Portsmouth to Canterbury train with Southern

Fri, Nov 13
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Southern
South Western Railway
Southeastern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Southern
South Western Railway
Southeastern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Portsmouth to Canterbury

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 13
Cheapest price on Nov 13
$41
Average ticket price on Nov 13
$42
Fastest journey on Nov 13
4 h 24 m
Average journey duration on Nov 13
4 h 42 m
Trains on Nov 13
3
Distance
161 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Portsmouth to Canterbury will cost around $42 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $41.

Fast trains

On Fri, Nov 13, we found 3 trains from Portsmouth to Canterbury, including 3 direct services.

On Fri, Nov 13 the direct trains cover the 161 km distance in an average of 4 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 24 m .

On Fri, Nov 13 the slowest trains will take 4 h 55 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.

  • Southern
    0 transfers
  • Southern
    0 transfers
  • Southern
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Portsmouth to Canterbury

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Portsmouth to Canterbury run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $34 but you can travel from only $23 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 21:23. The fastest train covers the 100 miles (161 km) distance in 2h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $23
Distance
100 miles (161 km)
Average train duration
3h 26m
Cheapest ticket price
$34
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
2h 53m
First train
4:30 AM
Last train
9:23 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
28 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 $23

Frequently asked questions about your Portsmouth to Canterbury trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Portsmouth to Canterbury.

Train ticket prices from Portsmouth to Canterbury can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $34, while the average price is around $68.
The train from Portsmouth to Canterbury takes 2h 53m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Portsmouth to Canterbury is 100 miles (161 km).
The first train from Portsmouth to Canterbury leaves at 4:30 AM.
The last train from Portsmouth to Canterbury leaves at 9:23 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Portsmouth to Canterbury.

Live departures

Portsmouth to Canterbury train times

The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Canterbury trains for tomorrow, Friday, November 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Southern6:33 AM Portsmouth
4h46
11:19 AM Canterbury0 transfersDirect
Southern6:55 AM Portsmouth
4h24
11:19 AM Canterbury0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Portsmouth to Canterbury trains with Omio?

Southern as well as South Western Railway or Southeastern offer trains services from Portsmouth to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Canterbury.

Why book with Omio vs Southern?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Southern, but also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway or Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth to Canterbury.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Southern with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Portsmouth to Canterbury.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

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

Train companies: Southern, South Western Railway, Southeastern from Portsmouth to Canterbury trainsSouthern, South Western Railway, Southeastern trains will get you between Portsmouth and Canterbury from $23. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Southern

About
Southern Rail is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local commuter services. Its trains include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, and Class 444 and 450. It also offers a variety of ticket types, such as Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southern Rail are London to Brighton, London to Southampton, and London to Portsmouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Southern Duration
3h 18m
Cheapest Southern Price
$34
Southern frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require a 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 South Western Railway Duration
2h 53m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
$52
South Western Railway frequency
3 a day
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

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
3h 14m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
$43
Southeastern frequency
1 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Portsmouth and Canterbury

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Portsmouth to Canterbury.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Portsmouth to Canterbury.
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.

Complete guide to Canterbury

Things to do in Canterbury

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

  • Recommended

The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge

Interactive museum inside a medieval church telling the story of Canterbury’s Roman, medieval, and modern past. Ideal first stop for context.

  • Recommended

Canterbury Roman Museum

Underground remains of a Roman townhouse with mosaics and hypocaust. A compact but memorable look at Roman Canterbury beneath the streets.

  • Recommended

The Canterbury Tales

Story-led museum on medieval pilgrimage inspired by Chaucer. It brings Canterbury’s most famous journeying tradition to life.

British Pound (£)

Moderate for UK travel. Hotels and dining cost less than London, but tourist-season stays and central restaurants raise prices. Local buses are reasonable.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£50+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included at restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxis: round up or add 5-10%. Cafes: optional small change.

Plan your visit to Canterbury

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Canterbury.

The train journey from Portsmouth to Canterbury offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the rolling countryside of the South Downs and along parts of the Kent coastline, providing a pleasant visual experience.
Popular day trips by train from Canterbury include London, Chatham, Dover, Rochester, Ashford.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Canterbury, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and around popular tourist sites. Scams involving overcharging or unofficial taxi services can also occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed transportation. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

FAQs: Trains from Portsmouth to Canterbury

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

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Portsmouth to Canterbury.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Portsmouth to Canterbury

Most Portsmouth to Canterbury trains use the Portsmouth & Southsea to Canterbury West station pair, with some services arriving at Canterbury East. Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Canterbury 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 Canterbury

Which Portsmouth station do trains to Canterbury leave from?

Trains from Portsmouth to Canterbury 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 1EQWifiParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
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.

FrattonFratton station, Selbourne Terrace, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 5AWWifiShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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 · $2 · every ~10 min
Bus1 · 4m · every ~30 min
13 · 6m · $3 · 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.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Fratton.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Fratton.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Fratton. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 5282100.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Fratton: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Fratton: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Fratton: 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, 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.

Portsmouth HarbourPortsmouth Harbour station, The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3PAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Portsmouth Harbour from Portsmouth city centre

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

TrainLondon Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Littlehampton - Portsmouth Harbour, Three Bridges - Portsmouth Harbour, Barnham - Portsmouth Harbour, Gatwick Airport - Portsmouth Harbour, Havant - Portsmouth Harbour, Bognor Regis - Portsmouth Harbour · 3m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · $3 · every ~214 min

Portsmouth Harbour train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth Harbour.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth Harbour. ATMs are available at Portsmouth Harbour.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth Harbour.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth Harbour: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - Steps or 20m ramp (approx. 1:11 gradient) to main entrance, or steps to side entrance. 32m ramp (gradient up to 1:8) from Wightlink IoW ferry terminal. Level access to all platforms. Stepped footbridge between platforms is also available. Please be aware that this station has no 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.

Train stations for Portsmouth to Canterbury

Check train stations information for Portsmouth and Canterbury, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Portsmouth that goes to Canterbury is Portsmouth & Southsea, which connects to Canterbury West.

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