What is the cheapest way to get from London to Dorchester?

The cheapest way to get from London to Dorchester is by bus, with a cost of around €14.

LONDON to DORCHESTER train from €14 with South Western Railway

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The cheapest and fastest trains from London to Dorchester

Showing times and prices for Aug 06

Cheapest price

€51

Average price

€90

Fastest journey

2 h 45 m

Average duration

2 h 58 m

Trains per day

Distance

184 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from London to Dorchester will cost around €90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €51.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave London for Dorchester on Thu, Aug 06, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Aug 06 the direct trains cover the 184 km distance in an average of 2 h 58 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 45 m .

On Thu, Aug 06 the slowest trains will take 3 h 30 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.

L80222
9:05 AM2h45
London Waterloo (WAT)
11:50 AMDorchester South (DCH)
€511One-way
0 transfers
G14937 · C48809 · G15448
9:18 AM4h48
London Paddington (PAD)
2:06 PMDorchester West (DCW)
€941One-way
2 transfers
L80084
8:35 AM2h45
London Waterloo (WAT)
11:20 AMDorchester South (DCH)
€951One-way
0 transfers
L80214
8:05 AM2h45
London Waterloo (WAT)
10:50 AMDorchester South (DCH)
€951One-way
0 transfers
L80092+G01000+G14937
9:18 AM3h04
London Paddington (PAD)
12:22 PMDorchester South (DCH)
€1031One-way
2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from London to Dorchester

United Kingdom

Trains from London to Dorchester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €16 but you can travel from only €14 by bus.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 114 miles (184 km) distance in 2h 29m.

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 €14

Distance

114 miles (184 km)

Average train duration

2h 42m

Cheapest ticket price

€16

Trains per day

Direct trains

Fastest train

2h 29m

First train

12:12 AM

Last train

11:53 PM

Cheapest Month

Jun

Cheapest Day

Fri

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Sat

Least Busy Day

Sun

Best time to book

35 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from €14

Live departures

London to Dorchester train times

The table below shows live departures for London to Dorchester trains for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
L80344	On time 5:18 AM London Waterloo (WAT)	3h21	8:39 AM Dorchester South (DCH)	0 transfersDirect
L80352	6:30 AM London Waterloo (WAT)	3h09	9:39 AM Dorchester South (DCH)	0 transfersDirect
W34780 · C47816	7:02 AM London Paddington (PAD)	3h07	10:09 AM Dorchester West (DCW)	1 transfer
L80360	7:35 AM London Waterloo (WAT)	2h47	10:22 AM Dorchester South (DCH)	0 transfersDirect
L80214	8:05 AM London Waterloo (WAT)	2h45	10:50 AM Dorchester South (DCH)	0 transfersDirect
L80084	8:35 AM London Waterloo (WAT)	2h45	11:20 AM Dorchester South (DCH)	0 transfersDirect
L80222	9:05 AM London Waterloo (WAT)	2h45	11:50 AM Dorchester South (DCH)	0 transfersDirect
G14937+G01000+L80092	On time 9:18 AM London Paddington (PAD)	3h04	12:22 PM Dorchester South (DCH)	2 transfers
G14937 · C48809 · G15448	On time 9:18 AM London Paddington (PAD)	4h48	2:06 PM Dorchester West (DCW)	2 transfers
G27400+L80234	9:20 AM London Victoria (VIC)	3h30	12:50 PM Dorchester South (DCH)	1 transfer
W34788 · C48131	9:34 AM London Paddington (PAD)	2h34	12:08 PM Dorchester West (DCW)	1 transfer
L80092	9:35 AM London Waterloo (WAT)	2h47	12:22 PM Dorchester South (DCH)	0 transfersDirect
L80234	10:05 AM London Waterloo (WAT)	2h45	12:50 PM Dorchester South (DCH)	0 transfersDirect
L80102	10:35 AM London Waterloo (WAT)	2h47	1:22 PM Dorchester South (DCH)	0 transfersDirect
G14979 · G15448	10:36 AM London Paddington (PAD)	3h30	2:06 PM Dorchester West (DCW)	1 transfer
L79355+G15011 · G15449	10:50 AM London Waterloo (WAT)	5h16	4:06 PM Dorchester West (DCW)	2 transfers
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book London to Dorchester trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway or CrossCountry offer trains services from London to Dorchester.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London to Dorchester.

