- Must visit
The British Museum
World-famous museum of human history and culture, known for the Rosetta Stone, Parthenon sculptures, and vast global collections.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Swanage to London
Showing times and prices for May 15
Cheapest price
$30
Average price
$37
Fastest journey
2 h 18 m
Average duration
2 h 21 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
163 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Swanage to London is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Swanage to London will cost around $37 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.
Fast trains
Of the 12 trains that leave Swanage for London on Fri, May 15, 12 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, May 15 the direct trains cover the 163 km distance in an average of 2 h 21 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 18 m .
On Fri, May 15 the slowest trains will take 2 h 24 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.
P6146512:56 PM2h24Holton Heath (HOL)3:20 PMLondon Waterloo (WAT)$301One-way0 transfers- P6138910:29 AM2h20Wareham station (WRM)12:49 PMLondon Waterloo (WAT)$331One-way0 transfers
- P61516_P613848:30 AM2h19Holton Heath (HOL)10:49 AMLondon Waterloo (WAT)$341One-way0 transfers
- P6146211:56 AM2h25Holton Heath (HOL)2:21 PMLondon Waterloo (WAT)$341One-way0 transfers
- P6145810:56 AM2h25Holton Heath (HOL)1:21 PMLondon Waterloo (WAT)$341One-way0 transfers
- P613869:29 AM2h18Wareham station (WRM)11:47 AMLondon Waterloo (WAT)$381One-way0 transfers
- P61516_P613848:30 AM2h19Holton Heath (HOL)10:49 AMLondon Waterloo (WAT)$341One-way0 transfers
- P6138910:29 AM2h20Wareham station (WRM)12:49 PMLondon Waterloo (WAT)$331One-way0 transfers
- P61516_P613848:27 AM2h22Wareham station (WRM)10:49 AMLondon Waterloo (WAT)$381One-way0 transfers
- P614528:56 AM2h24Holton Heath (HOL)11:20 AMLondon Waterloo (WAT)$441One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Swanage to London
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Swanage to London among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 20m. 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 $7, and a train costs an average of $20.
Distance: 101 miles (163 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$47 Average price | $10 Average price Cheapest | $64 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 50m Average total duration Fastest 2h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 58m Average total duration 3h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Swanage to London is a bus with an average price of $10 (€8).
This is compared to other travel options from Swanage to London:
A bus is $37 (€30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Swanage to London costing on average $48 (€38).
The fastest way to travel from Swanage to London is by train with an average journey time of 2h 23m.
Other travel options to London take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Swanage and London including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Swanage to London among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 43m faster (2h 23m by train vs 3h 6m by car) and roughly $17 (€13) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($48 (€38) vs $64 (€52)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with South Western Railway.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Swanage to London train times
The table below shows live departures for Swanage to London trains for today, Thursday, May 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P61516_P61384 | 8:27 AM Wareham station (WRM) | 2h22 | 10:49 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P61452 | On time 8:53 AM Wareham station (WRM) | 2h27 | 11:20 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P61386 | On time 9:29 AM Wareham station (WRM) | 2h18 | 11:47 AM London Waterloo (WAT) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P61455 | On time 9:53 AM Wareham station (WRM) | 2h27 | 12:20 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P61389 | On time 10:29 AM Wareham station (WRM) | 2h20 | 12:49 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P61458 | On time 10:53 AM Wareham station (WRM) | 2h28 | 1:21 PM London Waterloo (WAT) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Swanage to London 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
May 15
May 15
Sat
May 16
May 16
Sun
May 17
May 17
Mon
May 18
May 18
Tue
May 19
May 19
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May 20
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May 21
May 21
Why should you book Swanage to London trains with Omio?
South Western Railway operates all trains services from Swanage to London.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Swanage to London.
Why book with Omio vs South Western Railway?
- 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 Swanage to London.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Swanage to London.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Swanage to London
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Swanage to London run on average 11 times per day, taking around 2h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $20 (€16) but you can travel from only $7 (€6) by bus.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:30, the last at 21:42. The fastest train covers the 101 miles (163 km) distance in 2h 20m.
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 $7 (€6)
Distance 101 miles (163 km) |
Average train duration 2h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 (€16) |
Trains per day 11 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 2h 20m |
First train 5:30 AM |
Last train 9:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 42 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 $7 (€6)
Train companies: South Western Railway from Swanage to London trainsSouth Western Railway trains will get you between Swanage and London from $7 (€6). 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 20m
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
Complete guide to London
Things to do in London
Discover the best of London — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect London trip today.
- Must visit
The National Gallery
Major art museum on Trafalgar Square with masterpieces by Van Gogh, Turner, da Vinci, and many other European painters.
