Southampton to Ipswich train with South Western Railway

Wed, Aug 05
+ Add return
South Western Railway
Greater Anglia
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
Greater Anglia
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Ipswich

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

€71

Average price

€108

Fastest journey

3 h 21 m

Average duration

3 h 35 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

219 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Southampton to Ipswich will cost around €108 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €71.

Fast trains

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

  • South Western RailwayL78764+TubeTube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)+Greater AngliaP01245
    9:00 AM3h36
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    12:36 PMIpswich station (IPS)
    711One-way
    2 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL80064+Greater AngliaP01341+TubeTube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)
    9:30 AM3h54
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    1:24 PMIpswich station (IPS)
    711One-way
    2 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL78760+Greater AngliaC04675+TubeTube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)
    8:30 AM3h54
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    12:24 PMIpswich station (IPS)
    1271One-way
    2 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL78756+Greater AngliaP01236+TubeTube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)
    8:00 AM3h39
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    11:39 AMIpswich station (IPS)
    1271One-way
    2 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00855+Greater AngliaP01236+Great Western RailwayW35358+Elizabeth lineC38186
    8:15 AM3h24
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    11:39 AMIpswich station (IPS)
    1271One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Southampton to Ipswich

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Ipswich 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 train which can get you there in 3h 0m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €39, and a train costs an average of €31.

Distance: 136 miles (219 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

€62

Average price

€57

Average price

Cheapest

€45

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 30m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 39m

Average total duration

6h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 16m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

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

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Southampton to Ipswich is a bus with an average price of €57.

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

A bus is €5 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Ipswich costing on average €62.

The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Ipswich is by train with an average journey time of 3h 0m.

Other travel options to Ipswich take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 9m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Ipswich including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Ipswich 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 16m sooner (3h 0m by train vs 3h 16m by car). Tickets start at around €62 compared to roughly €45 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 Ipswich train times

The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Ipswich trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
South Western RailwayL78756+Greater AngliaP01236+TubeTube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)8:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h39
11:39 AM Ipswich station (IPS)2 transfers
Greater AngliaP01236+Great Western RailwayW35358+CrossCountryG00855+Elizabeth lineC381868:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h24
11:39 AM Ipswich station (IPS)3 transfers
South Western RailwayL78760+Greater AngliaC04675+TubeTube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)8:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h54
12:24 PM Ipswich station (IPS)2 transfers
South Western RailwayL78764+Greater AngliaP01245+TubeTube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)9:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h36
12:36 PM Ipswich station (IPS)2 transfers
Greater AngliaP01245+Elizabeth lineC37893+Great Western RailwayW34472+CrossCountryG008589:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h21
12:36 PM Ipswich station (IPS)3 transfers
South Western RailwayL80064+Greater AngliaP01341+TubeTube from London Waterloo to Stratford (London)9:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
3h54
1:24 PM Ipswich station (IPS)2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Ipswich 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.

Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11

Why should you book Southampton to Ipswich trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as Greater Anglia offer trains services from Southampton to Ipswich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Ipswich.

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 Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Ipswich.
  • 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 Ipswich.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Southampton to Ipswich

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Southampton to Ipswich run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 0m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €31 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:49, the last at 22:43. The fastest train covers the 136 miles (219 km) distance in 3h 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
Distance
136 miles (219 km)
Average train duration
3h 0m
Cheapest ticket price
€31
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 21m
First train
4:49 AM
Last train
10:43 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
1 day
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

Train companies: South Western Railway, Greater Anglia from Southampton to Ipswich trainsSouth Western Railway, Greater Anglia trains will get you between Southampton and Ipswich from €31. 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
3h 35m
Cheapest Price
€31
South Western Railway frequency
5 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

Greater Anglia

About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 21m
Cheapest Price
€46
Greater Anglia frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Ipswich

Things to do in Ipswich

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

  • Must visit

Ipswich Museum

Ipswich’s main museum and gallery, covering local history, archaeology, art, and natural science in a major Victorian institution.

  • Must visit

Christchurch Mansion

Elegant mansion museum in Christchurch Park with period rooms, Ipswich treasures, and changing displays in a beautiful historic setting.

  • Recommended

Ipswich Art Gallery

Free contemporary gallery showing regional and national artists. A strong stop for visitors exploring Ipswich’s modern cultural scene.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly affordable 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
£50+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Taxis are often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tips.

FAQs: Trains from Southampton to Ipswich

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Southampton to Ipswich can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €31, while the average price is around €62.
The train from Southampton to Ipswich takes 3h 21m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Southampton to Ipswich leaves at 4:49 AM.
The distance by train from Southampton to Ipswich is 136 miles (219 km).
The last train from Southampton to Ipswich leaves at 10:43 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Southampton to Ipswich.
There is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Ipswich.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Southampton to Ipswich.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Ipswich is Southampton Central (SOU), which connects to Ipswich station (IPS).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Ipswich is by train, with a cost of around €31.
The train journey from Southampton to Ipswich offers views of picturesque English countryside, passing through charming towns and the coastal scenery near the Solent and Suffolk.
A day trip from Southampton to Ipswich is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 21m. Trains run 7 times per day, covering a distance of 136 miles (219 km).
In Ipswich, visitors can enjoy performances at the New Wolsey Theatre, explore walking trails at Orwell Country Park, and discover transport heritage at the Ipswich Transport Museum. Dance enthusiasts can visit DanceEast for performances and workshops, while families might enjoy Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park. Notable sights include the vibrant Ipswich Waterfront, historic Christchurch Mansion, Ipswich Museum, and the scenic Holywells Park. For local cuisine and views, the Suffolk Food Hall is a must-visit.
To thoroughly explore Ipswich's cultural attractions, historic sites, and nearby Suffolk countryside, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Ipswich.
Since neither Southampton nor Ipswich 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 Ipswich include London, Chelmsford, Stowmarket, Norwich, Colchester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the town center and markets. Scams involving overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation. Travelers should also remain aware of their surroundings at night, as isolated areas may have increased petty crime.
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 Ipswich

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

Which Southampton station do trains to Ipswich leave from?

Trains from Southampton to Ipswich 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.

Southampton Airport ParkwaySouthampton Airport Parkway station, Wide Lane, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2HW+44 345 600 0650WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Southampton Airport Parkway from Southampton city centre

Southampton Airport Parkway is 5 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSalisbury - Romsey, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - Winchester, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Woking, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Poole - Winchester, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Romsey - Romsey, Southampton Central - Woking, Salisbury - Salisbury, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 10m · €3 · every ~8 min
BusU1a, U1e · 34m · €2 · every ~21 min
U1a, U1e · 40m · €2 · every ~37 min

Southampton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services

Southampton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Southampton Airport Parkway.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Airport Parkway: 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 some platforms at this station have no or only partial 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: No.

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