- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Cambridge
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13
Cheapest price on Oct 13
€33
Average ticket price on Oct 13
€55
Fastest journey on Oct 13
3 h 13 m
Average journey duration on Oct 13
3 h 20 m
Trains on Oct 13
5
Distance
178 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Cambridge will cost around €55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €33.
Fast trains
On Tue, Oct 13, we found 5 trains from Southampton to Cambridge, including 5 direct services.
On Tue, Oct 13 the direct trains cover the 178 km distance in an average of 3 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 13 m .
On Tue, Oct 13 the slowest trains will take 3 h 47 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.
8:30 AM3h13Southampton11:43 AMCambridge€331One-way0 transfers- 3:52 AM3h47Southampton7:39 AMCambridge€361One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 AM3h13Southampton12:43 PMCambridge€661One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 AM3h13Southampton12:13 PMCambridge€701One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 AM3h13Southampton11:13 AMCambridge€711One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 AM3h13Southampton12:43 PMCambridge€661One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 AM3h13Southampton12:13 PMCambridge€701One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 AM3h13Southampton11:13 AMCambridge€711One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 AM3h13Southampton11:43 AMCambridge€331One-way0 transfers
- 3:52 AM3h47Southampton7:39 AMCambridge€361One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Cambridge run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 39m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €24 but you can travel from only €19 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 01:27, the last at 23:12. The fastest train covers the 110 miles (178 km) distance in 2h 14m.
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 €19
Distance 110 miles (178 km) |
Average train duration 2h 39m |
Cheapest ticket price €24 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 14m |
First train 1:27 AM |
Last train 11:12 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 14 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 €19
Live departures
Southampton to Cambridge train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Cambridge trains for today, Monday, October 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
L80258+ P66667+ Tube from London Victoria to Tottenham Hale+ G26449 | On time 4:59 PM Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h18 | 8:17 PM Cambridge South | 3 transfers | |
L80258+Tube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross+ X47763 | On time 4:59 PM Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h10 | 8:09 PM Cambridge South | 2 transfers | |
L80258+ W45388+Tube from London Waterloo to London St Pancras International | On time 4:59 PM Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h36 | 8:35 PM Cambridge South | 2 transfers | |
| L80258 · L82704+Tube from Vauxhall to Tottenham Hale+P66667 | On time 4:59 PM Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h18 | 8:17 PM Cambridge South | 3 transfers | |
 G00901+ W34513+W45388+Tube from London Paddington to Farringdon | On time 5:15 PM Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h20 | 8:35 PM Cambridge South | 3 transfers | |
| L80124+Tube from London Waterloo to London Kings Cross+G77082 | On time 5:30 PM Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h09 | 8:39 PM Cambridge South | 2 transfers | |
| Tuesday, October 13 | |||||
| 3:52 AM Southampton | 3h47 | 7:39 AM Cambridge | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:00 AM Southampton | 3h13 | 11:13 AM Cambridge | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:30 AM Southampton | 3h13 | 11:43 AM Cambridge | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:00 AM Southampton | 3h13 | 12:13 PM Cambridge | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:30 AM Southampton | 3h13 | 12:43 PM Cambridge | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Southampton to Cambridge trains with Omio?
South Western Railway as well as CrossCountry or Thameslink offer trains services from Southampton to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Cambridge.
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 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 South Western Railway with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Southampton to Cambridge.
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 to Cambridge.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Cambridge.
Train companies: South Western Railway, Thameslink, CrossCountry from Southampton to Cambridge trainsSouth Western Railway, Thameslink, CrossCountry trains will get you between Southampton and Cambridge from €19. 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
2h 14m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
€24
South Western Railway frequency
4 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 CrossCountry Duration
2h 40m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€89
CrossCountry frequency
1 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 Thameslink Duration
2h 38m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
€89
Thameslink frequency
2 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
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.
- Recommended
Scott Polar Research Institute Museum
Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.
