Southampton to Luton train with South Western Railway

Fri, Jul 31
+ Add return
South Western Railway
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Luton

Showing times and prices for Jul 31

Cheapest price

$37

Average price

$53

Fastest journey

2 h 40 m

Average duration

2 h 40 m

Trains per day

8

Distance

128 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Southampton to Luton will cost around $53 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Southampton to Luton without transferring at least 3 times.

  • South Western RailwayL78764+SouthernG88386+TubeTube from London Victoria to London St Pancras International+East Midlands RailwayC41881
    9:00 AM2h40
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    11:40 AMLuton station (LUT)
    $371One-way
    3 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL78756+London OvergroundP02520+ThameslinkW45535
    8:00 AM2h57
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    10:57 AMLuton station (LUT)
    $411One-way
    2 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL78764 · L81675+East Midlands RailwayC41881+TubeTube from Vauxhall to London St Pancras International
    9:00 AM2h40
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    11:40 AMLuton station (LUT)
    $451One-way
    3 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL78760+TubeTube from London Victoria to London St Pancras International+East Midlands RailwayC41879+SouthernG88380
    8:30 AM2h40
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    11:10 AMLuton station (LUT)
    $451One-way
    3 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL78756+TubeTube from London Victoria to London St Pancras International+East Midlands RailwayC41875+SouthernG88375
    8:00 AM2h40
    Southampton Central (SOU)
    10:40 AMLuton station (LUT)
    $451One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Southampton to Luton

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Luton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 18m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a train costs an average of $20.

Distance: 79 miles (128 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$50

Average price

$37

Average price

Cheapest

$35

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 48m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 33m

Average total duration

3h 3m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 57m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

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 Luton is a bus with an average price of $37 (€30).

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

A bus is $13 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Luton costing on average $50 (€41).

The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Luton is by train with an average journey time of 2h 18m.

Other travel options to Luton take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 3m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Luton including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Luton 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 $50 (€41) compared to roughly $35 (€29) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-14.16 (€-11.59). The journey takes 2h 18m versus 1h 57m 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 to Luton train times

The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Luton trains for tomorrow, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
South Western RailwayL78756+ThameslinkW45535+London OvergroundP025208:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
2h57
10:57 AM Luton station (LUT)2 transfers
South Western RailwayL78756+East Midlands RailwayC41875+TubeTube from London Victoria to London St Pancras International+SouthernG883758:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
2h40
10:40 AM Luton station (LUT)3 transfers
South Western RailwayL78756+ThameslinkW45535+TubeTube from London Waterloo to London St Pancras International8:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
2h57
10:57 AM Luton station (LUT)2 transfers
South Western RailwayL78756 · L81979+East Midlands RailwayC41875+TubeTube from Vauxhall to London St Pancras International8:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
2h40
10:40 AM Luton station (LUT)3 transfers
South Western RailwayL78760 · L81987+East Midlands RailwayC41879+TubeTube from Vauxhall to London St Pancras International8:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
2h40
11:10 AM Luton station (LUT)3 transfers
South Western RailwayL78760+East Midlands RailwayC41879+TubeTube from London Victoria to London St Pancras International+SouthernG883808:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
2h40
11:10 AM Luton station (LUT)3 transfers
South Western RailwayL78764 · L81675+East Midlands RailwayC41881+TubeTube from Vauxhall to London St Pancras International9:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
2h40
11:40 AM Luton station (LUT)3 transfers
South Western RailwayL78764+East Midlands RailwayC41881+TubeTube from London Victoria to London St Pancras International+SouthernG883869:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
2h40
11:40 AM Luton station (LUT)3 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Luton 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.

Fri
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06

Why should you book Southampton to Luton trains with Omio?

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

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 Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Luton.
  • 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 Luton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Southampton to Luton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Southampton to Luton run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $20 (€16) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 79 miles (128 km) distance in 2h 40m.

