- Must visit
SeaCity Museum
Southampton's flagship museum tells the city's story from Roman origins to Titanic and aviation, with strong local collections and family displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chelmsford to Southampton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€28
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€28
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 35 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
3 h 35 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
160 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chelmsford to Southampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chelmsford to Southampton will cost around €28 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €28.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Chelmsford to Southampton, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 160 km distance in an average of 3 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 35 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 3 h 35 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.
7:59 AM3h35Chelmsford11:34 AMSouthampton€281One-way0 transfers
- 7:59 AM3h35Chelmsford11:34 AMSouthampton€281One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Chelmsford to Southampton
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chelmsford to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €50 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 46m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €50, while a train costs an average of €50.
Distance: 99 miles (160 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
€50 Average price Cheapest | €34 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 46m Average total duration Fastest 2h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 27m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chelmsford to Southampton is a train with an average price of €50.
The fastest way to travel from Chelmsford to Southampton is by train with an average journey time of 2h 16m.
Yes, you can take a train between Chelmsford and Southampton.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford to Southampton among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 11m sooner (2h 16m by train vs 2h 27m by car). Tickets start at around €50 compared to roughly €34 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Chelmsford to Southampton train times
The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Southampton trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 C04020+ C37366+ G00999+ W34870 | On time 8:11 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h32 | 10:43 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 3 transfers | |
C04020+L80103+ Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo | On time 8:11 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 3h38 | 11:49 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 2 transfers | |
| P66967+L80243+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo | On time 8:55 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 3h26 | 12:21 PM Southampton Central (SOU) | 2 transfers | |
| F21173+C37385+G01002+W34875 | On time 9:11 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h32 | 11:43 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 3 transfers | |
| F21173+L80111+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo | On time 9:11 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 3h38 | 12:49 PM Southampton Central (SOU) | 2 transfers | |
| P01198+C38256+G01006+W34762 | On time 9:54 AM Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h49 | 12:43 PM Southampton Central (SOU) | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chelmsford to Southampton by train
Compare 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.
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Sep 20
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Why should you book Chelmsford to Southampton trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Elizabeth line or South Western Railway offer trains services from Chelmsford to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford to Southampton.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Elizabeth line or South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Chelmsford to Southampton.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Elizabeth line or South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Chelmsford to Southampton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Southampton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chelmsford to Southampton run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €33 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:49, the last at 23:23. The fastest train covers the 99 miles (160 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
Distance 99 miles (160 km) |
Average train duration 2h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price €33 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 1h 58m |
First train 4:49 AM |
Last train 11:23 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 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: South Western Railway, CrossCountry, Elizabeth line from Chelmsford to Southampton trainsSouth Western Railway, CrossCountry, Elizabeth line trains will get you between Chelmsford and Southampton from €33. 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 11m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
€33
South Western Railway frequency
5 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
1h 58m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€54
CrossCountry frequency
1 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
Elizabeth line
About
Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Elizabeth line Duration
2h 32m
Cheapest Elizabeth line Price
€81
Elizabeth line frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available through TfL website or customer service
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
No dedicated dining car. Passengers can bring their own food and drinks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at most stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Guide dogs welcome
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Southampton
Things to do in Southampton
Discover the best of Southampton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southampton trip today.
- Must visit
Tudor House and Garden
Restored Tudor home and remains of a Norman house reveal centuries of domestic and maritime history in Southampton's atmospheric Old Town.
- Recommended
Southampton City Art Gallery
Art gallery with a respected collection spanning old masters to contemporary works, plus changing exhibitions in the Cultural Quarter.
- Must visit
Old Town
Historic quarter enclosed by medieval walls, packed with lanes, pubs, museums, and merchant houses that showcase Southampton's oldest character.
- Must visit
Southampton Common
Large central park popular for walks, events, and city views, linking major cultural venues with green space in the heart of Southampton.
