way0 transfers
- 5:04 AM2h26Basingstoke7:30 AMLuton$781One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Basingstoke to Luton
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Basingstoke to Luton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 52m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $51.
Distance: 51 miles (83 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$69 Average price | $27 Average price Cheapest | $25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 22m Average total duration Fastest 1h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 59m Average total duration 3h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Basingstoke to Luton is a bus with an average price of $27 (€22).
This is compared to other travel options from Basingstoke to Luton:
A bus is $42 (€34) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basingstoke to Luton costing on average $69 (€56).
The fastest way to travel from Basingstoke to Luton is by train with an average journey time of 1h 52m.
Other travel options to Luton take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Basingstoke and Luton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Basingstoke to Luton among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $69 (€56) compared to roughly $25 (€20) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-44.35 (€-35.87). The journey takes 1h 52m versus 1h 18m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Basingstoke to Luton train times
The table below shows live departures for Basingstoke to Luton trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:04 AM Basingstoke | 2h26 | 7:30 AM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:30 AM Basingstoke | 2h10 | 10:40 AM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:30 AM Basingstoke | 2h10 | 11:40 AM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basingstoke to Luton by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Tue
Jun 16
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Jun 17
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Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Jun 19
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Jun 20
Jun 20
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Jun 22
Why should you book Basingstoke to Luton trains with Omio?
South Western Railway as well as Thameslink, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Basingstoke to Luton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Basingstoke to Luton.
Why book with Omio vs South Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for South Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Basingstoke to Luton.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare South Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Basingstoke to Luton.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Basingstoke to Luton.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Basingstoke to Luton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basingstoke to Luton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Basingstoke to Luton run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 52m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $51 (€42) but you can travel from only $18 (€15) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:23. The fastest train covers the 51 miles (83 km) distance in 2h 5m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $18 (€15)
Distance 51 miles (83 km) |
Average train duration 1h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price $51 (€42) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 5m |
First train 12:05 AM |
Last train 11:23 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $18 (€15)
Train companies: South Western Railway, Thameslink, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Basingstoke to Luton trainsSouth Western Railway, Thameslink, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Basingstoke and Luton from $18 (€15). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 5m
Cheapest Price
$51 (€42)
South Western Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Thameslink
About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 20m
Cheapest Price
$73 (€59)
Thameslink frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 53m
Cheapest Price
$131 (€106)
Cross Country frequency
2 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 50m
Cheapest Price
$121 (€98)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
9 a day
Complete guide to Luton
Things to do in Luton
Discover the best of Luton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Luton trip today.
- Recommended
Stockwood Discovery Centre
Museum and gardens with local history displays, carriages, and the period Mossman Collection. A strong family-friendly introduction to Luton's heritage.
- Recommended
The Higgins Bedford
Major nearby art gallery and museum often visited from Luton for its fine art, local history, and rotating exhibitions. Worth considering for a wider cultural day trip.
- Must visit
Wardown Park
Luton's best-known park, combining lakeside walks, open lawns, and the museum house. A top everyday local favorite and easy first stop.
- Recommended
Stockwood Park
Large park with open green space, gardens, golf facilities, and access to the discovery centre. Popular for relaxed walks and family visits.
- Recommended
High Town
Creative neighborhood known for independent spirit, murals, studios, and a more local side of Luton that has gained popularity in recent years.
Bedfordshire Clanger
A traditional Bedfordshire pastry with a savory filling at one end and a sweet filling at the other, created as a hearty farmworker meal from the area around Luton.
Lardy Cake
A rich local baked treat made with bread dough, dried fruit, sugar, and lard, long associated with Bedfordshire and nearby counties.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Bedfordshire Plum Cheese
A regional fruit preserve made from plums rather than dairy, traditionally served with cold meats, bread, or cheese boards in Bedfordshire.
Wigmore Fish Restaurant
A long-established local favorite known for classic fish and chips, generous portions, and a relaxed casual atmosphere.
The Brache Beefeater
A reliable casual dining venue serving grilled meats, burgers, and British pub staples in a family-friendly setting.
Off The Wall
A well-known central Luton pub and restaurant with classic British dishes, drinks, and a lively social atmosphere.
Pound sterling
Generally cheaper than central London, but airport-area hotels and some transport can raise costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 15-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 50+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up taxis. No tip needed for pubs, cafes, or takeaway.