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 Great Western Railway or CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from London to Dorchester.
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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from London to Dorchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway or CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from London to Dorchester.
Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from London to Dorchester.

Train companies: South Western Railway, Great Western Railway, CrossCountry from London to Dorchester trainsSouth Western Railway, Great Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between London and Dorchester from €14. 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 29m

Cheapest Price

€16

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

Learn more about South Western Railway

Great Western Railway

About

Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Duration

2h 54m

Cheapest Price

€52

Luggage included

Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price

Luggage storage

Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats

Cancellation Policy

Refund policies apply as per ticket type

Refund

Full refund if train is cancelled

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes

Seat reservation

Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available

Pets

Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger

Quiet zone

Learn more about Great Western Railway

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

3h 1m

Cheapest Price

€102

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

Learn more about CrossCountry

Complete guide to Dorchester

Things to do in Dorchester

Discover the best of Dorchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dorchester trip today.

Must visit

Dorset Museum & Art Gallery

Modern county museum showcasing Dorset archaeology, geology, literature, and local history through well-curated galleries and family displays.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Shire Hall Museum

Museum in the old courthouse exploring justice, prisons, and civil rights, including the Tolpuddle Martyrs story and historic cells.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Max Gate

National Trust house designed by Thomas Hardy, preserved with original interiors and personal objects reflecting his life and work.

View on map Visit website

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for southern England. Hotels and dining cost more than many UK towns, but buses are affordable and budget meals are easy to find.

Average meal costs

Budget: £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range: £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: £45+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee: £3-4 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Cafes do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from London to Dorchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London to Dorchester 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 Dorchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Train ticket prices from London to Dorchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €16, while the average price is around €45.

The train from London to Dorchester takes 2h 29m and runs 8 per day.

The first train from London to Dorchester leaves at 12:12 AM.

The distance by train from London to Dorchester is 114 miles (184 km).

The last train from London to Dorchester leaves at 11:53 PM.

There is no high speed train available from London to Dorchester.

Yes, there is a direct train from London to Dorchester. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by South Western Railway.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London to Dorchester.

The train station in London that goes to Dorchester is London Waterloo (WAT), which connects to Dorchester South (DCH).

The train journey from London to Dorchester offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the rolling hills and picturesque countryside of Dorset, providing a pleasant and visually appealing experience for travelers.

Yes, you can take the train from London to Dorchester.

Popular day trips by train from Dorchester include Bournemouth, Weymouth, Wareham, Branksome, Christchurch.

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 Dorchester, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and distractions used to steal personal belongings. It's advisable to use licensed transportation, keep valuables secure, and stay aware of surroundings to 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 London to Dorchester

Most London to Dorchester trains use the London Waterloo to Dorchester South station pair, with some services arriving at Dorchester West. Use this guide to compare London and Dorchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in London

Arrival train stations in Dorchester

Which London station do trains to Dorchester leave from?

Trains from London to Dorchester leave from London Waterloo. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from London city centre at London Waterloo station, Station Approach, London, Greater London., SE1 8SW.

London WaterlooLondon Waterloo station, Station Approach, London, Greater London., SE1 8SW+44 3451652030 Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to London Waterloo from London city centre

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

Bus139 · 10m · €2 · every ~27 min

SubwayNorthern · 3m · €1 · every ~86 min

London Waterloo train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at London Waterloo.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at London Waterloo. ATMs are available at London Waterloo.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at London Waterloo. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, 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 London Waterloo: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at London Waterloo: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at London Waterloo: 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.

