- Recommended
Stafford Castle Visitor Centre
Main local museum inside Stafford Castle Visitor Centre, covering the castle, archaeology, and town history. A strong first stop for context.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Stafford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€106
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€106
Fastest journey on Sep 20
4 h 26 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
4 h 26 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
Distance
217 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton to Stafford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Stafford will cost around €106 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €106.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Southampton to Stafford, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 217 km distance in an average of 4 h 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 26 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 26 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:57 AM4h26Southampton1:23 PMStafford€1061One-way0 transfers
- 8:57 AM4h26Southampton1:23 PMStafford€1061One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Southampton to Stafford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Stafford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €111 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 16m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €111, while a train costs an average of €111.
Distance: 134 miles (217 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
€111 Average price Cheapest | €48 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 16m Average total duration Fastest 3h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Southampton to Stafford is a train with an average price of €111.
The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Stafford is by train with an average journey time of 3h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Stafford including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Stafford 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 €111 compared to roughly €48 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-62.84. The journey takes 3h 46m versus 3h 15m 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 Stafford train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Stafford trains for tomorrow, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:57 AM Southampton | 4h26 | 1:23 PM Stafford | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Stafford by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
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Sep 20
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Why should you book Southampton to Stafford trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as South Western Railway or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Southampton to Stafford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Stafford.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Stafford.
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Southampton to Stafford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Stafford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Stafford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Stafford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Stafford run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €106 if you book in advance.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:52, the last at 22:26. The fastest train covers the 134 miles (217 km) distance in 3h 8m.
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 134 miles (217 km) |
Average train duration 3h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price €106 |
Trains per day 3 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 3h 8m |
First train 4:52 AM |
Last train 10:26 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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: CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Avanti West Coast from Southampton to Stafford trainsCrossCountry, South Western Railway, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Southampton and Stafford from €106. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
4h 17m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€121
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
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
3h 8m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
€107
South Western Railway frequency
1 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
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
3h 52m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
€106
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 Stafford
Things to do in Stafford
Discover the best of Stafford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Stafford trip today.
- Recommended
The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery
Major county museum with art, social history, and changing exhibitions. One of the area’s best museum visits and easy to reach from Stafford.
- Recommended
World of Wedgwood Museum
National museum in nearby Stoke-on-Trent exploring ceramics, design, and factory heritage. Excellent for understanding Staffordshire’s global pottery story.
- Must visit
Victoria Park
Award-winning riverside park with flower displays, walks, play areas, and seasonal events. One of Stafford’s most enjoyable central outdoor spaces.
- Recommended
Greengate Street
Main pedestrian-friendly shopping street lined with historic buildings and independent businesses. Useful for atmosphere, architecture, and central orientation.
- Recommended
Market Square
Central market square and civic gathering area with regular markets and surrounding heritage buildings. A practical and lively place to experience local life.
- Vegetarian
Staffordshire Fruit Cake
A long-standing Staffordshire tea loaf, this rich fruit cake is traditionally made with local ale and dried fruit, then served sliced with butter.
Staffordshire Oatcake
A hearty oatcake from nearby North Staffordshire, served like a pancake with cheese, bacon, or fillings. It is a defining regional breakfast and snack.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Staffordshire Cheese
A traditional local cheese made in Staffordshire. Crumbly, mild, and creamy, it has been produced in the county for centuries and suits ploughman’s lunches.
The Island Restaurant
Established Indian restaurant with a strong local reputation for curries, tandoori dishes, and attentive service in a smart modern space.
Pizza by Goli
Popular casual spot for artisan pizza, craft beer, and cocktails. Lively atmosphere and reliable choice for modern comfort food in Stafford.
The Dog & Doublet Inn
Elegant restaurant at The Dog & Doublet, known for polished British cooking, afternoon tea, and a relaxed canal-side country setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Stafford is moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while rail fares and central stays can still raise trip costs.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up taxi fares. Cafes usually do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Stafford Railway Station -> Stafford Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card and mobile payments are accepted on most First Bus services in Stafford; ask the driver for the best value fare.
- Stafford town centre is walkable from Stafford Railway Station in about 10 min, so you may not need a bus for central destinations.
FAQs: Trains from Southampton to Stafford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton to Stafford 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 Stafford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Southampton to Stafford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €106, while the average price is around €111.
The train from Southampton to Stafford takes 3h 8m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Southampton to Stafford is 134 miles (217 km).
The first train from Southampton to Stafford leaves at 4:52 AM.
The last train from Southampton to Stafford leaves at 10:26 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Southampton to Stafford.
Yes, there is a direct train from Southampton to Stafford. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by CrossCountry.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Southampton to Stafford.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Stafford is Southampton Central (SOU), which connects to Stafford station (STA).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Stafford is by train, with a cost of around €106.
The train journey from Southampton to Stafford offers a mix of urban and rural views, with stretches through the picturesque countryside, including the South Downs and parts of the Midlands, providing scenic aspects along the route.
A day trip from Southampton to Stafford is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 8m. Trains run 5 times per day.
In Stafford, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities and sights. Catch a performance at the Stafford Gatehouse Theatre or explore the scenic walking trails along the River Sow. The Stafford Farmers' Market is perfect for sampling local produce and crafts. Golf enthusiasts can play at Stafford Castle Golf Club. Art lovers should visit the Shire Hall Gallery. For historical sights, explore the Norman-era Stafford Castle or the grand Shugborough Estate, which includes the Staffordshire County Museum. The Ancient High House and Victoria Park offer cultural and leisure experiences respectively.
To fully explore Stafford's historical sites, parks, and local attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Stafford.
Since neither Southampton nor Stafford 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 Stafford include Wolverhampton, London, Stoke-on-Trent, Penkridge, Birmingham.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Stafford 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 Stafford, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas. It is advisable to avoid unlicensed taxis and only use reputable transportation services to prevent scams. Staying alert in less populated areas at night and safeguarding personal belongings enhances safety during visits.
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 Stafford
Most Southampton to Stafford trains use the Southampton Central to Stafford station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Stafford 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 Stafford
Which Southampton station do trains to Stafford leave from?
Trains from Southampton to Stafford leave from Southampton Central. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Southampton city centre at Southampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · €2 · every ~20 min
Southampton Central train station facilities and services
Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
BitterneBitterne station, MacNaghten Road, Bitterne, Hampshire, SO18 1GG
City-centre transport
Getting to Bitterne from Southampton city centre
Bitterne is 2 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSouthampton Central - Portsmouth & Southsea, Southampton Central - Portsmouth Harbour · 9m · €1 · every ~2 min
Bus18, 16, 3, 14, N18 · 7m · €2 · every ~76 min
18, 16, 3, 14, N18 · 8m · €2 · every ~76 min
18, 14 · 19m · €2 · every ~47 min
Bitterne train station facilities and services
Bitterne 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 Bitterne.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bitterne.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bitterne: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Bitterne: Bike Parking.
Which Stafford station do trains from Southampton arrive at?
Trains from Southampton to Stafford arrive at Stafford. Stafford is from Stafford city centre.
StaffordStafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AA
City-centre transport
Getting to Stafford from Stafford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station on the left hand side.
Stafford train station facilities and services
Stafford has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Stafford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Stafford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Stafford. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Stafford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stafford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Stafford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from Southampton to Stafford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Stafford and Southampton
Most popular train connections to Stafford
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