- Recommended
Folkestone Museum
Small local museum covering Folkestone’s history, archaeology, and changing seaside life. A useful first stop for understanding the town.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Luton to Folkestone
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$87
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$96
Fastest journey on Sep 20
1 h 26 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
1 h 37 m
Trains on Sep 20
7
Distance
142 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Luton to Folkestone is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Luton to Folkestone will cost around $96 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $87.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Luton to Folkestone without transferring at least once.
6:25 PM1h36Luton8:01 PMFolkestone$871One-way1 transfer- 7:25 PM1h37Luton9:02 PMFolkestone$871One-way1 transfer
- 8:25 PM1h36Luton10:01 PMFolkestone$871One-way1 transfer
- 10:35 PM1h26Luton12:01 AMFolkestone$871One-way1 transfer
9:13 PM1h48Luton11:01 PMFolkestone$1061One-way1 transfer
- 10:35 PM1h26Luton12:01 AMFolkestone$871One-way1 transfer
- 6:25 PM1h36Luton8:01 PMFolkestone$871One-way1 transfer
- 8:25 PM1h36Luton10:01 PMFolkestone$871One-way1 transfer
- 7:25 PM1h37Luton9:02 PMFolkestone$871One-way1 transfer
- 9:13 PM1h48Luton11:01 PMFolkestone$1061One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Luton to Folkestone
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Luton to Folkestone among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $42 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 8m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $42, while a train costs an average of $83.
Distance: 88 miles (142 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$83 Average price | $42 Average price Cheapest | $40 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 8m Average total duration Fastest 1h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 10m Average total duration 4h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 4m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Luton to Folkestone is a bus with an average price of $42.
This is compared to other travel options from Luton to Folkestone:
A bus is $41 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Luton to Folkestone costing on average $83.
The fastest way to travel from Luton to Folkestone is by train with an average journey time of 1h 38m.
Other travel options to Folkestone take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Folkestone including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Luton to Folkestone 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 26m sooner (1h 38m by train vs 2h 4m by car). Tickets start at around $83 compared to roughly $40 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.
Compare prices and tickets Luton to Folkestone 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.
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Why should you book Luton to Folkestone trains with Omio?
Southeastern operates all trains services from Luton to Folkestone.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Luton to Folkestone.
Why book with Omio vs Southeastern?
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Luton to Folkestone.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Luton to Folkestone.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Luton to Folkestone
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Luton to Folkestone run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $45 but you can travel from only $35 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:40, the last at 23:04. The fastest train covers the 88 miles (142 km) distance in 1h 18m.
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 $35
Distance 88 miles (142 km) |
Average train duration 1h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $45 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 1h 18m |
First train 4:40 AM |
Last train 11:04 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 7 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $35
Train companies: Southeastern from Luton to Folkestone trainsSoutheastern trains will get you between Luton and Folkestone from $35. 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 Southeastern Duration
1h 18m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
$45
Southeastern frequency
4 a day
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
Complete guide to Folkestone
Things to do in Folkestone
Discover the best of Folkestone — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Folkestone trip today.
- Recommended
Folkestone Artworks Visitor Centre
Changing contemporary art exhibitions in a leading regional gallery. Known for ambitious programming and strong links to the town’s creative revival.
- Recommended
Kent Battle of Britain Museum
Volunteer-run military museum in nearby Capel-le-Ferne with artefacts from wartime Kent. Compact but informative for local defence history.
- Must visit
Lower Leas Coastal Park
Clifftop park and promenade with gardens, family spaces, and wide sea views. One of the town’s best walking areas from coast to harbour.
- Must visit
Harbour Arm
Revived harbour promenade with public art, events, and dramatic views over the Channel. A signature place in modern Folkestone.
- Recommended
The Old High Street
Historic hillside lane in the Creative Quarter, lined with independent shops, art spaces, and old buildings. Ideal for a characterful stroll.
- Gluten-free
Dover Sole
Fresh Dover sole landed on the Kent coast, usually grilled or pan-fried. A classic local seafood choice tied to Folkestone’s fishing heritage.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Briny oysters from the nearby Kent coast, often served raw with lemon. They reflect the area’s long shellfish tradition and seaside identity.
Fish And Chips
Lightly battered local fish with chips, a staple of English seaside towns. In Folkestone it is prized for very fresh catch and harbour setting.
