Colchester to Southampton train with South Western Railway

Mon, Jul 06
+ Add return
South Western Railway
CrossCountry
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
CrossCountry
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Colchester to Southampton

Showing times and prices for Jul 06

Cheapest price

$123

Average price

$123

Fastest journey

3 h 14 m

Average duration

3 h 14 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

194 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Colchester to Southampton will cost around $123 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $123.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Colchester for Southampton on Mon, Jul 06, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Jul 06 the direct trains cover the 194 km distance in an average of 3 h 14 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 14 m .

On Mon, Jul 06 the slowest trains will take 3 h 14 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.

  • Greater Anglia
    8:33 AM3h14
    Colchester
    11:47 AMSouthampton
    $1231One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greater Anglia
    9:33 AM3h14
    Colchester
    12:47 PMSouthampton
    $1231One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Colchester to Southampton

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $51. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 21m. 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 bus costs an average of $51, and a train costs an average of $59.

Distance: 120 miles (194 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$119

Average price

$65

Average price

Cheapest

$55

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 51m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 45m

Average total duration

5h 15m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 53m

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

This is compared to other travel options from Colchester to Southampton:

A bus is $54 (€44) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Colchester to Southampton costing on average $119 (€97).

The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Southampton is by train with an average journey time of 2h 21m.

Other travel options to Southampton take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 15m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Southampton including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester 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 32m sooner (2h 21m by train vs 2h 53m by car). Tickets start at around $119 (€97) compared to roughly $55 (€45) 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

Colchester to Southampton train times

The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Southampton trains for tomorrow, Monday, July 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greater Anglia8:33 AM Colchester
3h14
11:47 AM Southampton0 transfersDirect
Greater Anglia9:33 AM Colchester
3h14
12:47 PM Southampton0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Colchester to Southampton 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
Jul 06
Tue
Jul 07
Wed
Jul 08
Thu
Jul 09
Fri
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12

Why should you book Colchester to Southampton trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as CrossCountry offer trains services from Colchester to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester to Southampton.

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 CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Colchester 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.
  • 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 Colchester to Southampton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Colchester to Southampton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Colchester to Southampton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $59 (€49) but you can travel from only $51 (€42) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:52, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 120 miles (194 km) distance in 2h 43m.

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 $51 (€42)
Distance
120 miles (194 km)
Average train duration
2h 21m
Cheapest ticket price
$59 (€49)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 43m
First train
4:52 AM
Last train
10:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
1 day
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $51 (€42)

Train companies: South Western Railway, CrossCountry from Colchester to Southampton trainsSouth Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Colchester and Southampton from $51 (€42). 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
2h 49m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€49)
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 Duration
2h 43m
Cheapest Price
$123 (€101)
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

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

SeaCity Museum

Southampton’s maritime museum, covering the city’s links to the Titanic and local port history through interactive displays.

  • Must visit

Tudor House and Garden

A restored historic house museum in the Old Town, presenting over 800 years of Southampton history in period rooms.

  • Recommended

Solent Sky Museum

Aviation museum focused on Southampton’s flying-boat and aircraft heritage, with historic planes and engineering exhibits.

Pound sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Pubs and casual dining are reasonable, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a standard coffee.

Tipping culture

Service charge may be added in restaurants; if not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up taxis. Tipping is not expected for pubs, but small tips are appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Colchester to Southampton

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Colchester to Southampton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $59 (€49), while the average price is around $119 (€97).
The train from Colchester to Southampton takes 2h 43m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Colchester to Southampton leaves at 4:52 AM.
The distance by train from Colchester to Southampton is 120 miles (194 km).
The last train from Colchester to Southampton leaves at 10:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Colchester to Southampton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Colchester to Southampton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Colchester to Southampton.
The train station in Colchester that goes to Southampton is Colchester station (COL), which connects to Southampton Central (SOU).
The cheapest way to get from Colchester to Southampton is by bus, with a cost of around $51 (€42).
The train journey from Colchester to Southampton offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through picturesque landscapes in Essex and Hampshire, with views of the countryside and occasional glimpses of coastal areas.
A day trip from Colchester to Southampton is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 43m, exceeding the 120-minute limit. The distance is 120 miles (194 km) with 5 train trips available per day.
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 Colchester to Southampton.
Since neither Colchester 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester 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 Colchester to Southampton

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

Departure train stations in Colchester
Arrival train stations in Southampton

Which Colchester station do trains to Southampton leave from?

Trains from Colchester to Southampton leave from Colchester. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Colchester city centre at Colchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD.
ColchesterColchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD+44 8450507080WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Colchester from Colchester city centre

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

TrainClacton-on-Sea - London Liverpool Street, Clacton-on-Sea - Colchester, Colchester Town - London Liverpool Street, Colchester Town - Colchester, Walton-on-the-Naze - Colchester · 8m · $1 · every ~5 min
Bus2A, 68, 87, 53, 53A, 52, 51, X20 · 6m · $2 · every ~31 min

Colchester train station facilities and services

Colchester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Colchester.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Colchester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Colchester: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Colchester: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester: 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.

Colchester TownColchester Town station, St. Botolphs Circus, Colchester, Essex, CO2 7EFWifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Colchester Town from Colchester city centre

Bus43 · 1m · $1 · every ~1 min
68, 55, 68A · 1m · $4 · every ~4 min

Colchester Town train station facilities and services

Colchester Town has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Colchester Town.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Colchester Town.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Colchester Town. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Colchester Town: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Colchester Town: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester Town: 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, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Hythe (Essex)Hythe station, Station Road, Hythe, Essex, CO2 8JRParkingAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Hythe (Essex) from Colchester city centre

Hythe (Essex) is 1 km from Colchester city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainColchester - Clacton-on-Sea, Colchester - Walton-on-the-Naze · 4m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus54 · 7m · $1 · every ~11 min
54 · 11m · $4 · every ~11 min

Hythe (Essex) train station facilities and services

Hythe (Essex) has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Hythe (Essex): Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Hythe (Essex): Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Hythe (Essex): Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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