- Must visit
Turner Contemporary
Major contemporary gallery on the seafront inspired by J. M. W. Turner. Essential for modern art, sea views, and Margate's creative revival.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Luton to Margate
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Luton to Margate among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $25. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 29m. 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 $25, and a train costs an average of $37.
Distance: 84 miles (136 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$88 Average price | $37 Average price Cheapest | $42 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 59m Average total duration Fastest 2h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 18m Average total duration 4h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular train company |  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 Margate is a bus with an average price of $37.
This is compared to other travel options from Luton to Margate:
A bus is $51 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Luton to Margate costing on average $88.
The fastest way to travel from Luton to Margate is by train with an average journey time of 2h 29m.
Other travel options to Margate take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Margate including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Luton to Margate among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $88 compared to roughly $42 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-46.06. The journey takes 2h 29m versus 2h 11m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Luton to Margate 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 Luton to Margate trains with Omio?
Southeastern as well as Thameslink or east_midlands_trains offer trains services from Luton to Margate.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Luton to Margate.
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 Thameslink or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Luton to Margate.
- 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 Margate.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Thameslink or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Luton to Margate.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Luton to Margate.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Luton to Margate
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Luton to Margate run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 but you can travel from only $25 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:33, the last at 22:44. The fastest train covers the 84 miles (136 km) distance in 2h 13m.
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 $25
Distance 84 miles (136 km) |
Average train duration 2h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $37 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 13m |
First train 4:33 AM |
Last train 10:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 42 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 $25
Train companies: Southeastern, Thameslink, east_midlands_trains from Luton to Margate trainsSoutheastern, Thameslink, east_midlands_trains trains will get you between Luton and Margate from $25. 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
2h 13m
Cheapest Price
$37
Southeastern frequency
7 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
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
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$107
Thameslink frequency
1 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
2h 12m
Cheapest Price
$87
east_midlands_trains frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Margate
Things to do in Margate
Discover the best of Margate — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Margate trip today.
- Must visit
Shell Grotto
Intriguing underground passage decorated with shell mosaics. Part museum, part mystery, and one of Margate's best-known heritage sites.
- Recommended
Margate Museum
Small local museum telling Margate's social and seaside history through photographs, objects, and changing volunteer-led displays.
- Must visit
Margate Main Sands
Margate's sandy main beach beside the old harbour. Ideal for classic seaside views, sunsets, and easy access to the old town.
- Must visit
Margate Old Town
Characterful historic quarter with narrow lanes, independent shops, and galleries. The best area for wandering and finding local charm.
- Recommended
Margate Harbour Arm
Revived harbour promenade with sea views, public art, and space to stroll. Especially lively during events and summer evenings.
- Gluten-free
Kent Oysters
Fresh Pacific and North Sea oysters are a classic Kent coast treat, prized in nearby Whitstable and commonly enjoyed in Margate for their briny local character.
Fish And Chips
Beer-battered local fish with chips is a staple seaside meal in Margate, tied to the town’s harbour culture and traditional British coastal dining.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Ashmore Farmhouse Cheese
This Kent cheese is a soft washed-rind cow’s milk cheese from the region, often served on local menus and valued for its rich, pungent flavour.
Angela's
A popular old-town restaurant known for modern British cooking, seasonal plates and a relaxed bistro atmosphere near the seafront.
Sargasso
A well-regarded seafood restaurant with refined sharing plates, natural wine and a stylish dining room close to Margate’s harbour.
Forts Cafe
A respected coffee roastery and cafe serving specialty coffee, brunch and pastries in a bright, contemporary space.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town. Rooms and dining cost less than London, but summer stays and tourist areas can raise hotel, cafe, and local transport prices.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 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
- £3-4.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Margate Railway Station -> Margate Old Town, Margate
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Thanet; you can usually tap on board for adult fares.
- Margate town centre is walkable from Margate Railway Station, but the Thanet Loop bus is useful for the seafront and nearby areas.
FAQs: Trains from Luton to Margate
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Luton to Margate 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 Margate, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Luton to Margate can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37, while the average price is around $88.
The train from Luton to Margate takes 2h 13m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Luton to Margate leaves at 4:33 AM.
The distance by train from Luton to Margate is 84 miles (136 km).
The last train from Luton to Margate leaves at 10:44 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Luton to Margate.
There is no direct train service currently available from Luton to Margate.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Luton to Margate.
The train station in Luton that goes to Margate is Luton station (LUT), which connects to Margate station (MAR).
The cheapest way to get from Luton to Margate is by bus, with a cost of around $25.
The train journey from Luton to Margate offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the English countryside, rolling hills, and glimpses of the Thames River as the train approaches Margate.
A day trip from Luton to Margate is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 13m. However, there are 6 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 84 miles (136 km).
To fully experience Margate, including its beaches, art scene, and historical attractions, a stay of 2-3 days is ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Luton to Margate.
Since neither Luton nor Margate 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 Margate include London, Canterbury, Whitstable, Ramsgate, Ashford.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Luton to Margate 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 Margate, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the seafront and markets. Be cautious of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed providers to avoid overcharging. Additionally, watch out for scams involving street vendors selling counterfeit goods or overpriced souvenirs. 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 Margate
Most Luton to Margate trains use the Luton to Margate station pair. Use this guide to compare Luton and Margate 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 Margate
Which Luton station do trains to Margate leave from?
Trains from Luton to Margate 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.
Luton Airport ParkwayLuton Airport Parkway station, Parkway Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3JW
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 9BA
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.
Which Margate station do trains from Luton arrive at?
Trains from Luton to Margate arrive at Margate. Margate is 0 miles (1 km) from Margate city centre.
MargateMargate station, Station Approach, Margate, Kent, CT9 5AD+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Margate from Margate city centre
Margate is 1 km from Margate city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus942, 944, 36, 8 · 8m · $4 · every ~7 min
Margate train station facilities and services
Margate has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Margate.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Margate.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Margate. 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 Margate: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Margate: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Margate: 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 from booking hall to platform 1 for services towards Ramsgate. Step free access to all other platforms and interchange via lifts. Stepped access to platforms 2,3 and 4 via subway, 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: station forecourt, 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 Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Luton
More options for your journey from Luton to Margate
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Margate and Luton
Most popular train connections to Margate
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