- Recommended
East Park
Leafy Victorian park with formal gardens, memorials, and broad lawns. It is ideal for a break between museums and shopping streets.
- Gluten-free
Solent Oysters
A fresh oyster from nearby Hampshire waters, long linked to the Solent coast and traditionally eaten raw with lemon.
Fish And Chips
White fish coated in beer batter and fried, then served with chips. A classic British seaside meal popular in Southampton pubs and takeaways.
Hampshire Sausages
Hampshire pork sausages, often made with local meat and served with mash. A hearty pub staple across Southampton and the wider county.
Dancing Man Brewery
Well-regarded craft brewery and taproom pouring local beers in a casual industrial space with a strong local following.
The Jetty
Refined modern British dining in a smart, intimate setting. Best known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service.
The Duke Of Wellington
Historic pub in the old town serving cask ales and classic British dishes in a traditional, atmospheric setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels often cost less than London, while dining and local transport are typical for a mid-sized English 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
- £2.80-4.20 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
Bluestar
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Southampton Central -> Above Bar Street, Southampton
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Bluestar buses, including tap on and tap off for adult fares.
- Southampton has no tram or metro system; local public transport is mainly buses and trains.
FAQs: Trains from Chelmsford to Southampton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford to Southampton 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 Southampton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chelmsford to Southampton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €33, while the average price is around €50.
The train from Chelmsford to Southampton takes 1h 58m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Chelmsford to Southampton is 99 miles (160 km).
The first train from Chelmsford to Southampton leaves at 4:49 AM.
The last train from Chelmsford to Southampton leaves at 11:23 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chelmsford to Southampton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Chelmsford to Southampton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chelmsford to Southampton.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Southampton is Chelmsford station (CHM), which connects to Southampton Central (SOU).
The cheapest way to get from Chelmsford to Southampton is by train, with a cost of around €33.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Southampton offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of the English countryside, small towns, and glimpses of the South Downs National Park as the train approaches Southampton.
A day trip from Chelmsford to Southampton is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 58m. However, there are 6 trains available per day. The distance between the two cities is 99 miles (160 km).
In Southampton, you can explore the New Forest National Park for hiking and wildlife spotting, take the Hythe Ferry for a scenic trip, or shop at Westquay Shopping Centre. Enjoy the vibrant Ocean Village Marina with its dining and leisure options, or relax in Southampton Common. For cultural experiences, visit the Tudor House and Garden, SeaCity Museum, Southampton City Art Gallery, Solent Sky Museum, and catch a performance at the Mayflower Theatre.
To fully explore Southampton, including its maritime attractions, cultural sites, and local experiences, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Chelmsford to Southampton.
Since neither Chelmsford nor Southampton 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 Southampton include London, Bournemouth, Winchester, Portsmouth, Salisbury.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chelmsford to Southampton 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 Southampton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and near the port. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour operators offering poor services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official ticket vendors for transportation. Staying vigilant in crowded places 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 Chelmsford to Southampton
Most Chelmsford to Southampton trains use the Chelmsford to Southampton Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Southampton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chelmsford
Arrival train stations in Southampton
Which Chelmsford station do trains to Southampton leave from?
Trains from Chelmsford to Southampton leave from Chelmsford. The station is from Chelmsford city centre at Chelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT.
ChelmsfordChelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chelmsford from Chelmsford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement transport stop at the bus stop on Victoria Road by station entrance
Chelmsford train station facilities and services
Chelmsford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chelmsford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chelmsford. ATMs are available at Chelmsford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chelmsford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chelmsford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chelmsford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chelmsford: 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.
Which Southampton station do trains from Chelmsford arrive at?
Trains from Chelmsford to Southampton arrive at Southampton Central. Southampton Central is 0 miles (1 km) from Southampton city centre.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · €2 · every ~20 min
Southampton Central train station facilities and services
Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Chelmsford
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Southampton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Southampton and Chelmsford
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