Cambridge to Portsmouth train with South Western Railway

Fri, Jul 31
+ Add return
South Western Railway
Thameslink
Great Northern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
Thameslink
Great Northern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cambridge to Portsmouth

Showing times and prices for Jul 31

Cheapest price

$38

Average price

$40

Fastest journey

3 h 15 m

Average duration

3 h 22 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

177 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cambridge to Portsmouth will cost around $40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Cambridge for Portsmouth on Fri, Jul 31, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jul 31 the direct trains cover the 177 km distance in an average of 3 h 22 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 15 m .

On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest trains will take 3 h 31 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
    6:42 AM3h21
    Cambridge
    10:03 AMPortsmouth
    $381One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    8:42 AM3h15
    Cambridge
    11:57 AMPortsmouth
    $411One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    10:12 AM3h31
    Cambridge
    1:43 PMPortsmouth
    $411One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cambridge to Portsmouth

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Portsmouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $26. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 13m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $26, and a bus costs an average of $19.

Distance: 109 miles (177 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$45

Average price

Cheapest

$55

Average price

$47

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 43m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 11m

Average total duration

4h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 42m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

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 Portsmouth is a train with an average price of $45 (€37).

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

A train is $10 (€8) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth costing on average $55 (€45).

The fastest way to travel from Cambridge to Portsmouth is by train with an average journey time of 3h 13m.

Other travel options to Portsmouth take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 41m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cambridge and Portsmouth including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge to Portsmouth 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 $45 (€37) compared to roughly $47 (€39) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $2 (€2). The journey takes 3h 13m versus 2h 42m 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 Portsmouth train times

The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Portsmouth trains for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
South Western Railway12:12 PM Cambridge
3h18
3:30 PM Portsmouth0 transfersDirect
South Western Railway5:10 PM Cambridge
3h20
8:30 PM Portsmouth0 transfersDirect
Friday, July 31
South Western Railway6:42 AM Cambridge
3h21
10:03 AM Portsmouth0 transfersDirect
South Western Railway8:42 AM Cambridge
3h15
11:57 AM Portsmouth0 transfersDirect
South Western Railway10:12 AM Cambridge
3h31
1:43 PM Portsmouth0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cambridge to Portsmouth 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.

Fri
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06

Why should you book Cambridge to Portsmouth trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as Thameslink or Great Northern offer trains services from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Portsmouth.

Why book with Omio vs South Western Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for South Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink or Great Northern to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
  • 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 Cambridge to Portsmouth.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink or Great Northern to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cambridge to Portsmouth.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cambridge to Portsmouth

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cambridge to Portsmouth run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 (€21) but you can travel from only $19 (€15) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:03, the last at 21:44. The fastest train covers the 109 miles (177 km) distance in 3h 15m.

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 $19 (€15)
Distance
109 miles (177 km)
Average train duration
3h 13m
Cheapest ticket price
$26 (€21)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 15m
First train
4:03 AM
Last train
9:44 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
7 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 $19 (€15)

Train companies: South Western Railway, Thameslink, Great Northern from Cambridge to Portsmouth trainsSouth Western Railway, Thameslink, Great Northern trains will get you between Cambridge and Portsmouth from $19 (€15). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

South Western Railway

About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 45m
Cheapest Price
$129 (€106)
Thameslink frequency
15 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 Duration
3h 23m
Cheapest Price
$105 (€86)
Great Northern frequency
10 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 Portsmouth

Things to do in Portsmouth

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

  • Must visit

Mary Rose Museum

World-class museum housing Henry VIII's raised flagship. See the preserved Tudor warship and immersive galleries on life aboard.

  • Must visit

HMS Victory

Museum dedicated to HMS Victory and Nelson's navy. Learn about the Battle of Trafalgar and life in the age of sail.

  • Must visit

HMS Warrior 1860

Historic ironclad from 1860 that changed naval warfare. Explore decks, engine spaces and displays in the Historic Dockyard.

British Pound Sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels often cost less than London, while dining and local transit are mid-range for a coastal city.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£2.80-4 for coffee.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Cambridge to Portsmouth

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cambridge to Portsmouth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $26 (€21), while the average price is around $45 (€37).
The train from Cambridge to Portsmouth takes 3h 15m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Cambridge to Portsmouth leaves at 4:03 AM.
The distance by train from Cambridge to Portsmouth is 109 miles (177 km).
The last train from Cambridge to Portsmouth leaves at 9:44 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Portsmouth is Cambridge station (CBG), which connects to Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS).
The cheapest way to get from Cambridge to Portsmouth is by bus, with a cost of around $19 (€15).
The train journey from Cambridge to Portsmouth offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the English countryside, small towns, and occasional glimpses of the coast near Portsmouth.
A day trip from Cambridge to Portsmouth is not feasible as the travel time is 3h 15m. However, there are 7 train journeys available per day covering a distance of 109 miles (177 km).
Spending two to three days in Portsmouth is generally enough to explore key attractions such as the Historic Dockyard, Spinnaker Tower, and enjoy the vibrant waterfront.
Yes, you can take the train from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
Since neither Cambridge nor Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth include Southampton, Bournemouth, Brighton, Cosham, Havant.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge to Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Historic Dockyard and Gunwharf Quays. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It is advisable to use licensed taxis, keep personal belongings secure, and remain vigilant when approached by strangers offering unsolicited services or deals.
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 Portsmouth

Most Cambridge to Portsmouth trains use the Cambridge to Portsmouth & Southsea station pair, with some services arriving at Portsmouth Harbour. Use this guide to compare Cambridge and Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth

Which Cambridge station do trains to Portsmouth leave from?

Trains from Cambridge to Portsmouth 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 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.

Cambridge SouthTrumpington, Cambridge CB2 9FQ, UK

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