Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport train with South Western Railway

Sun, Jun 21
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South Western Railway
CrossCountry
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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South Western Railway
CrossCountry
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$30

Average price

$53

Fastest journey

3 h 19 m

Average duration

3 h 33 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

130 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport will cost around $53 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Southampton Central (SOU) for London Luton Airport on Sun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 130 km distance in an average of 3 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 19 m .

On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 3 h 49 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.

  • South Western Railway
    8:15 AM3h49
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    12:04 PMLondon Luton Airport
    $301One-way
    0 transfers
  • South Western Railway
    7:26 AM3h31
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    10:57 AMLondon Luton Airport
    $411One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    9:15 AM3h19
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    12:34 PMLondon Luton Airport
    $871One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $20, and a train costs an average of $29.

Distance: 80 miles (130 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$64

Average price

$38

Average price

Cheapest

$35

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 48m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 12m

Average total duration

3h 42m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 49m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

South Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport is a bus with an average price of $38 (€31).

This is compared to other travel options from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport:

A bus is $26 (€21) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport costing on average $64 (€52).

The fastest way to travel from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport is by train with an average journey time of 2h 18m.

Other travel options to London Luton Airport take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 42m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton Central (SOU) and London Luton Airport including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport 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 $64 (€52) compared to roughly $35 (€29) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-28.10 (€-22.99). The journey takes 2h 18m versus 1h 49m 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

Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport train times

The table below shows live departures for Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
South Western RailwayL79325+ThameslinkX64013 · TL286500+CrossCountryG00850
Delayed
5:57 AM 6:15 AMSouthampton Central (SOU)
3h45
10:00 AM London Luton Airport (LUA)
6 transfers
South Western RailwayL78748+ThameslinkX64012 · TL286400+MetroLuton Dart6:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h00
10:30 AM London Luton Airport (LUA)4 transfers
South Western RailwayL78748+ThameslinkX63949 · TL233000+MetroLuton Dart6:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h46
10:16 AM London Luton Airport (LUA)5 transfers
South Western RailwayL80484+ThameslinkX64011 · TL286300+TubeTube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross
On time
7:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h00
11:00 AM London Luton Airport (LUA)
4 transfers
ThameslinkX64011 · TL286300+CrossCountryG00852+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross
Delayed
8:27 AM 7:15 AMSouthampton Central (SOU)
3h45
11:00 AM London Luton Airport (LUA)
5 transfers
South Western RailwayL80349+ThameslinkX63947 · TL232800+MetroLuton Dart
On time
7:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h46
11:16 AM London Luton Airport (LUA)
4 transfers
South Western RailwayL80187+ThameslinkX64009 · TL286100+MetroLuton Dart8:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h00
12:00 PM London Luton Airport (LUA)4 transfers
South Western RailwayL80187+SouthernG26388+TubeTube from London Victoria to Finsbury Park+ThameslinkX639468:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h46
11:46 AM London Luton Airport (LUA)5 transfers
CrossCountryG00856+South Western RailwayL79348+SouthernG27389+TubeTube from London Victoria to Finsbury Park
On time
8:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h45
12:00 PM London Luton Airport (LUA)
6 transfers
South Western RailwayL80357+TubeTube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross+ThameslinkX63945 · TL232600
On time
8:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h46
12:16 PM London Luton Airport (LUA)
4 transfers
South Western RailwayL80191+SouthernG26394+TubeTube from London Victoria to Finsbury Park+ThameslinkX63944
On time
9:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h46
12:46 PM London Luton Airport (LUA)
5 transfers
South Western RailwayL80191+TubeTube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross+ThameslinkX64007 · TL285900
On time
9:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h00
1:00 PM London Luton Airport (LUA)
4 transfers
CrossCountryG00859+Great Western RailwayY15273+TubeTube from London Paddington to London Kings Cross+ThameslinkX64007
On time
9:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h45
1:00 PM London Luton Airport (LUA)
5 transfers
South Western RailwayL80066+TubeTube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross+ThameslinkX63943 · TL2324009:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h46
1:16 PM London Luton Airport (LUA)4 transfers
South Western RailwayL80197+SouthernG26401+TubeTube from London Victoria to Finsbury Park+ThameslinkX63942
On time
10:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h46
1:46 PM London Luton Airport (LUA)
5 transfers
South Western RailwayL80197+TubeTube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross+ThameslinkX64005 · TL277700
On time
10:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h00
2:00 PM London Luton Airport (LUA)
4 transfers
ThameslinkX64005 · TL277700+CrossCountryG00862+MetroLuton Dart
Delayed
11:27 AM 10:15 AMSouthampton Central (SOU)
3h45
2:00 PM London Luton Airport (LUA)
5 transfers
South Western RailwayL80070+ThameslinkX63941 · TL232200+MetroLuton Dart
On time
10:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h46
2:16 PM London Luton Airport (LUA)
4 transfers
South Western RailwayL80203+TubeTube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross+ThameslinkX64003 · TL277100
On time
11:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h00
3:00 PM London Luton Airport (LUA)
4 transfers
South Western RailwayL80203+ThameslinkX63940 · TL232100+MetroLuton Dart
On time
11:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h46
2:46 PM London Luton Airport (LUA)
5 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport 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.