More about London Waterloo

Clapham JunctionClapham Junction station, St John's Hill, Clapham, Greater London, SW11 2QP Shopping

City-centre transport

Getting to Clapham Junction from London city centre

Clapham Junction is 5 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLondon Victoria - London Bridge, London Victoria - Epsom Downs, London Victoria - Reigate, London Victoria - East Grinstead, London Victoria - West Croydon, London Victoria - Littlehampton, London Victoria - Horsham, London Victoria - Dorking, London Victoria - Sutton, London Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, London Victoria - Eastbourne, London Victoria - Ore, London Victoria - Crystal Palace, London Victoria - Brighton, London Victoria - Selhurst, London Victoria - East Croydon, London Victoria - Arundel, London Victoria - Polegate, London Victoria - Lewes, London Victoria - Chichester, London Victoria - Oxted, London Victoria - Angmering, London Victoria - Hastings, London Victoria - Three Bridges, London Victoria - Epsom, London Victoria - Gatwick Airport, London Victoria - Portsmouth & Southsea, London Victoria - Worthing, London Victoria - Bognor Regis, London Victoria - Streatham Hill, London Victoria - Barnham, London Victoria - Norwood Junction, London Victoria - Redhill, London Victoria - Balham · 7m · €2 · every ~38 min

London Victoria - Norwood Junction, London Victoria - Epsom, London Victoria - Selhurst, London Victoria - Sutton, London Victoria - Brighton, London Victoria - Bognor Regis, London Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, London Victoria - Horsham, London Victoria - Littlehampton, London Victoria - Reigate, London Victoria - Three Bridges, London Victoria - London Bridge, London Victoria - East Croydon, London Victoria - Ore, London Victoria - Hastings, London Victoria - Eastbourne, London Victoria - East Grinstead, London Victoria - Epsom Downs, London Victoria - Dorking, London Victoria - Worthing, London Victoria - West Croydon, London Victoria - Portsmouth & Southsea, London Victoria - Chichester, London Victoria - Gatwick Airport, London Victoria - Streatham Hill, London Victoria - Oxted, London Victoria - Polegate, London Victoria - Barnham, London Victoria - Balham, London Victoria - Lewes, London Victoria - Redhill, London Victoria - Crystal Palace, London Victoria - Angmering, London Victoria - Arundel · 7m · €2 · every ~38 min

London Waterloo - Southampton Central, London Waterloo - Poole, London Waterloo - Bournemouth, London Waterloo - Dorking, London Waterloo - Guildford, London Waterloo - Exeter St Davids, London Waterloo - Salisbury, London Waterloo - Yeovil Junction, London Waterloo - Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo - Woking, London Waterloo - Weymouth, London Waterloo - Farnham, London Waterloo - Reading, London Waterloo - Epsom, London Waterloo - Shepperton, London Waterloo - Hampton Court, London Waterloo - London Waterloo, London Waterloo - Strawberry Hill, London Waterloo - Twickenham, London Waterloo - Basingstoke, London Waterloo - Chessington South, London Waterloo - Alton, London Waterloo - Portsmouth & Southsea, London Waterloo - Gillingham, London Waterloo - Westbury, London Waterloo - Yeovil Pen Mill, London Waterloo - Haslemere, London Waterloo - Weybridge, London Waterloo - Fareham, London Waterloo - Honiton, London Waterloo - Frome, London Waterloo - Fratton, London Waterloo - Leatherhead, London Waterloo - Teddington, London Waterloo - Effingham Junction, London Waterloo - Havant, London Waterloo - Petersfield, London Waterloo - Andover, London Waterloo - Hampton Wick, London Waterloo - Eastleigh, London Waterloo - Winchester, London Waterloo - Wimbledon, London Waterloo - Surbiton, London Waterloo - Southampton Airport Parkway, London Waterloo - Templecombe · 8m · €2 · every ~47 min

Dalston Junction - Clapham Junction · 40m · €11 · every ~8 min

BusN87 · 15m · €25 · every ~5 min

N19 · 22m · €2 · every ~2 min

344 · 47m · €2 · every ~30 min

N31 · 55m · €5 · every ~2 min

Clapham Junction train station facilities and services

Clapham Junction has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.