Plymouth to Southampton train with Great Western Railway

Thu, Jul 16
+ Add return
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
South Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
South Western Railway
Cross Country
Great Western Railway (GWR)
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Plymouth to Southampton

Showing times and prices for Jul 16

Cheapest price

$59

Average price

$104

Fastest journey

3 h 31 m

Average duration

4 h 1 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

202 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Plymouth to Southampton will cost around $104 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $59.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Plymouth for Southampton on Thu, Jul 16, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jul 16 the direct trains cover the 202 km distance in an average of 4 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 31 m .

On Thu, Jul 16 the slowest trains will take 4 h 37 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.

  • Great Western Railway
    8:00 AM4h02
    Plymouth
    12:02 PMSouthampton
    $591One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    6:55 AM4h08
    Plymouth
    11:03 AMSouthampton
    $1141One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    9:15 AM3h47
    Plymouth
    1:02 PMSouthampton
    $1151One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    9:27 AM4h37
    Plymouth
    2:04 PMSouthampton
    $1151One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western Railway
    4:32 AM3h31
    Plymouth
    8:03 AMSouthampton
    $1151One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Plymouth to Southampton

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Plymouth to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $53. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 23m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $53, and a train costs an average of $36.

Distance: 125 miles (202 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$93

Average price

$84

Average price

Cheapest

$54

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 53m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 44m

Average total duration

7h 14m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 27m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Great Western Railway

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 Plymouth to Southampton is a bus with an average price of $84 (€69).

This is compared to other travel options from Plymouth to Southampton:

A bus is $9 (€7) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Plymouth to Southampton costing on average $93 (€76).

The fastest way to travel from Plymouth to Southampton is by train with an average journey time of 3h 23m.

Other travel options to Southampton take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 14m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Plymouth and Southampton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Plymouth to Southampton 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 4m sooner (3h 23m by train vs 3h 27m by car). Tickets start at around $93 (€76) compared to roughly $54 (€44) 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

Plymouth to Southampton train times

The table below shows live departures for Plymouth to Southampton trains for today, Wednesday, July 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountry8:27 AM Plymouth
4h37
1:04 PM Southampton0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry9:27 AM Plymouth
4h37
2:04 PM Southampton0 transfersDirect
Thursday, July 16
Great Western Railway4:32 AM Plymouth
3h31
8:03 AM Southampton0 transfersDirect
South Western Railway6:55 AM Plymouth
4h08
11:03 AM Southampton0 transfersDirect
Great Western Railway8:00 AM Plymouth
4h02
12:02 PM Southampton0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Plymouth to Southampton 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.

Thu
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22

Why should you book Plymouth to Southampton trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) and more offer trains services from Plymouth to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Plymouth to Southampton.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth to Southampton.
  • 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Plymouth to Southampton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth to Southampton.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Plymouth to Southampton.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Plymouth to Southampton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Plymouth to Southampton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $36 (€29) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 125 miles (202 km) distance in 3h 31m.

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
Distance
125 miles (202 km)
Average train duration
3h 23m
Cheapest ticket price
$36 (€29)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 31m
First train
12:12 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Mon
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

Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Plymouth to Southampton trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Plymouth and Southampton from $36 (€29). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
3h 31m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€33)
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

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
4h 36m
Cheapest Price
$81 (€66)
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

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
3h 47m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 44m
Cheapest Price
$203 (€167)
Cross Country frequency
20 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 46m
Cheapest Price
$197 (€162)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
30 a day

Complete guide to Southampton

Things to do in Southampton

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

  • Must visit

SeaCity Museum

Southampton's flagship museum tells the city's story from Roman origins to Titanic and aviation, with strong local collections and family displays.

  • Must visit

Tudor House and Garden

Restored Tudor home and remains of a Norman house reveal centuries of domestic and maritime history in Southampton's atmospheric Old Town.

