Preston to Southampton train with CrossCountry

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Caledonian Sleeper
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Caledonian Sleeper
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Southampton

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$128

Average price

$193

Fastest journey

4 h 25 m

Average duration

5 h 1 m

Trains per day

5

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 $193 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $128.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Preston to Southampton without transferring at least once.

  • Avanti West CoastW33195+TubeTube from London Euston to London Waterloo+South Western RailwayL80177
    8:59 AM6h02
    Preston station (PRE)
    3:01 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $1281One-way
    2 transfers
  • Avanti West CoastW33252+CrossCountryG01015
    10:17 AM4h25
    Preston station (PRE)
    2:42 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $1621One-way
    1 transfer
  • Avanti West CoastW33141+TubeTube from London Euston to London Waterloo+South Western RailwayL80181
    10:57 AM5h04
    Preston station (PRE)
    4:01 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $1711One-way
    2 transfers
  • Avanti West CoastW33141+TubeTube from London Euston to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayC50046+CrossCountryG01019
    10:57 AM4h47
    Preston station (PRE)
    3:44 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $1711One-way
    3 transfers
  • Avanti West CoastW33141 · W33269+CrossCountryG01019
    10:57 AM4h47
    Preston station (PRE)
    3:44 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $3331One-way
    2 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 prices starting from $39. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 54m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $39, and a flight costs an average of $91.

Distance: 205 miles (331 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$140

Average price

$67

Average price

Cheapest

$164

Average price

$103

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 8m

Average total duration

4h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 3m

Average total duration

7h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 54m

Average total duration

Fastest

54m

Onboard

+

3h 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

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 $67 (€55).

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

A bus is $73 (€60) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Southampton costing on average $140 (€115).

A bus is $97 (€79) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Preston to Southampton costing on average $164 (€134).

The fastest way to travel from Preston to Southampton is by flight with an average journey time of 54m.

Other travel options to Southampton take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 38m.

Bus takes on average 7h 33m.

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 4m sooner (4h 38m by train vs 4h 42m by car). Tickets start at around $140 (€115) compared to roughly $103 (€84) 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, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Avanti West CoastW33195+TubeTube from London Euston to London Waterloo+South Western RailwayL801778:59 AM Preston station (PRE)
6h02
3:01 PM Southampton Central (SOU)2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33252+CrossCountryG01015
On time
10:17 AM Preston station (PRE)
4h25
2:42 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1 transfer
Avanti West CoastW33141+TubeTube from London Euston to London Waterloo+South Western RailwayL8018110:57 AM Preston station (PRE)
5h04
4:01 PM Southampton Central (SOU)2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33141 · W33269+CrossCountryG0101910:57 AM Preston station (PRE)
4h47
3:44 PM Southampton Central (SOU)2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33141+TubeTube from London Euston to London Paddington+CrossCountryG01019+Great Western RailwayC5004610:57 AM Preston station (PRE)
4h47
3:44 PM Southampton Central (SOU)3 transfers

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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Preston to Southampton trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast 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 CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast 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 CrossCountry 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 Avanti West Coast 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 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $58 (€48) but you can travel from only $39 (€32) 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 4h 21m.

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 $39 (€32)
Distance
205 miles (331 km)
Average train duration
4h 38m
Cheapest ticket price
$58 (€48)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
4h 21m
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
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
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 $39 (€32)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper from Preston to Southampton trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Preston and Southampton from $39 (€32). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 25m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€48)
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

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 Duration
4h 21m
Cheapest Price
$116 (€95)
Avanti West Coast frequency
11 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

Caledonian Sleeper

About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 21m
Cheapest Price
$163 (€133)
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
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

Modern city museum focused on Southampton’s maritime history, including the Titanic story and the city’s role as a major port.

  • Must visit

Tudor House and Garden

Restored historic house museum in the Old Town, presenting over 800 years of local history in atmospheric rooms and gardens.

  • Recommended

Solent Sky Museum

Aviation museum with historic aircraft and exhibits on flying boat and regional aviation heritage.

Pound Sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Pub meals and chains are reasonable, while hotels and waterfront dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

Around 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up in taxis. Small tips are optional in cafes, pubs, and for hotel staff.

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 $58 (€48), while the average price is around $140 (€115).
The train from Preston to Southampton takes 4h 21m 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 $39 (€32).
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 4h 21m. 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, with some services arriving at Southampton Airport Parkway. 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.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone