PORTSMOUTH to CAMBRIDGE train from CHF13 with Thameslink

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Portsmouth to Cambridge

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29

Cheapest price on Aug 29

CHF34

Average ticket price on Aug 29

CHF35

Fastest journey on Aug 29

3 h 20 m

Average journey duration on Aug 29

3 h 26 m

Trains on Aug 29

Distance

177 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Portsmouth to Cambridge will cost around CHF35 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF34.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Portsmouth to Cambridge without transferring at least once.

L79546+C93349+Tube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross
6:49 AM3h20
Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
10:09 AMCambridge South
CHF341One-way
2 transfers
L79539+C93345+Tube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross
6:19 AM3h20
Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
9:39 AMCambridge South
CHF341One-way
2 transfers
W45700+G26157_C82345
6:33 AM3h32
Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
10:05 AMCambridge South
CHF351One-way
1 transfer
W45731+C82522_C82350
7:04 AM3h31
Portsmouth Harbour (PMH)
10:35 AMCambridge South
CHF351One-way
1 transfer
C02725+C82512_C82341
6:08 AM3h27
Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
9:35 AMCambridge South
CHF351One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Portsmouth to Cambridge

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Portsmouth to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of CHF19 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 47m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of CHF19, while a bus costs an average of CHF28.

Distance: 109 miles (177 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Driving
CHF19 Average price Cheapest	CHF28 Average price	CHF39 Average price (fuel + tolls)
3h 47m Average total duration Fastest 3h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	5h 48m Average total duration 5h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	2h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door)
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest	0.2 - 0.4kg 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 Portsmouth to Cambridge is a train with an average price of CHF19.

This is compared to other travel options from Portsmouth to Cambridge:

A train is CHF8 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Portsmouth to Cambridge costing on average CHF28.

The fastest way to travel from Portsmouth to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 3h 17m.

Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 18m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Cambridge including taking a bus and train.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth to Cambridge 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 CHF19 compared to roughly CHF39 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about CHF20. The journey takes 3h 17m versus 2h 44m 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.

Live departures

Portsmouth to Cambridge train times

The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Cambridge trains for tomorrow, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
C02725+C82512_C82341	6:08 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h27	9:35 AM Cambridge South	1 transfer
L79539+C93345+Tube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross	6:19 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h20	9:39 AM Cambridge South	2 transfers
W45700+G26157_C82345	6:33 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h32	10:05 AM Cambridge South	1 transfer
L79546+Tube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross+C93349	6:49 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)	3h20	10:09 AM Cambridge South	2 transfers
W45731+C82522_C82350	7:04 AM Portsmouth Harbour (PMH)	3h31	10:35 AM Cambridge South	1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Portsmouth to Cambridge 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.

Sat
Aug 29

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Aug 30

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Aug 31

Tue
Sep 01

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Sep 02

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Sep 03

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Sep 04

Why should you book Portsmouth to Cambridge trains with Omio?

Thameslink as well as South Western Railway offer trains services from Portsmouth to Cambridge.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio vs Thameslink?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth to Cambridge.
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 Thameslink with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Portsmouth to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Portsmouth to Cambridge

United Kingdom

Trains from Portsmouth to Cambridge run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF13 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:40, the last at 21:44. The fastest train covers the 109 miles (177 km) distance in 3h 53m.

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

109 miles (177 km)

Average train duration

3h 17m

Cheapest ticket price

CHF13

Trains per day

Fastest train

3h 53m

First train

12:40 AM

Last train

9:44 PM

Cheapest Month

Jun

Cheapest Day

Sun

High Season

Apr - Jun

Low Season

Jul - Sep

Busiest Day

Mon

Least Busy Day

Sat

Best time to book

5 days

Price information

Train companies: Thameslink, South Western Railway from Portsmouth to Cambridge trainsThameslink, South Western Railway trains will get you between Portsmouth and Cambridge from CHF13. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

South Western Railway

About

South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average South Western Railway Duration

3h 53m

Cheapest South Western Railway Price

CHF13

Luggage included

2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages

Cancellation Policy

Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation

Refund

Full refund if train is cancelled by operator

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches

Seat reservation

Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

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

Pets

Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead

Quiet zone

Learn more about South Western Railway

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 Thameslink Duration

3h 31m

Cheapest Thameslink Price

CHF35

Thameslink frequency

4 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

Learn more about Thameslink

Complete guide to Cambridge

Things to do in Cambridge

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

Must visit

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Scott Polar Research Institute Museum

Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.

