Brighton to Cambridge train with Thameslink

Sun, Sep 20
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Thameslink
Southern
Greater Anglia
Great Northern
Southern
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Thameslink
Southern
Greater Anglia
Great Northern
Southern
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Brighton to Cambridge

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

$33

Average ticket price on Sep 20

$58

Fastest journey on Sep 20

2 h 28 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

3 h 6 m

Trains on Sep 20

9

Distance

154 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Brighton to Cambridge will cost around $58 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.

Fast trains

On Sun, Sep 20, we found 9 trains from Brighton to Cambridge, including 9 direct services.

On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 154 km distance in an average of 3 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 28 m .

On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 3 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.

  • Thameslink
    9:18 AM3h05
    Brighton
    12:23 PMCambridge
    $331One-way
    0 transfers
  • Thameslink
    7:39 AM3h11
    Brighton
    10:50 AMCambridge
    $571One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Northern
    9:11 AM3h26
    Brighton
    12:37 PMCambridge
    $581One-way
    0 transfers
  • Southern
    6:17 AM3h33
    Brighton
    9:50 AMCambridge
    $621One-way
    0 transfers
  • Thameslink
    6:48 AM4h02
    Brighton
    10:50 AMCambridge
    $621One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Brighton to Cambridge

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Brighton to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $42 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 56m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, while a train costs an average of $59.

Distance: 95 miles (154 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$59

Average price

$42

Average price

Cheapest

$49

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 56m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 26m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 48m

Average total duration

4h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 22m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Thameslink

Most popular train company

National Express

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 Brighton to Cambridge is a bus with an average price of $42.

This is compared to other travel options from Brighton to Cambridge:

A bus is $17 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Brighton to Cambridge costing on average $59.

The fastest way to travel from Brighton to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 2h 26m.

Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 18m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Brighton and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Brighton to Cambridge 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 $59 compared to roughly $49 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-10.52. The journey takes 2h 26m versus 2h 22m 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

Brighton to Cambridge train times

The table below shows live departures for Brighton to Cambridge trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ThameslinkW45734
On time
12:14 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h21
2:35 PM Cambridge South
0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkC02738
On time
12:44 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h21
3:05 PM Cambridge South
0 transfersDirect
ThameslinkC02675 · C02710
On time
12:58 PM Brighton station (BTN)
2h37
3:35 PM Cambridge South
1 transfer
Sunday, September 20
Southern6:17 AM Brighton
3h33
9:50 AM Cambridge0 transfersDirect
Greater Anglia6:26 AM Brighton
4h01
10:27 AM Cambridge0 transfersDirect
Thameslink6:48 AM Brighton
4h02
10:50 AM Cambridge0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Brighton to Cambridge 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.

Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26

Why should you book Brighton to Cambridge trains with Omio?

Southern as well as Thameslink, Gatwick Express, Greater Anglia, Great Northern and more offer trains services from Brighton to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Brighton to Cambridge.

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, Gatwick Express, Greater Anglia or Great Northern to find the best option for your trip from Brighton to Cambridge.
  • 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Brighton to Cambridge.

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, Gatwick Express, Greater Anglia or Great Northern to find the best option for your trip from Brighton to Cambridge.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Brighton to Cambridge.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Brighton to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Brighton to Cambridge run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 but you can travel from only $9 by bus.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:43, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 95 miles (154 km) distance in 1h 58m.

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 $9
Distance
95 miles (154 km)
Average train duration
2h 26m
Cheapest ticket price
$30
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
1h 58m
First train
3:43 AM
Last train
11:53 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
1 day
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 $9

Train companies: Thameslink, Gatwick Express, Greater Anglia, Southern, Great Northern from Brighton to Cambridge trainsThameslink, Gatwick Express, Greater Anglia, Southern, Great Northern trains will get you between Brighton and Cambridge from $9. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Greater Anglia

About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greater Anglia Duration
2h 41m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
$62
Greater Anglia frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
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 Southern Duration
2h 8m
Cheapest Southern Price
$61
Southern frequency
1 a day
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 Thameslink Duration
2h 7m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
$30
Thameslink frequency
6 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

Great Northern

About
Great Northern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and sleeper services. The high-speed trains are called InterCity Express Trains and they offer a fast and comfortable journey between major cities. The regional trains are called Regional Express Trains and they provide a slower but more frequent service to smaller towns and villages. The sleeper services are called Caledonian Sleeper Trains and they offer overnight journeys with comfortable sleeping compartments. Great Northern offers a variety of ticket types, including single, return, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Great Northern are London to Cambridge, London to Peterborough, and London to Norwich. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Northern Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest Great Northern Price
$64
Great Northern 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
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free, maximum two dogs per passenger, must be on lead
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 Gatwick Express Duration
1h 58m
Cheapest Gatwick Express Price
$62
Gatwick Express frequency
3 a day
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.

Complete guide to Cambridge

Things to do in Cambridge

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

  • Must visit

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.

  • Recommended

Scott Polar Research Institute Museum

Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.

  • Recommended

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

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

Tipping culture

Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Brighton to Cambridge

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Brighton to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $30, while the average price is around $59.
The train from Brighton to Cambridge takes 1h 58m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Brighton to Cambridge is 95 miles (154 km).
The first train from Brighton to Cambridge leaves at 3:43 AM.
The last train from Brighton to Cambridge leaves at 11:53 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Brighton to Cambridge.
Yes, there is a direct train from Brighton to Cambridge. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Thameslink.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Brighton to Cambridge.
The train station in Brighton that goes to Cambridge is Brighton station (BTN), which connects to Cambridge station (CBG).
The cheapest way to get from Brighton to Cambridge is by bus, with a cost of around $9.
The train journey from Brighton to Cambridge offers varied scenery, including picturesque countryside views, rolling hills, and charming English villages, making parts of the trip quite scenic.
A day trip from Brighton to Cambridge is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 58m each way. Trains run 7 times per day, covering a distance of 95 miles (154 km).
In Cambridge, you can enjoy punting on the River Cam for scenic views, visit the interactive Cambridge Science Centre, explore the historic Market Square, or attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre. Discover the city's rich history on a guided walking tour. Don't miss the stunning King's College Chapel, the art-filled Fitzwilliam Museum, the picturesque Backs, the historic Trinity College, and the tranquil Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
For a fulfilling experience in Cambridge, spending two to three days is ideal to explore its historic colleges, museums, and the picturesque River Cam.
Yes, you can take the train from Brighton to Cambridge.
Since neither Brighton nor Cambridge 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 Cambridge include London, Stevenage, Hitchin, Peterborough, Letchworth Garden City.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Brighton to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help 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 Cambridge

Most Brighton to Cambridge trains use the Brighton to Cambridge station pair, with some services arriving at Cambridge South. Use this guide to compare Brighton and Cambridge 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 Cambridge

Which Brighton station do trains to Cambridge leave from?

Trains from Brighton to Cambridge 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.

More options for your journey from Brighton to Cambridge

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

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