- Recommended
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
Interactive museum inside a medieval church telling the story of Canterbury’s Roman, medieval, and modern past. Ideal first stop for context.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bournemouth to Canterbury
Showing times and prices for Jul 28
Cheapest price
$43
Average price
$43
Fastest journey
5 h 38 m
Average duration
5 h 38 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
216 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bournemouth to Canterbury is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bournemouth to Canterbury will cost around $43 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $43.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Bournemouth for Canterbury on Tue, Jul 28, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jul 28 the direct trains cover the 216 km distance in an average of 5 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 38 m .
On Tue, Jul 28 the slowest trains will take 5 h 38 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.
7:56 AM5h38Bournemouth1:34 PMCanterbury$431One-way0 transfers- 8:56 AM5h38Bournemouth2:34 PMCanterbury$441One-way0 transfers
- 8:56 AM5h38Bournemouth2:34 PMCanterbury$441One-way0 transfers
- 7:56 AM5h38Bournemouth1:34 PMCanterbury$431One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Bournemouth to Canterbury
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bournemouth to Canterbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 57m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a train costs an average of $42.
Distance: 134 miles (216 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$50 Average price | $26 Average price Cheapest | $47 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 27m Average total duration Fastest 3h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 51m Average total duration 5h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 51m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Bournemouth to Canterbury is a bus with an average price of $26 (€26).
This is compared to other travel options from Bournemouth to Canterbury:
A bus is $24 (€24) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bournemouth to Canterbury costing on average $50 (€50).
The fastest way to travel from Bournemouth to Canterbury is by train with an average journey time of 3h 57m.
Other travel options to Canterbury take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 21m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Bournemouth and Canterbury including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bournemouth to Canterbury 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 $50 (€50) compared to roughly $47 (€47) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-2.67 (€-2.67). The journey takes 3h 57m versus 2h 51m 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
Bournemouth to Canterbury train times
The table below shows live departures for Bournemouth to Canterbury trains for today, Monday, July 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:56 AM Bournemouth | 5h38 | 1:34 PM Canterbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:56 AM Bournemouth | 5h38 | 2:34 PM Canterbury | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bournemouth to Canterbury 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
Jul 28
Jul 28
Wed
Jul 29
Jul 29
Thu
Jul 30
Jul 30
Fri
Jul 31
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Aug 01
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Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03
Aug 03
Why should you book Bournemouth to Canterbury trains with Omio?
South Western Railway as well as Southern offer trains services from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
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 Southern to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
- 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 Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Southern to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bournemouth to Canterbury
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bournemouth to Canterbury run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $42 (€42) but you can travel from only $17 (€17) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:18, the last at 21:23. The fastest train covers the 134 miles (216 km) distance in 4h 20m.
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 $17 (€17)
Distance 134 miles (216 km) |
Average train duration 3h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 (€42) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 20m |
First train 5:18 AM |
Last train 9:23 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 14 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 $17 (€17)
Train companies: South Western Railway, Southern from Bournemouth to Canterbury trainsSouth Western Railway, Southern trains will get you between Bournemouth and Canterbury from $17 (€17). 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
4h 20m
Cheapest Price
$127 (€127)
South Western Railway frequency
10 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
Southern
About
Southern Rail is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local commuter services. Its trains include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, and Class 444 and 450. It also offers a variety of ticket types, such as Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southern Rail are London to Brighton, London to Southampton, and London to Portsmouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 38m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€42)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require a ticket
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Canterbury
Things to do in Canterbury
Discover the best of Canterbury — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Canterbury trip today.
- Recommended
Canterbury Roman Museum
Underground remains of a Roman townhouse with mosaics and hypocaust. A compact but memorable look at Roman Canterbury beneath the streets.
- Recommended
The Canterbury Tales
Story-led museum on medieval pilgrimage inspired by Chaucer. It brings Canterbury’s most famous journeying tradition to life.
- Recommended
High Street
Pedestrian high street lined with historic buildings and shops. It is one of the best places to feel the rhythm of central Canterbury.
- Recommended
The King's Mile
Picturesque lane famed for overhanging medieval timber-framed buildings. One of Canterbury’s most photographed and atmospheric historic streets.
- Recommended
Mercery Lane
Elegant pedestrian street connecting major sights. Its historic façades, independent shops, and easy walking route make it especially pleasant.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kentish Huffkin
Kentish Huffkin is a traditional Kent bread roll, often served with cheese or fruit. It is a classic county bake linked to local farmhouse cooking.
- Vegetarian
Canterbury Tart
Canterbury Tart is a historic pastry tart, usually filled with apple and almond. It is associated with old Kent baking traditions and local tea tables.
- Gluten-free
Whitstable Oysters
Whitstable Oysters are served across Canterbury and East Kent. These native oysters are prized for their briny flavor and long link to the nearby coast.
The Corner House
Well-regarded modern British restaurant with seasonal menus and a smart yet relaxed setting in the city center.
The Goods Shed
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for polished British tasting menus and refined service in central Canterbury.