Luton DART
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.80
To the city center
Luton Airport Parkway, Luton -> Luton Station Interchange, Luton
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- Bus fares in Luton are capped, and many operators accept contactless card payment on board.
- Use Intalink and operator apps to check live departures, as tickets and fare rules vary by operator.
FAQs: Trains from Basingstoke to Luton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basingstoke to Luton by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Luton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Basingstoke to Luton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $51 (€42), while the average price is around $69 (€56).
The train from Basingstoke to Luton takes 2h 5m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Basingstoke to Luton leaves at 12:05 AM.
The distance by train from Basingstoke to Luton is 51 miles (83 km).
The last train from Basingstoke to Luton leaves at 11:23 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Basingstoke to Luton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Basingstoke to Luton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Basingstoke to Luton.
The train station in Basingstoke that goes to Luton is Basingstoke station (BSK), which connects to London Luton Airport (LUA).
The cheapest way to get from Basingstoke to Luton is by bus, with a cost of around $18 (€15).
The train journey from Basingstoke to Luton primarily travels through urban and suburban areas, with stretches of countryside offering views of fields and rolling hills, making it moderately scenic.
A day trip from Basingstoke to Luton is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 5m and the distance is 51 miles (83 km). However, trains run 6 times per day.
In Luton, visitors can explore The Mall Luton for shopping and dining, enjoy family-friendly activities at Woodside Animal Farm, and shop for fresh produce and crafts at Luton Indoor Market. For outdoor activities, Stockwood Park offers a space for picnics and sports. For entertainment, The Galaxy provides a cinema and bowling alley. Key sights include the Stockwood Discovery Centre with its local history exhibits and gardens, Wardown House Museum and Gallery, Luton Hoo Estate with its gardens and golf course, Whipsnade Zoo, and The Hat Factory Arts Centre, which hosts performances and art exhibitions.
Visitors typically find that spending one to two days in Luton is sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Stockwood Discovery Centre, Wardown House, and the charming local parks.
Yes, you can take the train from Basingstoke to Luton.
Since neither Basingstoke nor Luton are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Luton include London, Bedford, St Albans, Wellingborough, Harpenden.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Basingstoke to Luton among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Luton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as Luton Airport and the town center. Taxi scams can occur, so using licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation is advised. Be wary of unofficial currency exchange services offering poor rates or counterfeit notes. Staying vigilant in busy spots and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Basingstoke to Luton
Basingstoke
Luton
The major train station for departures in Basingstoke is Basingstoke. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Basingstoke for your trip from Basingstoke to Luton.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:00 - 21:30 Saturday 06:00 - 21:30 Sunday 07:00 - 21:30
Parking
- Car Park: Premium
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Step-free category B2 station. This station has step-free access to all platforms via lifts from the main entrance. The rear entrance has level access to Platforms 4 and 5 (and to other platforms via lifts) but is only open Monday-Friday 0600 until 1000 and from 1500 until 2345 (closed at weekends) - outside these times a stepped subway must be used. The alternative step-free route from the rear to the main entrance via the street is approximately 380m and includes missing dropped kerbs and sections of route without a pavement. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on all the platforms. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1, Platforms 2/3 and Platform 4; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff upon request. A 'National Key Scheme' key [RADAR] can be purchased by contacting the following. Address: 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF. Tel: 020 7250 3222. Minicom: 020 7250 4119. Fax: 020 7250 0212. Email: [email protected]
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: All platforms
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Car park and platform 4
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Basingstoke
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Station Forecourt, off Alencon Link
The major train station for arrivals in Luton is Luton. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Luton for your journey to Luton from Basingstoke.
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 21:45 Saturday 05:45 - 22:00 Sunday 06:45 - 21:45
Parking
- Car Park: Station Road Car Park
Taxis
- Taxi: YES
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station: Step free access via lift to platform 5 only (some trains to Bedford/ the East Midlands) only. Steps to all other platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: There are heated waiting areas on platforms 1 to 4
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Front and rear entrances
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:00 - 00:30 Saturday 06:30 - 00:00 Sunday 07:30 - 00:00
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: Coffee shops
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Taxis
- Taxi: YES
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: There is a heated waiting area on platforms 2 and 3 and also adjacent to platform 4
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Front of station and Kimpton Road
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Most popular train connections from Basingstoke
More options for your journey from Basingstoke to Luton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Luton and Basingstoke
Most popular train connections to Luton
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