View on map Visit website

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget: £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
Mid-range: £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: £60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee: £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Portsmouth to Cambridge

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

Train ticket prices from Portsmouth to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at CHF13, while the average price is around CHF19.

The train from Portsmouth to Cambridge takes 3h 53m and runs 7 per day.

The first train from Portsmouth to Cambridge leaves at 12:40 AM.

The distance by train from Portsmouth to Cambridge is 109 miles (177 km).

The last train from Portsmouth to Cambridge leaves at 9:44 PM.

There is no high speed train available from Portsmouth to Cambridge.

There is no direct train service currently available from Portsmouth to Cambridge.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Portsmouth to Cambridge.

The train station in Portsmouth that goes to Cambridge is Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS), which connects to Cambridge station (CBG).

The cheapest way to get from Portsmouth to Cambridge is by train, with a cost of around CHF13.

The train journey from Portsmouth to Cambridge offers a scenic experience with views of the English countryside, charming villages, and occasional glimpses of rivers and historical landmarks, providing a pleasant and picturesque travel experience.

A day trip from Portsmouth to Cambridge is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 53m one way. However, there are 5 trains available per day for this route.

In Cambridge, you can enjoy punting on the River Cam for scenic views, visit the interactive Cambridge Science Centre, explore the historic Market Square, or attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre. Discover the city's rich history on a guided walking tour. Don't miss the stunning King's College Chapel, the art-filled Fitzwilliam Museum, the picturesque Backs, the historic Trinity College, and the tranquil Cambridge University Botanic Garden.

For a fulfilling experience in Cambridge, spending two to three days is ideal to explore its historic colleges, museums, and the picturesque River Cam.

Yes, you can take the train from Portsmouth to Cambridge.

Since neither Portsmouth nor Cambridge 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 Cambridge include London, Stevenage, Hitchin, Peterborough, Letchworth Garden City.

We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. 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 Portsmouth to Cambridge

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

Departure train stations in Portsmouth

Arrival train stations in Cambridge

Which Portsmouth station do trains to Cambridge leave from?

Trains from Portsmouth to Cambridge leave from Portsmouth & Southsea. The station is from Portsmouth city centre at Portsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ.

Portsmouth & SouthseaPortsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Portsmouth & Southsea from Portsmouth city centre

Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation Street bus stop at side of Railway Station near Matalan car park.

Portsmouth & Southsea train station facilities and services

Portsmouth & Southsea has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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 Portsmouth & Southsea.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth & Southsea. ATMs are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth & Southsea.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth & Southsea: 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. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

More about Portsmouth & Southsea

FrattonFratton station, Selbourne Terrace, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 5AW Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Fratton from Portsmouth city centre

Fratton is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainPortsmouth Harbour - London Waterloo, Portsmouth Harbour - Eastleigh, Portsmouth Harbour - Southampton Central, Portsmouth & Southsea - Southampton Central, Portsmouth Harbour - Woking, Portsmouth & Southsea - London Waterloo, Portsmouth Harbour - Guildford, Portsmouth Harbour - Winchester, Portsmouth Harbour - Basingstoke, Portsmouth & Southsea - Woking, Portsmouth Harbour - Woolston, Portsmouth & Southsea - Woolston, Portsmouth Harbour - Petersfield, Portsmouth Harbour - Fareham · 3m · CHF1.00 · every ~10 min

Bus1 · 4m · every ~30 min

13 · 6m · CHF2 · every ~6 min

Fratton train station facilities and services

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