Southampton to Canterbury train with South Western Railway

Mon, Nov 02
+ Add return
South Western Railway
Southern
Southeastern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
Southern
Southeastern
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Canterbury

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
Cheapest price on Nov 02
€24
Average ticket price on Nov 02
€68
Fastest journey on Nov 02
3 h 4 m
Average journey duration on Nov 02
3 h 7 m
Trains on Nov 02
25
Distance
178 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Southampton to Canterbury will cost around €68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €24.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Southampton to Canterbury without transferring at least 2 times.

  • SouthernG88629 · C09932 · W32598+SoutheasternP85695
    3 transfers
  • SouthernG88618 · C09936 · W32579+SoutheasternP85689
    3 transfers
  • SouthernG88594 · C09935 · W32584+SoutheasternP85677
    3 transfers
  • SouthernG88570 · C09937 · W32581+SoutheasternP85663
    3 transfers
  • SouthernG88557 · G77157 · W32619+SoutheasternP85653
    3 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Southampton to Canterbury

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Southampton to Canterbury run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €35 but you can travel from only €17 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:52, the last at 22:23. The fastest train covers the 110 miles (178 km) distance in 2h 25m.

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 €17

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance110 miles (178 km)
  • Average train duration3h 4m
  • Cheapest ticket price€35
  • Trains per day8
  • Fastest train2h 25m
  • First train4:52 AM
  • Last train10:23 PM
  • Cheapest MonthSep
  • Cheapest DayMon
  • High SeasonJan - Mar
  • Low SeasonApr - Jun
  • Busiest DaySat
  • Least Busy DayFri
  • Best time to book5 days

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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 €17

Frequently asked questions about your Southampton to Canterbury trip

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

Train ticket prices from Southampton to Canterbury can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €35, while the average price is around €76.
The train from Southampton to Canterbury takes 2h 25m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Southampton to Canterbury leaves at 4:52 AM.
The distance by train from Southampton to Canterbury is 110 miles (178 km).
The last train from Southampton to Canterbury leaves at 10:23 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Canterbury.

Live departures

Southampton to Canterbury train times

The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Canterbury trains for today, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
SoutheasternP87957+South Western RailwaySW810700+London OvergroundW04916+South Western RailwayQ75505
Delayed
9:22 AM 6:34 AMSouthampton Central (SOU)
4h34
11:08 AM Canterbury East (CBE)
3 transfers
SouthernSN873600 · G88572 · C82360_C82534 · SN184600
On time
7:06 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
6h13
1:19 PM Canterbury West (CBW)
5 transfers
South Western RailwaySW810500 · L79925+London OvergroundW04928+SoutheasternP879617:34 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h34
12:08 PM Canterbury East (CBE)3 transfers
SouthernSN873500 · G88578 · SN871500 · W290628:06 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
5h28
1:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)5 transfers
SouthernSN873400 · G88584 · SN871400 · W290589:06 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
5h28
2:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)5 transfers
SoutheasternP87977+South Western RailwayL80138+London OvergroundW04943+Great Western RailwayGW2642009:10 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h58
1:08 PM Canterbury East (CBE)3 transfers
SoutheasternP87982+South Western RailwaySW810100 · L80158+London OvergroundW04955
On time
9:56 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h12
2:08 PM Canterbury East (CBE)
3 transfers
SouthernSN873300 · G88590 · SN871300 · W2912910:06 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
5h28
3:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)5 transfers
South Western RailwaySW808100 · L79943+SoutheasternP87998+London OvergroundW04964
On time
10:34 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h34
3:08 PM Canterbury East (CBE)
3 transfers
SouthernSN873200 · G88596 · SN871200 · W2906811:06 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
5h28
4:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)5 transfers
South Western RailwaySW809900 · L80180+SoutheasternP88003+London OvergroundW04979
On time
11:56 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h12
4:08 PM Canterbury East (CBE)
3 transfers
SouthernSN873100 · G88602 · SN871100 · W2914712:06 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
5h28
5:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)5 transfers
South Western RailwaySW809800 · L80184+SoutheasternP88017+London OvergroundW0499112:56 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h12
5:08 PM Canterbury East (CBE)3 transfers
SouthernSN873000 · G88608 · SN871000 · W290911:06 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
5h28
6:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)5 transfers
South Western RailwaySW801200 · L79961+SoutheasternP88022+London OvergroundW05000
On time
1:34 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h34
6:08 PM Canterbury East (CBE)
3 transfers
SouthernSN872900 · G88614 · SN870900 · W291302:06 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
5h28
7:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)5 transfers
South Western RailwayL80200+SoutheasternP88039+South Western RailwaySW809600+London OvergroundW05015
Delayed
3:32 PM 2:56 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
4h12
7:08 PM Canterbury East (CBE)
3 transfers
SouthernSN872800 · G88620 · SN870800 · W290563:06 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
5h28
8:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)5 transfers
South Western RailwaySW809500 · L80212+SoutheasternP88043+London OvergroundW05027
On time
3:56 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h12
8:08 PM Canterbury East (CBE)
3 transfers
SouthernSN872700 · G88626 · SN870700 · W328134:06 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
5h28
9:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)5 transfers
South Western RailwaySW809400 · L80232+SoutheasternP88060+London OvergroundW05039
On time
4:56 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h12
9:08 PM Canterbury East (CBE)
3 transfers
SouthernSN872600 · G88631 · SN870600 · W291015:06 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
5h28
10:34 PM Canterbury West (CBW)5 transfers
South Western RailwaySW800800 · L79985+SoutheasternP88065+London OvergroundW050485:34 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
4h34
10:08 PM Canterbury East (CBE)3 transfers
SouthernSN872500 · G88637 · C82470 · SN1830006:06 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
6h13
12:19 AM Canterbury West (CBW)5 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Southampton to Canterbury trains with Omio?

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

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 Southern or Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Southampton 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 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 Canterbury.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

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

Train companies

Train companies from Southampton to Canterbury

Trains from Southampton to Canterbury with South Western Railway, Southeastern, and Southern. High-speed trains available on this route with Southeastern. Regional trains available on this route with South Western Railway, Southeastern, and Southern. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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 31m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
€38
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

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 39m
Cheapest Southern Price
€35
Southern frequency
2 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

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
2h 25m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
€35
Southeastern frequency
3 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 Southampton 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 Southampton to Canterbury.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Southampton 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 Southampton to Canterbury offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of the English countryside, charming villages, and glimpses of historic towns.
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 Southampton to Canterbury

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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 Southampton to Canterbury.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Southampton to Canterbury

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

Which Southampton station do trains to Canterbury leave from?

Trains from Southampton to Canterbury 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 0650WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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.

RedbridgeRedbridge station, Station Road, Redbridge, Hampshire, SO15 0NBWifiParkingDiningLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Redbridge from Southampton city centre

Redbridge is 4 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainWeymouth - London Waterloo, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - London Waterloo · 1h 53m · €61 · every ~4 min
Bus032 · 4h 40m · €22 · every ~3 min
SubwayCentral · 2h 52m · €87 · every ~30 min

Redbridge train station facilities and services

Redbridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Redbridge.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Redbridge.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Redbridge: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Redbridge: Bike Parking.

Train stations for Southampton to Canterbury

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

The train station in Southampton that goes to Canterbury is Southampton Central, which connects to Canterbury West.

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