The Goods Shed
Popular farmers' market restaurant serving seasonal Kent produce, meats, cheeses, and simple dishes in a lively casual setting.
British Pound (£)
Moderate for UK travel. Hotels and dining cost less than London, but tourist-season stays and central restaurants raise prices. Local buses are reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included at restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxis: round up or add 5-10%. Cafes: optional small change.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Canterbury West Station -> Canterbury Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Canterbury. Ask the driver for the cheapest fare if you are making only one trip.
- Canterbury city centre is walkable from Canterbury West Station in about 10 min, but buses are useful for reaching outer areas and the Park and Ride sites.
FAQs: Trains from Bournemouth to Canterbury
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bournemouth to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Bournemouth to Canterbury can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $42 (€42), while the average price is around $50 (€50).
The train from Bournemouth to Canterbury takes 4h 20m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Bournemouth to Canterbury leaves at 5:18 AM.
The distance by train from Bournemouth to Canterbury is 134 miles (216 km).
The last train from Bournemouth to Canterbury leaves at 9:23 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
The train station in Bournemouth that goes to Canterbury is Bournemouth station (BMH), which connects to Canterbury West (CBW).
The cheapest way to get from Bournemouth to Canterbury is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€17).
The train journey from Bournemouth to Canterbury offers pleasant views of the English countryside, passing through picturesque landscapes, charming towns, and coastal glimpses, making it a scenic route.
A day trip from Bournemouth to Canterbury is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 20m. There are 4 train trips per day covering a distance of 134 miles (216 km).
In Canterbury, you can explore the historic streets on a guided walking tour, enjoy a punting tour on the River Stour, and visit the Canterbury Tales attraction. Attend a performance at The Marlowe Theatre or discover the local food scene with a culinary tour. Don't miss the Canterbury Cathedral, St. Augustine's Abbey, and the Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint. Additionally, explore the Canterbury Roman Museum and take a leisurely walk in Westgate Gardens.
To fully experience Canterbury, including its historic sites like Canterbury Cathedral, the Roman Museum, and the charming streets, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Since neither Bournemouth nor Canterbury 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 Canterbury include London, Chatham, Dover, Rochester, Ashford.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Bournemouth to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and around popular tourist sites. Scams involving overcharging or unofficial taxi services can also occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed transportation. Staying aware of surroundings 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 Bournemouth to Canterbury
Most Bournemouth to Canterbury trains use the Bournemouth to Canterbury West station pair, with some services arriving at Canterbury East. Use this guide to compare Bournemouth and Canterbury train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bournemouth
Arrival train stations in Canterbury
Which Bournemouth station do trains to Canterbury leave from?
Trains from Bournemouth to Canterbury leave from Bournemouth. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bournemouth city centre at Bournemouth station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8HX.
BournemouthBournemouth station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8HX+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Bournemouth from Bournemouth city centre
Bournemouth is 1 km from Bournemouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 5, 6, 50, m1, 12, 13A, N5, N1, 11, 21 · 6m · $2 · every ~74 min
m1, 5, 6, 50, 13, 12, 13A, 21, 11, N5, N1 · 7m · $2 · every ~74 min
Bournemouth train station facilities and services
Bournemouth has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bournemouth.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bournemouth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bournemouth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bournemouth: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bournemouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bournemouth: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B2 station. Level access to both sides of station from separate entrances. Long and steep ramped subway between platforms - up to 1:8 gradient Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial 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.
PokesdownPokesdown station, Christchurch Road, Pokesdown, Dorset, BH7 6DL
City-centre transport
Getting to Pokesdown from Bournemouth city centre
Pokesdown is 4 km from Bournemouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainPoole - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Southampton Central, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - London Waterloo, Poole - Brockenhurst, Bournemouth - Winchester, Poole - Winchester, Weymouth - Woking, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Poole - Southampton Central · 3m · $1 · every ~4 min
Busm2, 1A, 1B, 1C, 22, N2 · 17m · $2 · every ~58 min
m2, 1A, 1B, 1C, 22, N2 · 18m · $2 · every ~58 min
Pokesdown train station facilities and services
Pokesdown has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Pokesdown.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Pokesdown.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Pokesdown.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Pokesdown: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Pokesdown: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Which Canterbury station do trains from Bournemouth arrive at?
Trains from Bournemouth to Canterbury most often arrive at Canterbury West. Some services arrive at Canterbury East, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Canterbury arrival station.
Canterbury WestCanterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury West from Canterbury city centre
Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · $3 · every ~22 min
Canterbury West train station facilities and services
Canterbury West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: two within concourse, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Canterbury EastCanterbury East station, Station Road East, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2RB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury East from Canterbury city centre
Bus649 · 9m
Canterbury East train station facilities and services
Canterbury East has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury East.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Canterbury East.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury East. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury East: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury East: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury East: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The Ticket Vending Machines's can only be accessed when the station building is open as they are in the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
More options for your journey from Bournemouth to Canterbury
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Canterbury and Bournemouth
Most popular train connections to Canterbury
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