- Must visit
Tate Modern
Leading modern and contemporary art gallery in a former power station on the Thames, famous for its collection and river views.
- Must visit
Covent Garden
Lively central district known for street performers, elegant arcades, shopping, and a vibrant historic market atmosphere.
- Must visit
South Bank
Popular riverside walking area with major cultural venues, skyline views, book stalls, and a consistently lively atmosphere.
- Recommended
Notting Hill
Charming neighborhood of pastel houses, attractive streets, and market culture, especially popular for photos and weekend strolls.
Fish And Chips
Battered white fish with thick-cut chips, often served with mushy peas and tartare sauce. A classic London pub and chippy staple.
Pie And Mash
A traditional London working-class dish of meat pie with mashed potatoes, commonly topped with parsley liquor.
Full English Breakfast
A hearty plate of eggs, sausages, bacon, beans, mushrooms, tomatoes, and toast. A beloved British breakfast served across London.
Dishoom Covent Garden
A stylish, very popular restaurant inspired by old Bombay cafes, known for house black daal, bacon naan rolls, and lively atmosphere.
The Harwood Arms
A Michelin-starred gastropub in Fulham known for refined British pub cooking, excellent game, and a polished yet relaxed setting.
Rules
London’s oldest restaurant, famous for classic British dishes, game, pies, and traditional dining rooms with historic charm.
Pound Sterling
Compared with most UK and European cities, London is costly for accommodation, transport, and dining, though budget food options still exist.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway, fast food, or simple cafe meals.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-40 per person for a main course and drink at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 80+ per person at upscale restaurants, often more with drinks and service.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
In Restaurants, a 12.5% service charge is often added automatically, especially in London; if included, no extra tip is expected. If not included, 10-12.5% is customary for good service. In Pubs, bart
TfL Go
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.80
- Day pass
- GBP 8.50
To the city center
London Waterloo -> Charing Cross, London
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Use contactless or Oyster for the lowest adult fares across Tube, bus, and most rail services in London.
- Buses do not accept cash, but card and mobile contactless payments are accepted onboard.
FAQs: Trains from Swanage to London
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Swanage to London 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 London, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Swanage to London can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $20 (€16), while the average price is around $48 (€38).
The train from Swanage to London takes 2h 20m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from Swanage to London is 101 miles (163 km).
The first train from Swanage to London leaves at 5:30 AM.
The last train from Swanage to London leaves at 9:42 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Swanage to London.
Yes, there is a direct train from Swanage to London. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by South Western Railway.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Swanage to London.
The train station in Swanage that goes to London is Wareham station (WRM), which connects to London Waterloo (WAT).
The cheapest way to get from Swanage to London is by bus, with a cost of around $7 (€6).
The Swanage to London train journey offers scenic views, particularly as it begins near the Purbeck Hills and passes through the picturesque Dorset countryside before reaching urban landscapes closer to London.
A day trip from Swanage to London is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 20m. However, there are 12 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 101 miles (163 km).
In London, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from The London Eye, visit the vibrant West End Theatre District for high-quality shows, and explore Camden Market's eclectic mix of food, fashion, and crafts. A walk through Hyde Park offers beautiful landscapes and recreational activities, while art lovers can visit the Tate Modern. Don't miss The British Museum's vast collection of art and antiquities, the historic Tower of London with its Crown Jewels, and Buckingham Palace. Iconic landmarks like The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, along with St. Paul's Cathedral, offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and architecture.
For a comprehensive experience of London's top attractions, cultural sites, and local neighborhoods, it is recommended to spend around 3 to 5 days in the city. This allows time to explore major landmarks such as the British Museum, Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace, as well as enjoy local markets and parks.
Yes, you can take the train from Swanage to London.
Since neither Swanage nor London 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 London include Oxford, Cambridge, Brighton, Stevenage, Canterbury.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Swanage to London 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 London, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport, markets, and popular tourist sites. Common scams include fake charity collectors, overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers, and distraction techniques used by thieves. Always use official black cabs or licensed minicabs booked through reputable apps, and keep personal belongings secure to reduce risks. Staying vigilant in busy locations and avoiding unsolicited offers helps ensure a safer 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 Swanage to London
Swanage
London
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Sunday 24 Hours a Day Tickets bought in advance online or from South Western Railway telesales can be collected at Ticket Office or at Self-Serve Ticket Machines.
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: A wide range of shops including convenience store, supermarket, pharmacy, newsagent, bookseller, clothing, gifts, travel accessories and passport photobooth.
