Luton to Canterbury train with Southeastern

Fri, Jun 19
+ Add return
Southeastern
east_midlands_trains
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Southeastern
east_midlands_trains
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Luton to Canterbury

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$83

Average price

$84

Fastest journey

1 h 38 m

Average duration

1 h 46 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

123 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Luton to Canterbury will cost around $84 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $83.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Luton for Canterbury on Fri, Jun 19, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jun 19 the direct trains cover the 123 km distance in an average of 1 h 46 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 38 m .

On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 1 h 57 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.

  • Southeastern
    5:56 AM1h38
    Luton
    7:34 AMCanterbury
    $831One-way
    0 transfers
  • Southeastern
    7:55 AM1h39
    Luton
    9:34 AMCanterbury
    $831One-way
    0 transfers
  • Southeastern
    4:43 AM1h57
    Luton
    6:40 AMCanterbury
    $841One-way
    0 transfers
  • Southeastern
    10:13 PM2h08
    Luton
    12:21 AMCanterbury
    $841One-way
    0 transfers
  • Southeastern
    5:43 AM1h57
    Luton
    7:40 AMCanterbury
    $841One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Luton to Canterbury

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Luton to Canterbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 28m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $29, and a train costs an average of $32.

Distance: 76 miles (123 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$76

Average price

$39

Average price

Cheapest

$36

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 58m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 28m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 26m

Average total duration

3h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 50m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Southeastern

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 Luton to Canterbury is a bus with an average price of $39 (€32).

This is compared to other travel options from Luton to Canterbury:

A bus is $37 (€30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Luton to Canterbury costing on average $76 (€62).

The fastest way to travel from Luton to Canterbury is by train with an average journey time of 1h 28m.

Other travel options to Canterbury take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 56m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Canterbury including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Luton to Canterbury 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 22m sooner (1h 28m by train vs 1h 50m by car). Tickets start at around $76 (€62) compared to roughly $36 (€30) 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

Luton to Canterbury train times

The table below shows live departures for Luton to Canterbury trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Southeastern4:43 AM Luton
1h57
6:40 AM Canterbury0 transfersDirect
Southeastern5:43 AM Luton
1h57
7:40 AM Canterbury0 transfersDirect
Southeastern5:56 AM Luton
1h38
7:34 AM Canterbury0 transfersDirect
Southeastern7:55 AM Luton
1h39
9:34 AM Canterbury0 transfersDirect
Southeastern8:55 AM Luton
1h39
10:34 AM Canterbury0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Luton to Canterbury 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.

Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25

Why should you book Luton to Canterbury trains with Omio?

Southeastern as well as east_midlands_trains or Thameslink offer trains services from Luton to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Luton to Canterbury.

Why book with Omio vs Southeastern?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Southeastern, but also compare tickets for the likes of east_midlands_trains or Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Luton to Canterbury.
  • 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 Southeastern with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Luton to Canterbury.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Luton to Canterbury

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Luton to Canterbury run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) but you can travel from only $29 (€23) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 05:19, the last at 23:19. The fastest train covers the 76 miles (123 km) distance in 1h 37m.

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 $29 (€23)
Distance
76 miles (123 km)
Average train duration
1h 28m
Cheapest ticket price
$32 (€26)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
1h 37m
First train
5:19 AM
Last train
11:19 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
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 $29 (€23)

Train companies: Southeastern, east_midlands_trains, Thameslink from Luton to Canterbury trainsSoutheastern, east_midlands_trains, Thameslink trains will get you between Luton and Canterbury from $29 (€23). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Southeastern

About
Southeastern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to Kent, Sussex, Surrey and parts of East Anglia. It runs services from early morning until late at night, seven days a week. Southeastern has a range of train types, including high-speed Javelin trains, commuter-friendly Metro services, and the classic InterCity services. Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southeastern are London to Kent, London to Eastbourne, and London to Hastings.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 37m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Family area

