Cambridge to Bournemouth train with South Western Railway

Mon, Sep 14
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South Western Railway
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cambridge to Bournemouth

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 14

Cheapest price on Sep 14

$57

Average ticket price on Sep 14

$57

Fastest journey on Sep 14

3 h 40 m

Average journey duration on Sep 14

3 h 40 m

Trains on Sep 14

1

Distance

215 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cambridge to Bournemouth will cost around $57 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $57.

Fast trains

On Mon, Sep 14, we found 1 trains from Cambridge to Bournemouth, including 1 direct services.

On Mon, Sep 14 the direct trains cover the 215 km distance in an average of 3 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 40 m .

On Mon, Sep 14 the slowest trains will take 3 h 40 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.

  • South Western Railway
    9:42 AM3h40
    Cambridge
    1:22 PMBournemouth
    $571One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cambridge to Bournemouth

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Bournemouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $65 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 46m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $65, while a train costs an average of $96.

Distance: 133 miles (215 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$96

Average price

$65

Average price

Cheapest

$59

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 46m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 20m

Average total duration

4h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 2m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

South Western Railway

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 Cambridge to Bournemouth is a bus with an average price of $65 (€53).

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

A bus is $31 (€25) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cambridge to Bournemouth costing on average $96 (€78).

The fastest way to travel from Cambridge to Bournemouth is by train with an average journey time of 3h 16m.

Other travel options to Bournemouth take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 50m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cambridge and Bournemouth including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge to Bournemouth 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 $96 (€78) compared to roughly $59 (€48) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-37.37 (€-30.22). The journey takes 3h 16m versus 3h 2m 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

Cambridge to Bournemouth train times

The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Bournemouth trains for tomorrow, Monday, September 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
South Western Railway9:42 AM Cambridge
3h40
1:22 PM Bournemouth0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cambridge to Bournemouth 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.

Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20

Why should you book Cambridge to Bournemouth trains with Omio?

South Western Railway operates all trains services from Cambridge to Bournemouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Bournemouth.

Why book with Omio vs South Western Railway?

  • 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cambridge to Bournemouth.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cambridge to Bournemouth.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cambridge to Bournemouth

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cambridge to Bournemouth run on average 13 times per day, taking around 3h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€23) but you can travel from only $23 (€18) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:26, the last at 22:14. The fastest train covers the 133 miles (215 km) distance in 2h 45m.

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 $23 (€18)
Distance
133 miles (215 km)
Average train duration
3h 16m
Cheapest ticket price
$29 (€23)
Trains per day
13
Fastest train
2h 45m
First train
4:26 AM
Last train
10:14 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Thu
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 $23 (€18)

Train companies: South Western Railway, CrossCountry, Thameslink, Great Northern from Cambridge to Bournemouth trainsSouth Western Railway, CrossCountry, Thameslink, Great Northern trains will get you between Cambridge and Bournemouth from $23 (€18). 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 South Western Railway Duration
2h 51m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
$29 (€23)
South Western Railway frequency
4 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

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
2h 45m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$154 (€125)
CrossCountry frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require 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
3h 13m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
$155 (€125)
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

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
3h 52m
Cheapest Great Northern Price
$156 (€126)
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

Complete guide to Bournemouth

Things to do in Bournemouth

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

  • Must visit

Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum

Victorian villa museum with local history, archaeology, and rotating exhibitions in one of Bournemouth’s most important heritage buildings.

  • Recommended

Red House Museum and Gardens

Volunteer-run local museum covering Christchurch history, archaeology, and community life in a characterful period setting.

  • Recommended

Bournemouth Aviation Museum

Specialist aviation museum at Bournemouth Airport displaying historic aircraft, cockpits, and memorabilia for enthusiasts and families.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for a UK seaside town: hotels peak in summer, dining is mid-priced, and local buses are fairly affordable for visitors.

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 cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if not already added. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but spare change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Cambridge to Bournemouth

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cambridge to Bournemouth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29 (€23), while the average price is around $96 (€78).
The train from Cambridge to Bournemouth takes 2h 45m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from Cambridge to Bournemouth is 133 miles (215 km).
The first train from Cambridge to Bournemouth leaves at 4:26 AM.
The last train from Cambridge to Bournemouth leaves at 10:14 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cambridge to Bournemouth.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cambridge to Bournemouth.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cambridge to Bournemouth.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Bournemouth is Cambridge station (CBG), which connects to Bournemouth station (BMH).
The cheapest way to get from Cambridge to Bournemouth is by bus, with a cost of around $23 (€18).
The train journey from Cambridge to Bournemouth offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, including views of the English countryside, charming towns, and rolling hills, making parts of the trip quite scenic.
A day trip from Cambridge to Bournemouth is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 45m. Trains run 7 times per day, covering a distance of 133 miles (215 km).
In Bournemouth, you can explore the Oceanarium to discover marine life, enjoy the floral displays and events at Lower Gardens, or visit Boscombe Chine Gardens for mini-golf and water play. Nature enthusiasts can head to Hengistbury Head for hiking and birdwatching. For aviation history, the Bournemouth Aviation Museum offers an interactive experience. Relax on the sandy expanses of Bournemouth Beach, or stroll along the Victorian-era Bournemouth Pier for entertainment and dining. The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum houses a diverse art collection, while Bournemouth Gardens provide a picturesque setting for walks and picnics. Don't miss St. Peter's Church, with its stunning architecture and the resting place of Mary Shelley.
To fully enjoy Bournemouth's attractions, beaches, and nearby areas, 2 to 3 days are typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Cambridge to Bournemouth.
Since neither Cambridge nor Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth include Southampton, New Milton, Reading, Brockenhurst, Portsmouth.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge to Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like beaches and nightlife spots. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and stay vigilant in busy public places to ensure safety.
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 Cambridge to Bournemouth

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

Departure train stations in Cambridge
Arrival train stations in Bournemouth

Which Cambridge station do trains to Bournemouth leave from?

Trains from Cambridge to Bournemouth leave from Cambridge. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Cambridge city centre at Cambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW.
CambridgeCambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW+44 8450507080WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Cambridge from Cambridge city centre

Cambridge is 1 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:

BusU1, U2 · 11m · every ~11 min
Tour · 13m · $2
75 · 15m
A · 15m · $2 · every ~11 min

Cambridge train station facilities and services

Cambridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cambridge.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge. ATMs are available at Cambridge.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cambridge.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cambridge: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cambridge: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Cambridge SouthTrumpington, Cambridge CB2 9FQ, UK
Cambridge NorthCambridge North Station, Cowley Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0WZ+44 8450507080WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cambridge North from Cambridge city centre

Cambridge North is 3 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLondon Liverpool Street - Cambridge North, Stansted Airport - Norwich, Cambridge - Norwich, London Liverpool Street - Ely, Stansted Airport - Lowestoft, Cambridge - Cambridge North, Bishops Stortford - Cambridge North, Audley End - Cambridge North, Audley End - Norwich · 3m · $2 · every ~6 min
BusB · 12m · $2 · every ~8 min
114 · 18m
2, B · 23m · $2 · every ~19 min

Cambridge North train station facilities and services

Cambridge North has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cambridge North.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge North.

Tickets and information

Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cambridge North: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cambridge North: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge North: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

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