  • Recommended

Southampton City Art Gallery

Art gallery with a respected collection spanning old masters to contemporary works, plus changing exhibitions in the Cultural Quarter.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels often cost less than London, while dining and local transport are typical for a mid-sized English city.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£2.80-4.20 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Plymouth to Southampton

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Plymouth to Southampton by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Southampton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Plymouth to Southampton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $36 (€29), while the average price is around $93 (€76).
The train from Plymouth to Southampton takes 3h 31m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Plymouth to Southampton leaves at 12:12 AM.
The distance by train from Plymouth to Southampton is 125 miles (202 km).
The last train from Plymouth to Southampton leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Plymouth to Southampton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Plymouth to Southampton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Plymouth to Southampton.
The train station in Plymouth that goes to Southampton is Plymouth station (PLY), which connects to Southampton Central (SOU).
The cheapest way to get from Plymouth to Southampton is by train, with a cost of around $36 (€29).
The train journey from Plymouth to Southampton offers scenic views of the English countryside, passing through areas like the South Devon Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty and along sections of the picturesque Jurassic Coast.
A day trip from Plymouth to Southampton is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 31m. However, trains run 6 times per day. The distance is 125 miles (202 km).
In Southampton, you can explore the New Forest National Park for hiking and wildlife spotting, take the Hythe Ferry for a scenic trip, or shop at Westquay Shopping Centre. Enjoy the vibrant Ocean Village Marina with its dining and leisure options, or relax in Southampton Common. For cultural experiences, visit the Tudor House and Garden, SeaCity Museum, Southampton City Art Gallery, Solent Sky Museum, and catch a performance at the Mayflower Theatre.
To fully explore Southampton, including its maritime attractions, cultural sites, and local experiences, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Plymouth to Southampton.
Since neither Plymouth nor Southampton 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 Southampton include London, Bournemouth, Winchester, Portsmouth, Salisbury.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Plymouth to Southampton 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 Southampton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and near the port. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour operators offering poor services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official ticket vendors for transportation. Staying vigilant in crowded places 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 Plymouth to Southampton

Most Plymouth to Southampton trains use the Plymouth to Southampton Central station pair, with some services arriving at Southampton Airport Parkway. Use this guide to compare Plymouth and Southampton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Plymouth
Arrival train stations in Southampton

Which Plymouth station do trains to Southampton leave from?

Trains from Plymouth to Southampton leave from Plymouth. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Plymouth city centre at Plymouth station, North Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 6AB.
PlymouthPlymouth station, North Road, Plymouth, Devon, PL4 6AB+44 3451652030WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Plymouth from Plymouth city centre

Bus13, 2, 170 · 4m · $2 · every ~11 min

Plymouth train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Plymouth.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Plymouth.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Plymouth: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Plymouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Plymouth: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and the station subway. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Station pay phones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

DockyardDockyard station, Paisley Street, Devonport, Plymouth, Devon, PL2 1RXParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Dockyard from Plymouth city centre

Dockyard is 2 km from Plymouth city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainExeter St Davids - Penzance, Plymouth - Penzance, Plymouth - Gunnislake, Plymouth - Liskeard · 4m · $1 · every ~1 min
Bus33 · 11m · $5 · every ~5 min
33 · 14m · $5 · every ~5 min
70B, 70 · 16m · $2 · every ~3 min
33 · 17m · $5 · every ~5 min
14 · 21m · $5 · every ~3 min

Dockyard train station facilities and services

Dockyard has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Dockyard.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Dockyard: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Dockyard: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Dockyard: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free Category C Station - This station does not have step free access to any platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

DevonportDevonport station, Portland Road, Devonport, Plymouth, Devon, PL1 4QNParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Devonport from Plymouth city centre

Devonport is 2 km from Plymouth city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainExeter St Davids - Penzance, Plymouth - Penzance, Plymouth - Gunnislake, Plymouth - Liskeard · 3m · $1 · every ~2 min
BusDc7 · 8m · $2
Dc7 · 9m · $2
21, 34, 21A · 13m · $5 · every ~23 min

Devonport train station facilities and services

Devonport has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Devonport.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Devonport: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Devonport: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Devonport: Staff help available: No, Step free access note: Step-free category B3 station – “Some step-free access, may be in one direction only.” Step free access possible to South bound platform, there is no step free access for services to Plymouth. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

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