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest Price
$96 (€79)
Thameslink frequency
15 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Family area

east_midlands_trains

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 38m
Cheapest Price
$81 (€66)
east_midlands_trains frequency
2 a day

FAQs: Trains from Luton to Canterbury

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Luton to Canterbury can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32 (€26), while the average price is around $76 (€62).
The train from Luton to Canterbury takes 1h 37m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Luton to Canterbury leaves at 5:19 AM.
The distance by train from Luton to Canterbury is 76 miles (123 km).
The last train from Luton to Canterbury leaves at 11:19 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Luton to Canterbury.
There is no direct train service currently available from Luton to Canterbury.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Luton to Canterbury.
The train station in Luton that goes to Canterbury is Luton station (LUT), which connects to Canterbury West (CBW).
The cheapest way to get from Luton to Canterbury is by bus, with a cost of around $29 (€23).
The train journey from Luton to Canterbury offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the English countryside, small towns, and historic landmarks, making it moderately scenic.
Yes, you can do a day trip from Luton to Canterbury. The journey takes 1h 37m and trains run frequently with a frequency of 7 per day. The distance is 76 miles (123 km).
In Canterbury, you can explore the historic streets on a guided walking tour, enjoy a punting tour on the River Stour, and visit the Canterbury Tales attraction. Attend a performance at The Marlowe Theatre or discover the local food scene with a culinary tour. Don't miss the Canterbury Cathedral, St. Augustine's Abbey, and the Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint. Additionally, explore the Canterbury Roman Museum and take a leisurely walk in Westgate Gardens.
To fully experience Canterbury, including its historic sites like Canterbury Cathedral, the Roman Museum, and the charming streets, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Luton to Canterbury.
Since neither Luton nor Canterbury 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 Canterbury include London, Chatham, Dover, Rochester, Ashford.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Luton to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and around popular tourist sites. Scams involving overcharging or unofficial taxi services can also occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed transportation. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps 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 Luton to Canterbury

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

Departure train stations in Luton
Arrival train stations in Canterbury

Which Luton station do trains to Canterbury leave from?

Trains from Luton to Canterbury leave from Luton. The station is from Luton city centre at Luton station, Station Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2LT.
LutonLuton station, Station Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2LTWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton from Luton city centre

Bus17 · 7m · $2 · every ~2 min

Luton train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Luton.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luton: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Luton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station: Step free access via lift to platform 5 only (some trains to Bedford/ the East Midlands) only. Steps to all other platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Luton Airport ParkwayLuton Airport Parkway station, Parkway Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3JWWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton Airport Parkway from Luton city centre

Luton Airport Parkway is 1 km from Luton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCorby - London St Pancras International, Sheffield - London St Pancras International, Nottingham - London St Pancras International, Kettering - London St Pancras International, Wellingborough - London St Pancras International, East Midlands Parkway - London St Pancras International · 2m · $1 · every ~4 min
BusX4, X1, X2, Z, A, X3 · 5m · $5 · every ~41 min
612, X10 · 5m · $1 · every ~2 min
44, 45, 366 · 6m · $2 · every ~2 min
101, 100 · 10m · $5 · every ~7 min

Luton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services

Luton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Luton Airport Parkway.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Luton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Luton Airport Parkway.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton Airport Parkway.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton Airport Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

LeagraveLeagrave station, Compton Avenue, Leagrave, Bedfordshire, LU4 9BAWifiParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Leagrave from Luton city centre

Leagrave is 4 km from Luton city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus6, 7, 6A · 15m · $2 · every ~23 min
4, 6, 7, 6A · 21m · $2 · every ~25 min

Leagrave train station facilities and services

Leagrave has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Leagrave.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Leagrave.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Leagrave.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Leagrave: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Leagrave: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Leagrave: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station. Step free access to southbound platform 1 and northbound platform 4 (via a separate entrance). No step free access to northbound platform 2 or southbound platform 3. Most services call at platforms 1 and 2. The assistance meeting point is Platform 4 next to ticket office, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

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