Luton to Southampton train with South Western Railway

Tue, Sep 08
+ Add return
South Western Railway
CrossCountry
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
CrossCountry
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Luton to Southampton

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08

Cheapest price on Sep 08

$31

Average ticket price on Sep 08

$45

Fastest journey on Sep 08

2 h 38 m

Average journey duration on Sep 08

2 h 46 m

Trains on Sep 08

6

Distance

128 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Luton to Southampton will cost around $45 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.

Fast trains

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

  • South Western RailwayL80140+TubeTube from London St Pancras International to London Waterloo+ThameslinkW32974
    12:59 PM2h49
    Luton station (LUT)
    3:48 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $311One-way
    2 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL80282+ThameslinkW32942+TubeTube from London St Pancras International to London Waterloo
    1:29 PM2h52
    Luton station (LUT)
    4:21 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $381One-way
    2 transfers
  • South Western RailwayL80282+ThameslinkW45554+London OvergroundL24811
    1:43 PM2h38
    Luton station (LUT)
    4:21 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $381One-way
    2 transfers
  • Elizabeth lineC37191+CrossCountryG01022+ThameslinkW45554
    1:43 PM3h01
    Luton station (LUT)
    4:44 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $511One-way
    2 transfers
  • Elizabeth lineC38325+CrossCountryG01022+Great Western RailwayW34632+ThameslinkW32971
    1:59 PM2h45
    Luton station (LUT)
    4:44 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $511One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Luton to Southampton

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Luton to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $55 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 51m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $55, while a train costs an average of $65.

Distance: 79 miles (128 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$65

Average price

$55

Average price

Cheapest

$36

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 51m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 26m

Average total duration

2h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 54m

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 Luton to Southampton is a bus with an average price of $55.

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

A bus is $9 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Luton to Southampton costing on average $65.

The fastest way to travel from Luton to Southampton is by train with an average journey time of 2h 21m.

Other travel options to Southampton take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 56m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Southampton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Luton to Southampton 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 $65 compared to roughly $36 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-28.29. The journey takes 2h 21m versus 1h 54m 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

Luton to Southampton train times

The table below shows live departures for Luton to Southampton trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayW34629+CrossCountryG01018+Elizabeth lineC38243+ThameslinkW3297412:59 PM Luton station (LUT)
2h44
3:43 PM Southampton Central (SOU)3 transfers
South Western RailwayL80140+ThameslinkW32974+TubeTube from London St Pancras International to London Waterloo12:59 PM Luton station (LUT)
2h49
3:48 PM Southampton Central (SOU)2 transfers
ThameslinkW32942+South Western RailwayL80282+TubeTube from London St Pancras International to London Waterloo1:29 PM Luton station (LUT)
2h52
4:21 PM Southampton Central (SOU)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45554+Elizabeth lineC37191+CrossCountryG010221:43 PM Luton station (LUT)
3h01
4:44 PM Southampton Central (SOU)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45554+South Western RailwayL80282+London OvergroundL248111:43 PM Luton station (LUT)
2h38
4:21 PM Southampton Central (SOU)2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Luton to Southampton 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.

Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14

Why should you book Luton to Southampton trains with Omio?

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

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 CrossCountry or Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Luton to Southampton.
  • 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Luton to Southampton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Luton to Southampton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Luton to Southampton run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 but you can travel from only $18 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 03:25, the last at 23:32. The fastest train covers the 79 miles (128 km) distance in 1h 56m.

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 $18
Distance
79 miles (128 km)
Average train duration
2h 21m
Cheapest ticket price
$23
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
1h 56m
First train
3:25 AM
Last train
11:32 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Fri
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $18

Train companies: South Western Railway, Elizabeth line, CrossCountry, Thameslink from Luton to Southampton trainsSouth Western Railway, Elizabeth line, CrossCountry, Thameslink trains will get you between Luton and Southampton from $18. 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 South Western Railway Duration
2h 1m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
$23
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

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
1h 56m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$45
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

Elizabeth line

About
Tfl Rail is a railway service operated by Transport for London in the United Kingdom. It operates on the Great Western Main Line and the Heathrow branch of the London Underground. The service runs from Paddington in London to Reading, Maidenhead, Slough, and Heathrow Airport. It also serves the towns of Taplow, Burnham, Twyford, and Hayes & Harlington. All trains are air-conditioned and feature onboard Wi-Fi, power sockets, and digital information screens. Tfl Rail offers a range of ticket types, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and Oyster cards. Oyster cards are the most popular ticket type, allowing passengers to pay for their journey with a single card. The most popular routes for Tfl Rail are Paddington to Reading, Paddington to Maidenhead, and Paddington to Heathrow Airport. These routes offer frequent services and provide passengers with a convenient way to travel between London and the surrounding areas.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Elizabeth line Duration
2h 29m
Cheapest Elizabeth line Price
$45
Elizabeth line frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included with ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds available through TfL website or customer service
Refund
Full refund available for service cancellations
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
No dedicated dining car. Passengers can bring their own food and drinks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Step-free access at most stations, wheelchair spaces on trains, priority seating
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be leashed. Guide dogs welcome
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 Thameslink Duration
2h 11m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
$44
Thameslink frequency
1 a day
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 Southampton

