Southampton to Inverness train with London North Eastern Railway

Sat, Sep 19
+ Add return
London North Eastern Railway
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
London North Eastern Railway
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Inverness

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

$193

Average ticket price on Sep 19

$196

Fastest journey on Sep 19

11 h 42 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

12 h 5 m

Trains on Sep 19

3

Distance

754 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Southampton to Inverness will cost around $196 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $193.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 19, we found 3 trains from Southampton to Inverness, including 3 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 754 km distance in an average of 12 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 11 h 42 m .

On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 12 h 27 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.

  • London North Eastern Railway
    8:00 AM12h05
    Southampton
    8:05 PMInverness
    $1931One-way
    0 transfers
  • London North Eastern Railway
    10:00 AM11h42
    Southampton
    9:42 PMInverness
    $1971One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    10:15 AM12h27
    Southampton
    10:42 PMInverness
    $1991One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Southampton to Inverness

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Inverness among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $119 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 1m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $119, while a flight costs an average of $322.

Distance: 468 miles (754 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

$285

Average price

$322

Average price

$119

Average price

Cheapest

$210

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

10h 37m

Average total duration

10h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 1m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 1m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

16h 12m

Average total duration

15h 42m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 34m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

London North Eastern Railway

Most popular train company

easyJet

Most popular airline

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Southampton to Inverness is a bus with an average price of $119.

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

A bus is $166 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Inverness costing on average $285.

A bus is $203 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Southampton to Inverness costing on average $322.

The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Inverness is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 1m.

Other travel options to Inverness take longer:

Train takes on average 10h 7m.

Bus takes on average 15h 42m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Southampton and Inverness including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Inverness 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 27m sooner (10h 7m by train vs 10h 34m by car). Tickets start at around $285 compared to roughly $210 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

Southampton to Inverness train times

The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Inverness trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Scotrail10:15 AM Southampton
11h08
9:23 PM Inverness0 transfersDirect
London North Eastern Railway10:30 AM Southampton
11h12
9:42 PM Inverness0 transfersDirect
Saturday, September 19
London North Eastern Railway8:00 AM Southampton
12h05
8:05 PM Inverness0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

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

Compare train, bus, 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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Southampton to Inverness

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Southampton to Inverness run on average 4 times per day, taking around 10h 7m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $122 but you can travel from only $45 by flight.

The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 20:15. The fastest train covers the 468 miles (754 km) distance in 9h 34m.

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
Flight from $45
Distance
468 miles (754 km)
Average train duration
10h 7m
Cheapest ticket price
$122
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
9h 34m
First train
4:54 AM
Last train
8:15 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
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
Flight from $45

Train companies: London North Eastern Railway, Scotrail, Lumo, Avanti West Coast from Southampton to Inverness trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, Scotrail, Lumo, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Southampton and Inverness from $45. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

London North Eastern Railway

About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
9h 34m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$122
London North Eastern Railway frequency
2 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone

Scotrail

About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Scotrail Duration
10h 24m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
$199
Scotrail frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks, some stations have catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
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
9h 43m
Cheapest Lumo Price
$195
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

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
10h 36m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$169
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 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

Complete guide to Inverness

Things to do in Inverness

Discover the best of Inverness — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Inverness trip today.

  • Must visit

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

The city's main museum, covering Highland history, archaeology, art, and local culture in a central Victorian building.

  • Must visit

Culloden Visitor Centre

A modern visitor centre exploring the Battle of Culloden through artefacts, immersive displays, and Jacobite history.

  • Recommended

The Highlanders' Museum

A compact military museum telling the story of the Queen's Own Highlanders and local regimental heritage.

British Pound Sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels can rise in peak season, but dining and local buses are usually reasonable for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£45+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up or tip about 10%.

FAQs: Trains from Southampton to Inverness

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton to Inverness 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 Inverness, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Southampton to Inverness can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $122, while the average price is around $285.
The train from Southampton to Inverness takes 9h 34m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Southampton to Inverness leaves at 4:54 AM.
The distance by train from Southampton to Inverness is 468 miles (754 km).
The last train from Southampton to Inverness leaves at 8:15 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Southampton to Inverness.
There is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Inverness.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Southampton to Inverness.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Inverness is Southampton Central (SOU), which connects to Inverness station (INV).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Inverness is by flight, with a cost of around $45.
The train journey from Southampton to Inverness is considered scenic, offering views of the English countryside, passing through the rolling hills of the South Downs, picturesque towns, and the rugged landscapes of the Scottish Highlands.
A day trip from Southampton to Inverness is not feasible. The journey takes 9h 34m and covers 468 miles (754 km). Trains run 3 times per day.
In Inverness, visitors can explore the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to discover local history and art, enjoy performances at Eden Court Theatre, and take a leisurely walk on the Ness Islands. The Caledonian Canal offers scenic walks or boat trips, while the Merkinch Local Nature Reserve is perfect for wildlife exploration. Key sights include the historic Inverness Castle, the scenic Loch Ness, the informative Culloden Battlefield, the impressive Inverness Cathedral, and the ancient Clava Cairns.
To experience the highlights of Inverness, 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient to explore the city, visit nearby attractions like Loch Ness, and enjoy local culture and cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Inverness.
Since neither Southampton nor Inverness 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 Inverness include Invergordon, Aviemore, Elgin, Nairn, Pitlochry.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Inverness 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 Inverness, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport hubs. Some visitors report occasional overcharging by taxi drivers, so it’s advisable to agree on fares beforehand or use licensed services. Always be aware of your surroundings at night and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas. Standard travel safety practices help ensure a secure 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 Inverness

Most Southampton to Inverness trains use the Southampton Central to Inverness station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Inverness 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 Inverness

Which Southampton station do trains to Inverness leave from?

Trains from Southampton to Inverness 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.

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