The Lobster Shack
Popular casual seafood spot on Folkestone Harbour Arm serving fresh fish, oysters and shellfish with a lively seaside atmosphere.
Marleys
Established harbour restaurant specialising in mussels, fish and Belgian-style dishes. Relaxed, dependable and well known among locals.
Rocksalt
Refined restaurant in The Harbour Arm area known for seasonal small plates and polished cooking in a stylish modern setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town. Hotels and dining are often cheaper than London, but peak-season stays and seafront meals can raise daily costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is common for good service. Round up taxi fares. Cafe tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Folkestone Central -> The Leas, Folkestone
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Folkestone. Ask the driver for the best fare if you are making more than one trip.
- Folkestone Central is walkable to much of the town centre, but buses are useful for The Leas and seafront areas. Check live departures in the Stagecoach Bus app.
FAQs: Trains from Luton to Folkestone
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Luton to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Luton to Folkestone can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $45, while the average price is around $83.
The train from Luton to Folkestone takes 1h 18m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Luton to Folkestone leaves at 4:40 AM.
The distance by train from Luton to Folkestone is 88 miles (142 km).
The last train from Luton to Folkestone leaves at 11:04 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Luton to Folkestone.
There is no direct train service currently available from Luton to Folkestone.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Luton to Folkestone.
The train station in Luton that goes to Folkestone is Luton station (LUT), which connects to Folkestone West (FKW).
The cheapest way to get from Luton to Folkestone is by bus, with a cost of around $35.
The train journey from Luton to Folkestone offers a mix of urban and rural views, with scenic countryside visible as the train passes through regions like the Kent Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
Yes, a day trip from Luton to Folkestone is feasible with a journey time of 1h 18m and a distance of 88 miles (142 km). Trains run 6 times per day.
Two to three days in Folkestone is ideal to explore its coastal attractions, visit the Creative Quarter, and enjoy the local cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Luton to Folkestone.
Since neither Luton nor Folkestone 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 Folkestone include London, Canterbury, Margate, Stratford, Ashford.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Luton to Folkestone 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 Folkestone, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near the port. Be aware of unofficial taxi services and only use licensed operators to avoid overcharging scams. Additionally, watch out for distractions used by scammers in crowded spots. Staying alert 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 Luton to Folkestone
Most Luton to Folkestone trains use the Luton to Folkestone West station pair, with some services arriving at Folkestone Central. Use this guide to compare Luton and Folkestone 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 Folkestone
Which Luton station do trains to Folkestone leave from?
Trains from Luton to Folkestone 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 2LT
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.
Which Folkestone station do trains from Luton arrive at?
Trains from Luton to Folkestone most often arrive at Folkestone West. Some services arrive at Folkestone Central, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Folkestone arrival station.
Folkestone WestFolkestone West station, Station Approach, off Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3PA+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone West from Folkestone city centre
Folkestone West is 2 km from Folkestone city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRamsgate - St Pancras International, Faversham - St Pancras International, Margate - Ashford International, Ramsgate - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - London Charing Cross, Ramsgate - Ashford International, Dover Priory - Ashford International, Folkestone Central - London Victoria, Dover Priory - London Cannon Street, Faversham - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - St Pancras International, Sandwich - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - London Charing Cross, Folkestone Central - Ashford International, Dover Priory - London Bridge, Ramsgate - London Bridge, Faversham - London Bridge, Dover Priory - Tonbridge, Deal - St Pancras International, Deal - Ashford International · 2m · $1 · every ~5 min
Bus10, 17, 71, 71A · 4m · $4 · every ~21 min
Folkestone West train station facilities and services
Folkestone West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B2. This station has a degree of step-free access to the platform, which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check details - Step Free access to Platform 1 via main entrance off Shorncliffe Road. Step free access to platform 2 via side entrance off Station Road. Step access between platforms via station subway. Step free Interchange between platforms via steep roads is in excess of 500 metres, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: by entrance to platform 1, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Folkestone CentralFolkestone Central station, Station Approach, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 5HB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone Central from Folkestone city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stop outside of the station (exit station, walk down the slope and turn right. Bus stop is just beyond the bridge)
Folkestone Central train station facilities and services
Folkestone Central has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Folkestone Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Step free access via lift or steep ramps from main entrance, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: In the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 24 Hours a Day Saturday 24 Hours a Day Sunday 24 Hours a Day, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Luton
More options for your journey from Luton to Folkestone
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Folkestone and Luton
Most popular train connections to Folkestone
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