Things to do in Southampton

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

  • Must visit

SeaCity Museum

Southampton's flagship museum tells the city's story from Roman origins to Titanic and aviation, with strong local collections and family displays.

  • Must visit

Tudor House and Garden

Restored Tudor home and remains of a Norman house reveal centuries of domestic and maritime history in Southampton's atmospheric Old Town.

  • Recommended

Southampton City Art Gallery

Art gallery with a respected collection spanning old masters to contemporary works, plus changing exhibitions in the Cultural Quarter.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels often cost less than London, while dining and local transport are typical for a mid-sized English city.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£2.80-4.20 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Luton to Southampton

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Luton to Southampton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23, while the average price is around $65.
The train from Luton to Southampton takes 1h 56m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Luton to Southampton leaves at 3:25 AM.
The distance by train from Luton to Southampton is 79 miles (128 km).
The last train from Luton to Southampton leaves at 11:32 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Luton to Southampton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Luton to Southampton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Luton to Southampton.
The train station in Luton that goes to Southampton is Luton station (LUT), which connects to Southampton Central (SOU).
The cheapest way to get from Luton to Southampton is by bus, with a cost of around $18.
The train journey from Luton to Southampton offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through picturesque countryside areas, including the Chiltern Hills and parts of the South Downs, providing a pleasant view for travelers.
A day trip from Luton to Southampton is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 56m. However, there are 6 train services available per day for this route, covering a distance of 79 miles (128 km).
In Southampton, you can explore the New Forest National Park for hiking and wildlife spotting, take the Hythe Ferry for a scenic trip, or shop at Westquay Shopping Centre. Enjoy the vibrant Ocean Village Marina with its dining and leisure options, or relax in Southampton Common. For cultural experiences, visit the Tudor House and Garden, SeaCity Museum, Southampton City Art Gallery, Solent Sky Museum, and catch a performance at the Mayflower Theatre.
To fully explore Southampton, including its maritime attractions, cultural sites, and local experiences, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Luton to Southampton.
Since neither Luton nor Southampton 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 Southampton include London, Bournemouth, Winchester, Portsmouth, Salisbury.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Luton to Southampton 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 Southampton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and near the port. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour operators offering poor services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official ticket vendors for transportation. Staying vigilant in crowded places and securing personal belongings can help 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 Luton to Southampton

Most Luton to Southampton trains use the Luton to Southampton Central station pair, with some services arriving at Southampton Airport Parkway. Use this guide to compare Luton and Southampton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Luton
Arrival train stations in Southampton

Which Luton station do trains to Southampton leave from?

Trains from Luton to Southampton leave from Luton. The station is from Luton city centre at Luton station, Station Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2LT.
LutonLuton station, Station Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2LTWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton from Luton city centre

Bus17 · 7m · $2 · every ~2 min

Luton train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Luton.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Luton. ATMs are available at Luton.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luton: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Luton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station: Step free access via lift to platform 5 only (some trains to Bedford/ the East Midlands) only. Steps to all other platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Luton DART ParkwayLuton LU2 0HB, UKAccessibility

Luton DART Parkway train station facilities and services

Luton DART Parkway has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton DART Parkway: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.

Luton Airport ParkwayLuton Airport Parkway station, Parkway Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3JWWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton Airport Parkway from Luton city centre

Luton Airport Parkway is 1 km from Luton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCorby - London St Pancras International, Sheffield - London St Pancras International, Nottingham - London St Pancras International, Kettering - London St Pancras International, Wellingborough - London St Pancras International, East Midlands Parkway - London St Pancras International · 2m · $1 · every ~4 min
BusX4, X1, X2, Z, A, X3 · 5m · $5 · every ~41 min
612, X10 · 5m · $1 · every ~2 min
44, 45, 366 · 6m · $2 · every ~2 min
101, 100 · 10m · $5 · every ~7 min

Luton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services

Luton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, 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 Luton Airport Parkway.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton Airport Parkway.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

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

Bike and car services

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

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton Airport Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

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