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: There is step free access from the main concourse to all platforms, shops and facilities. Step free exits are exit 1 (Station approach), exit 2 (with a lift to Waterloo Road and lift access to the London Underground Jubilee line), and exit 3 for taxis and onward travel towards the South Bank.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available from the taxi rank on Cab Road / Station Approach
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket machines are located at various locations on the main concourse and are accessible to wheelchair users.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The entrance to the public toilets is on the main concourse opposite platform 18, and these facilities have an accessible toilet and baby changing facilities. There is a another accessible toilet outside exit 3 operated by a RADAR key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The entrance to the public toilets is on the main concourse opposite platform 18, and these facilities have an accessible toilet and baby changing facilities. There is a another accessible toilet outside exit 3 operated by a RADAR key.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Cycle storage is located outside exit 3 on Station Approach / Cab Road.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for London Waterloo
- Onward travel information: Waterloo is well connected to London's public transport network. Waterloo Underground station serves the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City Lines. Plan a journey - Transport for London (tfl.gov.uk) Buses depart from several points around the station. All Transport for London Buses are accessible with step free access and have a dedicated mobility space. Buses from Waterloo (tfl.gov.uk) The station has a dedicated taxi rank for London Black Taxis on the roadway outside exit 3. Santander Hire Bicycles are available from the docking stations outside. Santander Cycles - Transport for London (tfl.gov.uk) Waterloo is within easy walking distance of the South Bank and a number of visitor attractions. Walking - Transport for London (tfl.gov.uk).
- Metro: Waterloo Underground station is served by the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern and Waterloo & City Lines. Step free access is available to and from the Jubilee Line. For more information on London Transport accessibility: Plan an accessible journey - Transport for London (tfl.gov.uk).
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersShoppingParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 24/7
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located near the taxi stand beside Platform 11.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent Flower stall Shoe repairer Wide range of shops Mini supermarket Pharmacy Convenience store High street shops Off Licence Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Dining
- Wasabi
- The Beer House
- Barburrito
- Upper Crust
- The Mad Bishop & Bear (Fullers)
- The Pasty Shop
- Burger King
- Pret a Manger
- The Savanna
- Soboro Bakery
- & more
Taxis
- Taxi: The taxi deck is situated above Platform 12 and is accessed via the concourse and platform 12, which has escalators and lifts to the upper level to the covered marshalled taxi rank. A queuing system is in operation. There is also a separate collection point for pre-booked taxis and a drop off point
- Accessible taxis: All London Black Cabs can accommodate wheelchair passengers without wheelchair users having to leave their wheelchair. There is also a separate collection point for prebooked taxis also further away from the lifts.
Accessibility
- Wheelchair access, escalators, elevators.
WC
- Toilets Location: Accessible toilets are located on Platforms' 1 and 12. A Changing Places facility is located on Platform 12. There are dedicated breastfeeding rooms / Parent & Baby rooms; within the Ladies toilets on Platform 1 within the public toilets on Platform 12.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: Accessible toilets are located on Platforms 1 and 12.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Hilton London Paddington
- Mercure London Paddington Hotel
- The Pilgrm
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Platform 12
Ticket Office
- 24/7
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: On platform 8/9 and 10
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Located near Platform 1.
Public transit options for London Paddington
- Underground lines: Bakerloo Line, Circle Line, District Line, Hammersmith Line
- Bus lines: N7, 23, 27, N27, 36, 205, N205, 332, 7, 46, A1, 18, N18
- Train lines: Great Western Main Line, Heathrow Express
- Metro: Tube Lines.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Sunday 06:30 - 22:00
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent Flower stall Hairdresser Shoe repairer Wide range of shops Pharmacy Convenience store High street shops Off Licence Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: There is step free access at London Victoria Rail Station to the Victoria Line on the Underground. This can be accessed via the Cardinal Place entrance to the underground.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible public telephones: Main concourse
- Accessible taxis: Available on request Taxi rank outside main station entrance
- Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Sunday 24 Hours a Day
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: Toilets are situated on the central concourse and adjacent to platform 2. A changing place facility is available for use by disabled passengers in London Victoria. The space has a height-adjustable adult-sized changing bench, hoist, extra wide rolls of paper, and non-slip floors. The space is located on the central concourse in the main toilet facilities. If you, or a passenger you are accompanying, requires use of the changing place room, please speak to a member of staff or contact our control centre on 020 7922 6243 so we can help you gain access.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: Hudson's Place and Central Concourse
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets,Male toilets,
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Car Park Upper Level (Victoria Place), above Gatwick Express.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for London Victoria
- Onward travel information: Victoria Bus Station at Station Front
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: When weekend engineering dictate that replacement bus services will operate, these will usually depart from the immediate Station front/Terminus Place. Travel from London Victoria is usually conveyed by London Buses in these instances. Check posters and staff for more details.
- Metro: Underground services: Victoria Line, District Line and Circle Line
More options for your journey from Swanage to London
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from London and Swanage
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