- Recommended
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.
- Must visit
The Backs
The city's most famous riverside walking area, lined with college gardens and views. Classic place for strolling, punting and photography.
- Recommended
Market Square
Historic central square with market stalls, buskers and everyday city life. A practical and lively base for sightseeing and shopping.
- Recommended
Jesus Green
Leafy riverside common ideal for walking, picnics and broad views of the college skyline. Popular with locals and visitors year-round.
- Vegetarian
Cambridge Burnt Cream
A creamy dessert of whipped cream, meringue and raspberry coulis, created at Cambridge’s Trinity College and named after the River Cam.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Trinity Cream
The Cambridge version of crème brûlée, linked to Trinity College. It has a rich custard base with a hard caramelised sugar top.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cambridgeshire Asparagus
Tender local asparagus from the Cambridgeshire fens, prized in spring for its sweetness and freshness, often served simply with butter or eggs.
Midsummer House
Elegant riverside fine dining restaurant known for refined British tasting menus and polished service in a historic setting.
Restaurant Twenty-Two
Historic city-centre restaurant serving modern British cooking with seasonal ingredients in a smart, intimate atmosphere.
The Eagle
Well-known Cambridge pub and dining room offering classic British dishes, cask ales and a lively, traditional atmosphere.
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.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city center
Cambridge Railway Station -> Cambridge City Centre
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless bank cards are accepted on Stagecoach buses in Cambridge; ask the driver for the best fare if unsure.
- Cambridge has no tram or metro. Most local public transport is by bus, and fares can vary by operator and route.
FAQs: Trains from Southampton to Cambridge
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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 Southampton to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €24, while the average price is around €69.
The train from Southampton to Cambridge takes 2h 14m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Southampton to Cambridge leaves at 1:27 AM.
The distance by train from Southampton to Cambridge is 110 miles (178 km).
The last train from Southampton to Cambridge leaves at 11:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Southampton to Cambridge.
There is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Cambridge.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Southampton to Cambridge.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Cambridge is Southampton Central (SOU), which connects to Cambridge South.
The train journey from Southampton to Cambridge offers a variety of scenic views, including charming countryside landscapes, glimpses of historic towns, and stretches along picturesque fields and meadows.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Cambridge.
Popular day trips by train from Cambridge include London, Stevenage, Hitchin, Peterborough, Letchworth Garden City.
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 Southampton to Cambridge
Most Southampton to Cambridge trains use the Southampton Central to Cambridge South station pair, with some services arriving at Cambridge. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Cambridge train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Southampton
Arrival train stations in Cambridge
Which Southampton station do trains to Cambridge leave from?
Trains from Southampton to Cambridge leave from Southampton Central. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Southampton city centre at Southampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · €2 · every ~20 min
Southampton Central train station facilities and services
Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: 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.
Cambridge SouthTrumpington, Cambridge CB2 9FQ, UK
CambridgeCambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge is 1 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
BusU1, U2 · 11m · every ~11 min
Tour · 13m · €2
75 · 15m
A · 15m · €2 · every ~11 min
Cambridge train station facilities and services
Cambridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge. ATMs are available at Cambridge.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cambridge.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Cambridge NorthCambridge North Station, Cowley Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0WZ+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge North from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge North is 3 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Liverpool Street - Cambridge North, Stansted Airport - Norwich, Cambridge - Norwich, London Liverpool Street - Ely, Stansted Airport - Lowestoft, Cambridge - Cambridge North, Bishops Stortford - Cambridge North, Audley End - Cambridge North, Audley End - Norwich · 3m · €2 · every ~6 min
BusB · 12m · €2 · every ~8 min
114 · 18m
2, B · 23m · €2 · every ~19 min
Cambridge North train station facilities and services
Cambridge North has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge North.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge North.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge North: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge North: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge North: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cambridge and Southampton
Most popular train connections to Cambridge
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