- Recommended
Folkestone Museum
Small local museum covering Folkestone’s history, archaeology, and changing seaside life. A useful first stop for understanding the town.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Canterbury to Folkestone
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
€8
Average ticket price on Sep 18
€8
Fastest journey on Sep 18
43 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
49 m
Trains on Sep 18
3
Distance
23 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Canterbury to Folkestone is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Canterbury to Folkestone will cost around €8 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €8.
Fast trains
On Fri, Sep 18, we found 3 trains from Canterbury to Folkestone, including 3 direct services.
On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 23 km distance in an average of 49 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 43 m .
On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 52 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.
8:40 AM0h52Canterbury9:32 AMFolkestone€81One-way0 transfers- 9:05 AM0h43Canterbury9:48 AMFolkestone€81One-way0 transfers
- 7:40 AM0h52Canterbury8:32 AMFolkestone€91One-way0 transfers
- 9:05 AM0h43Canterbury9:48 AMFolkestone€81One-way0 transfers
- 8:40 AM0h52Canterbury9:32 AMFolkestone€81One-way0 transfers
- 7:40 AM0h52Canterbury8:32 AMFolkestone€91One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Canterbury to Folkestone
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Canterbury to Folkestone among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €9 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 4m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €9, while a train costs an average of €14.
Distance: 14 miles (23 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€14 Average price | €9 Average price Cheapest | €5 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 4m Average total duration Fastest 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 11m Average total duration 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Canterbury to Folkestone is a bus with an average price of €9.
This is compared to other travel options from Canterbury to Folkestone:
A bus is €5 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Canterbury to Folkestone costing on average €14.
The fastest way to travel from Canterbury to Folkestone is by train with an average journey time of 34m.
Other travel options to Folkestone take longer:
Bus takes on average 41m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Canterbury and Folkestone including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Canterbury to Folkestone 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 €14 compared to roughly €5 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-8.26. The journey takes 34m versus 31m 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
Canterbury to Folkestone train times
The table below shows live departures for Canterbury to Folkestone trains for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P90233 · P88995 | On time 8:03 AM Canterbury West (CBW) | 0h46 | 8:49 AM Folkestone West (FKW) | 1 transfer | |
| P86238_P86240 · P85906 | 8:12 AM Canterbury East (CBE) | 0h46 | 8:58 AM Folkestone Central (FKC) | 1 transfer | |
| P85639 · P85894 | On time 8:23 AM Canterbury West (CBW) | 0h36 | 8:59 AM Folkestone West (FKW) | 1 transfer | |
| P86241 · P90246 | On time 8:40 AM Canterbury East (CBE) | 0h52 | 9:32 AM Folkestone Central (FKC) | 1 transfer | |
| P90242_P90346 · P89003 | On time 9:05 AM Canterbury West (CBW) | 0h47 | 9:52 AM Folkestone West (FKW) | 1 transfer | |
| P85648 · P85902 | On time 9:21 AM Canterbury West (CBW) | 0h38 | 9:59 AM Folkestone West (FKW) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Canterbury to Folkestone 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.
Fri
Sep 18
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Why should you book Canterbury to Folkestone trains with Omio?
Southeastern as well as Southeastern offer trains services from Canterbury to Folkestone.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Canterbury to Folkestone.
Why book with Omio vs Southeastern?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Southeastern, but also compare tickets for the likes of Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Canterbury to Folkestone.
- 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 Southeastern with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Canterbury to Folkestone.
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 Canterbury to Folkestone.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Canterbury to Folkestone
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Canterbury to Folkestone run on average 8 times per day, taking around 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €7 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 14 miles (23 km) distance in 26m.
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 14 miles (23 km) |
Average train duration 34m |
Cheapest ticket price €7 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 26m |
First train 12:01 AM |
Last train 11:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 91 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: Southeastern from Canterbury to Folkestone trainsSoutheastern trains will get you between Canterbury and Folkestone from €7. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Southeastern
About
Southeastern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to Kent, Sussex, Surrey and parts of East Anglia. It runs services from early morning until late at night, seven days a week. Southeastern has a range of train types, including high-speed Javelin trains, commuter-friendly Metro services, and the classic InterCity services. Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southeastern are London to Kent, London to Eastbourne, and London to Hastings.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Southeastern Duration
26m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
€7
Southeastern frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Family area
Complete guide to Folkestone
Things to do in Folkestone
Discover the best of Folkestone — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Folkestone trip today.
- Recommended
Folkestone Artworks Visitor Centre
Changing contemporary art exhibitions in a leading regional gallery. Known for ambitious programming and strong links to the town’s creative revival.
- Recommended
Kent Battle of Britain Museum
Volunteer-run military museum in nearby Capel-le-Ferne with artefacts from wartime Kent. Compact but informative for local defence history.
- Must visit
Lower Leas Coastal Park
Clifftop park and promenade with gardens, family spaces, and wide sea views. One of the town’s best walking areas from coast to harbour.
- Must visit
Harbour Arm
Revived harbour promenade with public art, events, and dramatic views over the Channel. A signature place in modern Folkestone.
- Recommended
The Old High Street
Historic hillside lane in the Creative Quarter, lined with independent shops, art spaces, and old buildings. Ideal for a characterful stroll.
- Gluten-free
Dover Sole
Fresh Dover sole landed on the Kent coast, usually grilled or pan-fried. A classic local seafood choice tied to Folkestone’s fishing heritage.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Briny oysters from the nearby Kent coast, often served raw with lemon. They reflect the area’s long shellfish tradition and seaside identity.
