Brighton to Watford train with Southern

Thu, Jul 30
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Southern
Thameslink
London Overground
Gatwick Express
Southern
2,000+ travel companies
Southern
Thameslink
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Gatwick Express
Southern
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brighton to Watford

Showing times and prices for Jul 30

Cheapest price

$16

Average price

$44

Fastest journey

2 h 3 m

Average duration

2 h 10 m

Trains per day

12

Distance

94 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Brighton to Watford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Brighton to Watford will cost around $44 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $16.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Brighton to Watford without transferring at least once.

  • SouthernG77379 · G26414 · G27751
    12:13 PM2h08
    Brighton station (BTN)
    2:21 PMWatford Junction (WFJ)
    $161One-way
    2 transfers
  • ThameslinkW45474+SouthernG27751
    12:14 PM2h07
    Brighton station (BTN)
    2:21 PMWatford Junction (WFJ)
    $421One-way
    1 transfer
  • ThameslinkW45372+SouthernC82393+London OvergroundG07264 · C34263
    12:28 PM2h30
    Brighton station (BTN)
    2:58 PMWatford High Street (WFH)
    $421One-way
    3 transfers
  • ThameslinkW45474+SouthernG27751+London OvergroundL22426
    12:14 PM2h19
    Brighton station (BTN)
    2:33 PMWatford High Street (WFH)
    $421One-way
    2 transfers
  • ThameslinkW45372+West Midlands TrainsW70364+SouthernC82393+London OvergroundG07264
    12:28 PM2h31
    Brighton station (BTN)
    2:59 PMWatford Junction (WFJ)
    $421One-way
    4 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Brighton to Watford

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Brighton to Watford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 47m. 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 train costs an average of $21, and a train costs an average of $21.

Distance: 58 miles (94 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

$44

Average price

Cheapest

$21

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 17m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 47m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 47m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

Southern

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Brighton to Watford is a train with an average price of $44 (€44).
The fastest way to travel from Brighton to Watford is by train with an average journey time of 1h 47m.

Other travel options to Watford take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 18m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Brighton and Watford including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Brighton to Watford 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 $44 (€44) compared to roughly $21 (€21) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-22.92 (€-22.92). The journey takes 1h 47m versus 1h 47m 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.

Compare prices and tickets Brighton to Watford by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

Thu
Jul 30
Fri
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
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Aug 02
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Aug 03
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Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05

Why should you book Brighton to Watford trains with Omio?

Southern as well as Thameslink, London Overground, Gatwick Express, Southern and more offer trains services from Brighton to Watford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Brighton to Watford.

Why book with Omio vs Southern?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Southern, but also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink, London Overground, Gatwick Express or Southern to find the best option for your trip from Brighton to Watford.
  • 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 Southern with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brighton to Watford.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink, London Overground, Gatwick Express or Southern to find the best option for your trip from Brighton to Watford.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Brighton to Watford.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Brighton to Watford

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Brighton to Watford run on average 22 times per day, taking around 1h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€21) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:11, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 58 miles (94 km) distance in 2h 8m.

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
Distance
58 miles (94 km)
Average train duration
1h 47m
Cheapest ticket price
$21 (€21)
Trains per day
22
Fastest train
2h 8m
First train
12:11 AM
Last train
11:54 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
3 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

Train companies: Southern, Thameslink, London Overground, Gatwick Express from Brighton to Watford trainsSouthern, Thameslink, London Overground, Gatwick Express trains will get you between Brighton and Watford from $21 (€21). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
2h 8m
Cheapest Price
$41 (€41)
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

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 27m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€21)
Thameslink frequency
27 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

Gatwick Express

About
Gatwick Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport, with trains running every 15 minutes throughout the day. The trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi. There are two types of trains: the Gatwick Express and the Southern service. The Gatwick Express is the fastest service, taking just 30 minutes to reach the airport. The Southern service takes a few minutes longer but offers more stops along the way.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 20m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€53)
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
Refunds available according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack trolley service available on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, staff assistance for boarding and alighting
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead.

London Overground

About
London Overground is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a network of suburban rail services in and around Greater London. The services run from early morning until late at night, with some lines running 24 hours a day. The trains come in a variety of types, including the Class 378 Capitalstar, Class 172 Turbostar, Class 315, Class 317, Class 508 and Class 700 Desiro City. London Overground offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, off-peak and super off-peak tickets. Onboard facilities include air-conditioning, Wi-Fi, power sockets and CCTV. The most popular routes for London Overground are from Euston to Watford Junction, from Liverpool Street to Enfield Town, and from Clapham Junction to Stratford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 37m
Cheapest Price
$45 (€45)
Luggage included
Two large items of luggage and one small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Luggage racks available at the ends of carriages and overhead storage
Cancellation Policy
Refunds subject to administrative fee and fare conditions
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at many stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Maximum two dogs per passenger

Complete guide to Watford

Things to do in Watford

Discover the best of Watford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Watford trip today.

  • Must visit

Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter

Major film attraction at Warner Bros. Studios with sets, props, and behind-the-scenes exhibits from the Harry Potter films.

