Ipswich to Southampton train with South Western Railway

Mon, Jun 01
+ Add return
South Western Railway
Greater Anglia
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
Greater Anglia
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Ipswich to Southampton

Showing times and prices for Jun 01

Cheapest price

$47

Average price

$104

Fastest journey

3 h 8 m

Average duration

3 h 13 m

Trains per day

11

Distance

219 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Ipswich to Southampton will cost around $104 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $47.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Ipswich to Southampton without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Greater AngliaP67253+TubeTube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+South Western RailwayL80262
    10:53 AM3h29
    Ipswich station (IPS)
    2:22 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $471One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greater AngliaC04686+TubeTube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+South Western RailwayL80254
    9:53 AM3h29
    Ipswich station (IPS)
    1:22 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $621One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greater AngliaP01244+TubeTube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+South Western RailwayL80110
    9:41 AM3h10
    Ipswich station (IPS)
    12:51 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $621One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greater AngliaP01261+TubeTube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+South Western RailwayL80128
    11:41 AM3h08
    Ipswich station (IPS)
    2:49 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $771One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greater AngliaP01252+TubeTube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+South Western RailwayL80120
    10:41 AM3h08
    Ipswich station (IPS)
    1:49 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $771One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Ipswich to Southampton

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Ipswich to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $39. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 3m. 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 $39, and a bus costs an average of $48.

Distance: 136 miles (219 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$67

Average price

Cheapest

$77

Average price

$56

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 33m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 38m

Average total duration

6h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 13m

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 Ipswich to Southampton is a train with an average price of $67 (€54).

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

A train is $10 (€8) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Ipswich to Southampton costing on average $77 (€62).

The fastest way to travel from Ipswich to Southampton is by train with an average journey time of 3h 3m.

Other travel options to Southampton take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 8m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ipswich and Southampton including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Ipswich 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 10m sooner (3h 3m by train vs 3h 13m by car). Tickets start at around $67 (€54) compared to roughly $56 (€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

Ipswich to Southampton train times

The table below shows live departures for Ipswich to Southampton trains for today, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
South Western Railway8:11 AM Ipswich
3h49
12:00 PM Southampton0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Ipswich 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
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07

Why should you book Ipswich to Southampton trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as Greater Anglia offer trains services from Ipswich to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ipswich 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 Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Southampton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Ipswich to Southampton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Ipswich to Southampton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 (€31) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:49, the last at 21:41. The fastest train covers the 136 miles (219 km) distance in 3h 7m.

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
136 miles (219 km)
Average train duration
3h 3m
Cheapest ticket price
$39 (€31)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 7m
First train
4:49 AM
Last train
9:41 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
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, Greater Anglia from Ipswich to Southampton trainsSouth Western Railway, Greater Anglia trains will get you between Ipswich and Southampton from $39 (€31). 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 7m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€31)
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

Greater Anglia

About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 40m
Cheapest Price
$156 (€125)
Greater Anglia frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
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

Modern city museum focused on Southampton’s maritime history, including the Titanic story and the city’s role as a major port.

  • Must visit

Tudor House and Garden

Historic house museum revealing over 800 years of local history, with restored rooms, exhibitions, and a peaceful garden.

  • Recommended

Solent Sky Museum

Aviation museum with historic aircraft, including the famous Supermarine Spitfire, which was developed in Southampton.

Pound Sterling

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

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-12 for takeaway or fast food.
Mid-range
GBP 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not already included. Round up for taxis. Tipping is optional in cafes and pubs.

FAQs: Trains from Ipswich to Southampton

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Southampton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $39 (€31), while the average price is around $67 (€54).
The train from Ipswich to Southampton takes 3h 7m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Ipswich to Southampton is 136 miles (219 km).
The first train from Ipswich to Southampton leaves at 4:49 AM.
The last train from Ipswich to Southampton leaves at 9:41 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Ipswich to Southampton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Ipswich to Southampton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Ipswich to Southampton.
The train station in Ipswich that goes to Southampton is Ipswich station (IPS), which connects to Southampton Central (SOU).
The cheapest way to get from Ipswich to Southampton is by train, with a cost of around $39 (€31).
The train journey from Ipswich to Southampton offers a mix of urban landscapes and glimpses of the English countryside, with views of rolling hills and quaint villages along parts of the route, although it is not typically highlighted as a particularly scenic journey.
A day trip from Ipswich to Southampton is not feasible as the travel time is 3h 7m each way. There are 6 trains 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 Ipswich to Southampton.
Since neither Ipswich 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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Southampton

Ipswich
Southampton
The major train station for departures in Ipswich is Ipswich. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Ipswich for your trip from Ipswich to Southampton.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:00 - 21:20 Saturday 05:00 - 21:20 Sunday 07:20 - 22:00
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent Passport Photo Booth
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Premium Bay
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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: Yes
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Toilets including accessible (radar key) toilets are located alongside platform 2
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets,Male toilets
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Close to platform 1
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Ipswich
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement transport stop at bus stop on station forecourt.

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone