The cheapest and fastest trains from London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU)
Cheapest price
$37
Average price
$68
Fastest journey
1 h 14 m
Average duration
1 h 17 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
112 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU) will cost around $68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.
Of the 6 trains that leave London Waterloo (WAT) for Southampton Central (SOU) on Tue, Dec 02, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Dec 02 the direct trains cover the 112 km distance in an average of 1 h 17 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 14 m .
On Tue, Dec 02 the slowest trains will take 1 h 22 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.
L48170
L48304
L48162
L48296
L47467+
C23548
L48170
L48162
L48304
L48296
L47467+
C23548Travel Information
Compare train and bus for London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU)
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the ferry with prices starting from €21. For those with little time consider booking a ferry which can get you there in 44m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a ferry costs an average of €21, and a train costs an average of €16.
Distance: 69 miles (112 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Ferry |
|---|---|---|
€35 Average price | €25 Average price | €21 Average price Cheapest |
2h 29m Average total duration 1h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 18m Average total duration 2h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 44m Average total duration Fastest 44m Onboard + 1h 0m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU) train times
The table below shows live departures for London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU) trains for today, Monday, December 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 3:35 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 1h16 | 4:51 PM Southampton Central (SOU) | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 5:35 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 1h15 | 6:50 PM Southampton Central (SOU) | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 10:33 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 2h08 | 12:41 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, December 2 | |||||
L48296 | On time 8:05 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 1h17 | 9:22 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L47454+ C23546 | On time 8:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 1h23 | 9:43 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 1 transfer | |
L48162 | On time 8:35 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 1h14 | 9:49 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L48304 | On time 9:05 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 1h17 | 10:22 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 0 transfersDirect | |
L47467+ C23548 | On time 9:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 1h22 | 10:42 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 1 transfer | |
L48170 | On time 9:35 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 1h14 | 10:49 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU) by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Why should you book London Waterloo to Southampton Central trains with Omio?
South Western Railway as well as CrossCountry and Southern offer trains services from London Waterloo to Southampton Central. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London Waterloo to Southampton Central.
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 and Southern to find the best option for your trip from London Waterloo to Southampton Central.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare South Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from London Waterloo to Southampton Central.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While South Western Railway tickets can be bought on South Western Railway's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of CrossCountry and Southern to help you choose the right option for your journey from London Waterloo to Southampton Central.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from London Waterloo to Southampton Central.
Journey information
Overview: Train from London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU)
Trains from London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU) run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $20 (€16) but you can travel from only $14 (€11) by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:57, the last at 22:40. The fastest train covers the 69 miles (112 km) distance in 1h 13m.
Distance 69 miles (112 km) |
Average train duration 1h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 (€16) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 1h 13m |
First train 04:57 |
Last train 22:40 |
Train companies: South Western Railway, CrossCountry, Southern from London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU) trainsSouth Western Railway, CrossCountry, Southern trains will get you between London Waterloo (WAT) and Southampton Central (SOU) from $14 (€11). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
South Western Railway
CrossCountry
Southern
Traveling by train from London Waterloo to Southampton Central
The train connection between London Waterloo and Southampton Central is efficient and convenient, making it easy for travelers to explore the vibrant coastal city of Southampton. The journey typically takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, with frequent services provided by South Western Railway, Cross Country, and Southern. Whether you're heading for a day trip or an extended stay, these providers ensure comfortable travel options along this popular route.
Train Connection: London Waterloo to Southampton Central
The train connection from London Waterloo to Southampton Central takes approximately 1 hour and 13 minutes. There are up to 35 connections available each day, all of which are direct services, making travel convenient for passengers.
London Waterloo to Southampton Central
The first daily train from London Waterloo departs at 06:35, providing an early start for travelers heading to the coastal city of Southampton. The last journey of the day leaves at 22:40, allowing late-night arrivals for those wishing to explore after hours.
Train Tickets Price from London Waterloo to Southampton Central
The cheapest ticket price for a train journey between London Waterloo and Southampton Central is £20. The average ticket price typically hovers around £47, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to explore the beautiful coastal city of Southampton from the capital.
Exploring Southampton: A Journey Through Maritime History
Welcome to the Titanic Museum, a poignant tribute to one of history's most infamous maritime disasters. Here, you’ll discover not only the story of the ill-fated ship but also its profound impact on safety regulations and ocean travel that still resonate today. Unique features include interactive exhibits where you can experience what it was like aboard the Titanic and even touch an iceberg!
Next up is SeaCity Museum, which beautifully chronicles Southampton’s rich maritime heritage beyond just the Titanic. This museum highlights how this bustling port city has shaped global trade and exploration while showcasing fascinating artifacts from various eras in seafaring history. Don’t miss their immersive displays that bring stories of local sailors and ships to life through engaging multimedia presentations.
Finally, we arrive at Bargate, a stunning medieval gatehouse that once served as a grand entrance into Southampton during its heyday as a trading hub. Its historical significance lies in its role as both a defensive structure and symbol of civic pride for centuries; today it stands proudly amidst modernity yet retains echoes of its storied past. Be sure to admire unique architectural details such as intricate carvings and watch for events held within this iconic landmark!
FAQs: Trains from London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU)
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU) 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 Central (SOU), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from London Waterloo (WAT) to Southampton Central (SOU)
- Opening hours: Monday - Sunday 24 Hours a Day Tickets bought in advance online or from South Western Railway telesales can be collected at Ticket Office or at Self-Serve Ticket Machines.
- Type of shops available: A wide range of shops including convenience store, supermarket, pharmacy, newsagent, bookseller, clothing, gifts, travel accessories and passport photobooth.
- Car Park: Station Car Park
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: There is step free access from the main concourse to all platforms, shops and facilities. Step free exits are exit 1 (Station approach), exit 2 (with a lift to Waterloo Road and lift access to the London Underground Jubilee line), and exit 3 for taxis and onward travel towards the South Bank.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available from the taxi rank on Cab Road / Station Approach
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket machines are located at various locations on the main concourse and are accessible to wheelchair users.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
- Toilets Location: The entrance to the public toilets is on the main concourse opposite platform 18, and these facilities have an accessible toilet and baby changing facilities. There is a another accessible toilet outside exit 3 operated by a RADAR key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The entrance to the public toilets is on the main concourse opposite platform 18, and these facilities have an accessible toilet and baby changing facilities. There is a another accessible toilet outside exit 3 operated by a RADAR key.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Cycle storage is located outside exit 3 on Station Approach / Cab Road.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
- Onward travel information: Waterloo is well connected to London's public transport network. Waterloo Underground station serves the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City Lines. Plan a journey - Transport for London (tfl.gov.uk) Buses depart from several points around the station. All Transport for London Buses are accessible with step free access and have a dedicated mobility space. Buses from Waterloo (tfl.gov.uk) The station has a dedicated taxi rank for London Black Taxis on the roadway outside exit 3. Santander Hire Bicycles are available from the docking stations outside. Santander Cycles - Transport for London (tfl.gov.uk) Waterloo is within easy walking distance of the South Bank and a number of visitor attractions. Walking - Transport for London (tfl.gov.uk).
- Metro: Waterloo Underground station is served by the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City Lines. Step free access is available to and from the Jubilee Line. For more information on London Transport accessibility: Plan an accessible journey - Transport for London (tfl.gov.uk).
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 20:45 Saturday 06:00 - 20:45 Sunday 06:30 - 20:45
- Car Park: Premium-downside
- Taxi: Yes outside Platform 4 exit
- 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
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located in the Waiting Rooms on Platforms 1 and 4. The National key toilets are located on Platforms 1 and 4; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff upon request. A 'National Key Scheme' key [RADAR] can be purchased by contacting the following. Address: 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF. Tel: 020 7250 3222. Minicom: 020 7250 4119. Fax: 020 7250 0212. Email: [email protected]
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
- Waiting rooms location: All platforms. Waiting rooms are heated and seating complies with Code of Practice.
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platform 1 - 200 spaces Platform 4 - 44 spaces Outside Platform 4 entrance - 4 spaces Outside Platform 1 entrance - A new bike hut with 140 two tier spaces
- Storage CCTV: Yes
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement bus service goes from the north side (Blechynden Terrace) during engineering works. Overnight onward transport goes from the South side (West Quay side)
Most popular train connections from London Waterloo (WAT)
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