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 (€14)
Distance
79 miles (128 km)
Average train duration
2h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
$20 (€16)
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
2h 40m
First train
12:06 AM
Last train
11:36 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Tue
Best time to book
63 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 $17 (€14)

Train companies: South Western Railway, Thameslink from Southampton to Luton trainsSouth Western Railway, Thameslink trains will get you between Southampton and Luton from $17 (€14). 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 40m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€16)
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

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
3h 29m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€44)
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 Luton

Things to do in Luton

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

  • Must visit

Wardown House, Museum and Gallery

Luton's main museum in a Victorian mansion, covering local history, hats, lace, and changing exhibitions in a well-kept park setting.

  • Must visit

Stockwood Discovery Centre

Museum complex with rural life displays, carriages, gardens, and archaeology, making it one of Luton's strongest family-friendly heritage sites.

  • Recommended

The Hat Factory at Stockwood Discovery Centre

Working hat factory museum explaining Luton's famous hat-making trade through machinery, displays, and guided tours in an authentic setting.

British Pound Sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels near the airport can be pricey, but dining and local transit are usually cheaper than central London.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-12 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
£2.80-4 for coffee.

Tipping culture

Service may be included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.

FAQs: Trains from Southampton to Luton

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Southampton to Luton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $20 (€16), while the average price is around $50 (€41).
The train from Southampton to Luton takes 2h 40m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Southampton to Luton leaves at 12:06 AM.
The distance by train from Southampton to Luton is 79 miles (128 km).
The last train from Southampton to Luton leaves at 11:36 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Southampton to Luton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Luton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Southampton to Luton.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Luton is Southampton Central (SOU), which connects to London Luton Airport (LUA).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Luton is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The train journey from Southampton to Luton offers views of the English countryside, passing through regions such as the South Downs and the outskirts of the Chiltern Hills, providing a pleasant but not particularly dramatic scenic experience.
A day trip from Southampton to Luton is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 40m. Trains run 7 times per day.
In Luton, visitors can explore The Mall Luton for shopping and dining, enjoy family-friendly activities at Woodside Animal Farm, and shop for fresh produce and crafts at Luton Indoor Market. For outdoor activities, Stockwood Park offers a space for picnics and sports. For entertainment, The Galaxy provides a cinema and bowling alley. Key sights include the Stockwood Discovery Centre with its local history exhibits and gardens, Wardown House Museum and Gallery, Luton Hoo Estate with its gardens and golf course, Whipsnade Zoo, and The Hat Factory Arts Centre, which hosts performances and art exhibitions.
Visitors typically find that spending one to two days in Luton is sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Stockwood Discovery Centre, Wardown House, and the charming local parks.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Luton.
Since neither Southampton nor Luton 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 Luton include London, Bedford, St Albans, Wellingborough, Harpenden.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Luton 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 Luton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as Luton Airport and the town center. Taxi scams can occur, so using licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation is advised. Be wary of unofficial currency exchange services offering poor rates or counterfeit notes. Staying vigilant in busy spots 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Southampton to Luton

Most Southampton to Luton trains use the Southampton Central to London Luton Airport station pair, with some services arriving at Luton. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Luton 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 Luton

Which Southampton station do trains to Luton leave from?

Trains from Southampton to Luton 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 · $4 · 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.

WoolstonWoolston station, Garton Road, Woolston, Hampshire, SO19 2DJWifiParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Woolston from Southampton city centre

Woolston is 1 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSouthampton Central - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - Portsmouth & Southsea, Southampton Central - Portsmouth Harbour, Southampton Central - Woking · 9m · $4 · every ~2 min
Bus17, 10, 15, 13, N17 · 5m · $2 · every ~51 min
7 · 7m · $2 · every ~9 min
17, 13, 19, 15, 19a, 7, 10, N17 · 10m · $2 · every ~82 min

Woolston train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Woolston.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Woolston.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Woolston.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Woolston: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Woolston: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Woolston: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - Level access to Platform 1 (for trains towards Southampton). Steps to Platform 2 (for trains towards Portsmouth). 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, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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