Fish And Chips
Lightly battered local fish with chips, a staple of English seaside towns. In Folkestone it is prized for very fresh catch and harbour setting.
The Lobster Shack
Popular casual seafood spot on Folkestone Harbour Arm serving fresh fish, oysters and shellfish with a lively seaside atmosphere.
Marleys
Established harbour restaurant specialising in mussels, fish and Belgian-style dishes. Relaxed, dependable and well known among locals.
Rocksalt
Refined restaurant in The Harbour Arm area known for seasonal small plates and polished cooking in a stylish modern setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town. Hotels and dining are often cheaper than London, but peak-season stays and seafront meals can raise daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is common for good service. Round up taxi fares. Cafe tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Folkestone Central -> The Leas, Folkestone
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Folkestone. Ask the driver for the best fare if you are making more than one trip.
- Folkestone Central is walkable to much of the town centre, but buses are useful for The Leas and seafront areas. Check live departures in the Stagecoach Bus app.
FAQs: Trains from Canterbury to Folkestone
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Canterbury to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Canterbury to Folkestone can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €7, while the average price is around €14.
The train from Canterbury to Folkestone takes 26m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Canterbury to Folkestone is 14 miles (23 km).
The first train from Canterbury to Folkestone leaves at 12:01 AM.
The last train from Canterbury to Folkestone leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Canterbury to Folkestone.
There is no direct train service currently available from Canterbury to Folkestone.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Canterbury to Folkestone.
The train station in Canterbury that goes to Folkestone is Canterbury West (CBW), which connects to Folkestone Central (FKC).
The cheapest way to get from Canterbury to Folkestone is by train, with a cost of around €7.
The Canterbury to Folkestone train journey offers scenic views of the picturesque Kent countryside, featuring rolling hills, charming villages, and glimpses of the coast as you approach Folkestone.
Yes, you can do a day trip from Canterbury to Folkestone. The journey takes 26m, covering a distance of 14 miles (23 km), with a frequency of 5 trips per day for trains.
Two to three days in Folkestone is ideal to explore its coastal attractions, visit the Creative Quarter, and enjoy the local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Canterbury to Folkestone.
Since neither Canterbury nor Folkestone 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 Folkestone include London, Margate, Stratford, Ashford, Broadstairs.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Canterbury to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near the port. Be aware of unofficial taxi services and only use licensed operators to avoid overcharging scams. Additionally, watch out for distractions used by scammers in crowded spots. 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 Canterbury to Folkestone
Most Canterbury to Folkestone trains use the Canterbury West to Folkestone West station pair, with some services arriving at Folkestone Central. Use this guide to compare Canterbury and Folkestone train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Canterbury
Arrival train stations in Folkestone
Which Canterbury station do trains to Folkestone leave from?
Trains from Canterbury to Folkestone leave from Canterbury West. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Canterbury city centre at Canterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN.
Canterbury WestCanterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury West from Canterbury city centre
Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · €3 · every ~22 min
Canterbury West train station facilities and services
Canterbury West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: two within concourse, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Canterbury EastCanterbury East station, Station Road East, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2RB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury East from Canterbury city centre
Bus649 · 9m
Canterbury East train station facilities and services
Canterbury East has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury East.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Canterbury East.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury East. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury East: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury East: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury East: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The Ticket Vending Machines's can only be accessed when the station building is open as they are in the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Folkestone station do trains from Canterbury arrive at?
Trains from Canterbury to Folkestone most often arrive at Folkestone West. Some services arrive at Folkestone Central, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Folkestone arrival station.
Folkestone WestFolkestone West station, Station Approach, off Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3PA+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone West from Folkestone city centre
Folkestone West is 2 km from Folkestone city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRamsgate - St Pancras International, Faversham - St Pancras International, Margate - Ashford International, Ramsgate - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - London Charing Cross, Ramsgate - Ashford International, Dover Priory - Ashford International, Folkestone Central - London Victoria, Dover Priory - London Cannon Street, Faversham - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - St Pancras International, Sandwich - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - London Charing Cross, Folkestone Central - Ashford International, Dover Priory - London Bridge, Ramsgate - London Bridge, Faversham - London Bridge, Dover Priory - Tonbridge, Deal - St Pancras International, Deal - Ashford International · 2m · €1 · every ~5 min
Bus10, 17, 71, 71A · 4m · €3 · every ~21 min
Folkestone West train station facilities and services
Folkestone West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B2. This station has a degree of step-free access to the platform, which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check details - Step Free access to Platform 1 via main entrance off Shorncliffe Road. Step free access to platform 2 via side entrance off Station Road. Step access between platforms via station subway. Step free Interchange between platforms via steep roads is in excess of 500 metres, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: by entrance to platform 1, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Folkestone CentralFolkestone Central station, Station Approach, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 5HB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone Central from Folkestone city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stop outside of the station (exit station, walk down the slope and turn right. Bus stop is just beyond the bridge)
Folkestone Central train station facilities and services
Folkestone Central has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Step free access via lift or steep ramps from main entrance, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: In the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 24 Hours a Day Saturday 24 Hours a Day Sunday 24 Hours a Day, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Canterbury
More options for your journey from Canterbury to Folkestone
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Folkestone and Canterbury
Most popular train connections to Folkestone
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
