Preston to Southampton train with Avanti West Coast

Sat, Sep 19
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
Caledonian Sleeper
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
Caledonian Sleeper
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Southampton

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

$97

Average ticket price on Sep 19

$146

Fastest journey on Sep 19

5 h 23 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

5 h 37 m

Trains on Sep 19

4

Distance

331 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Preston to Southampton will cost around $146 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $97.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 19, we found 4 trains from Preston to Southampton, including 4 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 331 km distance in an average of 5 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 23 m .

On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 5 h 52 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.

  • CrossCountry
    8:20 AM5h52
    Preston
    2:12 PMSouthampton
    $971One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    9:18 AM5h25
    Preston
    2:43 PMSouthampton
    $1621One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    7:20 AM5h23
    Preston
    12:43 PMSouthampton
    $1621One-way
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West Coast
    7:17 AM5h46
    Preston
    1:03 PMSouthampton
    $1641One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Preston to Southampton

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Preston to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $70 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 2h 52m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $70, while a flight costs an average of $209.

Distance: 205 miles (331 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$187

Average price

$70

Average price

Cheapest

$209

Average price

$104

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 0m

Average total duration

4h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 9m

Average total duration

9h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 52m

Average total duration

Fastest

52m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

4h 42m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.8kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Avanti West Coast

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Loganair

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

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 Preston to Southampton is a bus with an average price of $70.

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

A bus is $117 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Southampton costing on average $187.

A bus is $139 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Preston to Southampton costing on average $209.

The fastest way to travel from Preston to Southampton is by flight with an average journey time of 52m.

Other travel options to Southampton take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 30m.

Bus takes on average 9h 39m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Preston and Southampton including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Preston 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 12m sooner (4h 30m by train vs 4h 42m by car). Tickets start at around $187 compared to roughly $104 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

Preston to Southampton train times

The table below shows live departures for Preston to Southampton trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Avanti West Coast7:17 AM Preston
5h46
1:03 PM Southampton0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry7:20 AM Preston
5h23
12:43 PM Southampton0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry8:20 AM Preston
5h52
2:12 PM Southampton0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry9:18 AM Preston
5h25
2:43 PM Southampton0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Preston to Southampton by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, and flight 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
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

Why should you book Preston to Southampton trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as CrossCountry or Caledonian Sleeper offer trains services from Preston to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Southampton.

Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Southampton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Southampton.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Southampton.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Preston to Southampton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Preston to Southampton run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $63 but you can travel from only $44 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:52, the last at 20:01. The fastest train covers the 205 miles (331 km) distance in 3h 48m.

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 $44
Distance
205 miles (331 km)
Average train duration
4h 30m
Cheapest ticket price
$63
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
3h 48m
First train
4:52 AM
Last train
8:01 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
7 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $44

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Lumo from Preston to Southampton trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Lumo trains will get you between Preston and Southampton from $44. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
3h 48m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$79
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
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 CrossCountry Duration
4h 22m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$63
CrossCountry frequency
2 a day
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

Lumo

About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
4h 27m
Cheapest Lumo Price
$150
Lumo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
Quiet zone

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 Preston to Southampton

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston 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 Preston to Southampton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $63, while the average price is around $187.
The train from Preston to Southampton takes 3h 48m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Preston to Southampton leaves at 4:52 AM.
The distance by train from Preston to Southampton is 205 miles (331 km).
The last train from Preston to Southampton leaves at 8:01 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Southampton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Southampton.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Southampton.
The train station in Preston that goes to Southampton is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Southampton Central (SOU).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Southampton is by bus, with a cost of around $44.
The train journey from Preston to Southampton offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with scenic stretches through the rolling hills of the Cotswolds and glimpses of the picturesque English countryside.
A day trip from Preston to Southampton is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 48m. Trains run 5 times per day, covering a distance of 205 miles (331 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 Preston to Southampton.
Since neither Preston 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Preston 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 Preston to Southampton

Most Preston to Southampton trains use the Preston to Southampton Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Southampton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Preston
Arrival train stations in Southampton

Which Preston station do trains to Southampton leave from?

Trains from Preston to Southampton leave from Preston. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Preston city centre at Fishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
City-centre transport

Getting to Preston from Preston city centre

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

Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · $11 · every ~36 min

Preston train station facilities and services

Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.

Food and drink

Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free. ATMs are available in the train station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.

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