  • Recommended

Watford Museum

Compact local museum covering Watford's people, industry, art, and football heritage in a historic former brewery setting.

  • Recommended

Little Cassiobury House

Elegant Jacobean house with period rooms, exhibitions, and gardens, offering a strong sense of Hertfordshire country-house history.

British Pound Sterling (£)

Moderate for UK trips: hotels and rail can be pricey, but dining and local transit are usually cheaper than central London.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants often add 10-12.5% service; if not, round up or tip 10%. Taxis: round up. Cafes and pubs: tipping is optional, small change appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Brighton to Watford

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Brighton to Watford 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 Watford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Brighton to Watford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $21 (€21), while the average price is around $44 (€44).
The train from Brighton to Watford takes 2h 8m and runs 22 per day.
The distance by train from Brighton to Watford is 58 miles (94 km).
The first train from Brighton to Watford leaves at 12:11 AM.
The last train from Brighton to Watford leaves at 11:54 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Brighton to Watford.
There is no direct train service currently available from Brighton to Watford.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Brighton to Watford.
The train station in Brighton that goes to Watford is Brighton station (BTN), which connects to Watford Junction (WFJ).
The cheapest way to get from Brighton to Watford is by train, with a cost of around $21 (€21).
The train journey from Brighton to Watford offers a mix of urban and suburban scenery, featuring views of the South Downs, charming countryside, and glimpses of the River Thames as you approach London.
A day trip from Brighton to Watford is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 8m. However, there are 22 trains per day, covering a distance of 58 miles (94 km).
In Watford, you can enjoy performances at the historic Watford Palace Theatre and community events at the Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre. For shopping and entertainment, visit Intu Watford. Experience fun golfing at Topgolf Watford or explore nature at Rickmansworth Aquadrome. Discover local history at Watford Museum and the enchanting world of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Relax at Cassiobury Park, stroll through the gardens at Cheslyn House, or indulge at the luxurious Grove hotel and estate.
To explore Watford's main attractions, including the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter and Cassiobury Park, a stay of 1 to 2 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Brighton to Watford.
Since neither Brighton nor Watford 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 Watford include London, Kings Langley, Birmingham, Hemel Hempstead, Coventry.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Brighton to Watford 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 Watford, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the town center and around public transport hubs. Common scams include bogus ticket sellers and unofficial taxi services, so it's advised to book transportation through trusted providers. Staying alert in busy spots and using official channels for tickets and rides 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 Brighton to Watford

Most Brighton to Watford trains use the Brighton to Watford Junction station pair, with some services arriving at Watford High Street. Use this guide to compare Brighton and Watford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Brighton
Arrival train stations in Watford

Which Brighton station do trains to Watford leave from?

Trains from Brighton to Watford leave from Brighton. The station is from Brighton city centre at Brighton Station, Queens Rd, Brighton BN1 3XP, United Kingdom.
BrightonBrighton Station, Queens Rd, Brighton BN1 3XP, United Kingdom+44 345 127 2920WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Brighton from Brighton city centre

Bus37, 52 · 4m · $1 · every ~6 min

Brighton train station facilities and services

Brighton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: The Grand Central, The Cyclist

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Brighton. Information desks are located in the main concourse.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Brighton. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Brighton: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Brighton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Brighton: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Jurys Inn Brighton, Ibis Brighton City Centre, My Brighton Hotel.

HoveHove station, Goldstone Villas, Hove, East Sussex, BN3 3RUShoppingParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Hove from Brighton city centre

Hove is 2 km from Brighton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainBrighton - Southampton Central, Brighton - Chichester, Brighton - Portsmouth & Southsea, Brighton - West Worthing, Brighton - Hove, Brighton - Angmering, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Bognor Regis, Brighton - Worthing, London Victoria - Worthing, Brighton - Havant, Brighton - Littlehampton, Brighton - London Victoria, Brighton - Haywards Heath, Brighton - Barnham · 3m · $1 · every ~8 min
Bus7, 3X, N7 · 12m · $2 · every ~40 min
47, 52 · 14m · $2 · every ~4 min

Hove train station facilities and services

Hove has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Hove.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Hove.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hove: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Hove: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hove: 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. 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 Southern 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.

Preston ParkPreston Park station, Clermont Road, Preston Park, Brighton, East Sussex, BN1 6SGParkingDiningAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Preston Park from Brighton city centre

Preston Park is 2 km from Brighton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainBrighton - Bedford, Brighton - London Bridge, Brighton - West Hampstead Thameslink, Brighton - Cambridge, Brighton - Luton, Brighton - Mill Hill Broadway · 3m · $1 · every ~6 min
BusUk998, Uk066 · 11m · $1 · every ~1 min
025 · 16m · $1 · every ~4 min

Preston Park train station facilities and services

Preston Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Preston Park.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Preston Park.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Preston Park: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Preston Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Preston Park: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: This is a Category C station: This station does not have step-free access. Assistance Meeting Point is outside the ticket office on platforms 1 and 2, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern 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: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

More options for your journey from Brighton to Watford

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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