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 Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or Thameslink offer trains services from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport.

Why book with Omio vs South Western Railway?

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

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport run on average 10 times per day, taking around 2h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) but you can travel from only $20 (€17) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 13:00. The fastest train covers the 80 miles (130 km) distance in 2h 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 $20 (€17)
Distance
80 miles (130 km)
Average train duration
2h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
$29 (€24)
Trains per day
10
Fastest train
2h 48m
First train
4:55 AM
Last train
1:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
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 $20 (€17)

Train companies: South Western Railway, CrossCountry, Thameslink from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport trainsSouth Western Railway, CrossCountry, Thameslink trains will get you between Southampton Central (SOU) and London Luton Airport from $20 (€17). 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 Duration
2h 48m
Cheapest Price
$29 (€24)
South Western Railway frequency
8 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

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
2h 52m
Cheapest Price
$87 (€71)
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

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 Duration
4h 13m
Cheapest Price
$74 (€61)
Thameslink frequency
1 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

FAQs: Trains from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport 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 London Luton Airport, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29 (€24), while the average price is around $64 (€52).
The train from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport takes 2h 48m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport is 80 miles (130 km).
The first train from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport leaves at 4:55 AM.
The last train from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport leaves at 1:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport.
There is no direct train service currently available from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport.
The cheapest way to get from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport is by bus, with a cost of around $20 (€17).
The train journey from Southampton Central to London Luton Airport offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including glimpses of the English countryside and small towns, but it is not typically considered one of the UK's most scenic routes.
A day trip from Southampton Central to London Luton Airport is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 48m. However, there are 10 trains per day, covering a distance of 80 miles (130 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport.
Since neither Southampton Central (SOU) nor London Luton Airport 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 London Luton Airport include London, Bedford, St Albans, Nottingham, Leicester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport 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.
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 Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport

Southampton
London
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 20:45 Saturday 06:00 - 20:45 Sunday 06:30 - 20:45
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Premium-downside
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Yes outside Platform 4 exit
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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 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: Yes
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located in the Waiting Rooms on Platforms 1 and 4. The National key toilets are located on Platforms 1 and 4; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff upon request. A 'National Key Scheme' key [RADAR] can be purchased by contacting the following. Address: 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF. Tel: 020 7250 3222. Minicom: 020 7250 4119. Fax: 020 7250 0212. Email: [email protected]
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: All platforms. Waiting rooms are heated and seating complies with Code of Practice
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Platform 1 - 200 spaces Platform 4 - 44 spaces Outside Platform 4 entrance - 4 spaces Outside Platform 1 entrance - A new bike hut with 140 two tier spaces
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Southampton Central
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement bus service goes from the north side (Blechynden Terrace) during engineering works. Overnight onward transport goes from the South side (West Quay side)

More options for your journey from Southampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from London Luton Airport and Southampton Central (SOU)

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomTrain Times to London Luton AirportSouthampton Central (SOU) to London Luton Airport train

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