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Trains from Bedford St Johns to
Southend East

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Bedford St Johns to Southend East by train

A train trip from Bedford St Johns to Southend East takes about 3hrs 10 mins on average, covering roughly 65 miles (105 kilometres). With around 18 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £58.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Bedford St Johns to Southend East Key Stats

Arrival Station

Southend East

Departure Station

Bedford St Johns

Frequency

18trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 52 mins

Changes

3-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:55 / 23:19

Distance

65miles
(105 km)

5 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£58.00

Travelling from Bedford St Johns to Southend East by Train

Hop on a Train from Bedford St Johns to Southend East – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Bedford St Johns to Southend East by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!

On average, the journey takes around 3hrs 10 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Southend East), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs 52 mins. With roughly 18 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 65-mile (105 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Thameslink, c2c, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, Southeastern, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!

The best part? Tickets start from just £58.00 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.

So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Southend East!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Bedford St Johns and Southend East

Curious about your trip from Bedford St Johns to Southend East? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Bedford St Johns and Southend East by train?

The travel time between Bedford St Johns and Southend East by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 10 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 52 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Bedford St Johns and Southend East by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Bedford St Johns to Southend East is 2hrs 52 mins.

How much does the train from Bedford St Johns to Southend East cost?

Train ticket prices from Bedford St Johns to Southend East can start from as little as £58.00 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Bedford St Johns and Southend East?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Bedford St Johns and Southend East vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 18 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:55, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:19.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Bedford St Johns and Southend East?

First class tickets on trains between Bedford St Johns and Southend East typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Bedford St Johns and Southend East?

Amenities on trains between Bedford St Johns and Southend East can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Bedford St Johns to Southend East by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Bedford St Johns and Southend East. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Southend East, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Bedford St Johns to Southend East?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Bedford St Johns & Southend East. However, there are 18 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Bedford St Johns to Southend East?

Thameslink, c2c, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains and Southeastern are the main train operating companies running services between Bedford St Johns and Southend East.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Bedford St Johns and Southend East?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Bedford St Johns and Southend East, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Bedford St Johns to Southend East Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Bedford St Johns to Southend East on Saturday 3rd May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Saturday 3rd May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
13:23 Bedford St Johns16:27 Southend East3 changesBedford
London Blackfriars
London Fenchurch Street
3 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
14:23 Bedford St Johns17:27 Southend East3 changesBedford
London Blackfriars
London Fenchurch Street
3 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
15:23 Bedford St Johns18:27 Southend East3 changesBedford
London Blackfriars
London Fenchurch Street
3 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
16:23 Bedford St Johns19:27 Southend East3 changesBedford
London Blackfriars
London Fenchurch Street
3 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
17:23 Bedford St Johns20:27 Southend East3 changesBedford
London Blackfriars
London Fenchurch Street
3 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
18:23 Bedford St Johns21:27 Southend East3 changesBedford
London Blackfriars
London Fenchurch Street
3 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
19:23 Bedford St Johns22:27 Southend East3 changesBedford
London St Pancras International
London Fenchurch Street
3 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
20:23 Bedford St Johns23:27 Southend East3 changesBedford
London St Pancras International
London Fenchurch Street
3 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
21:31 Bedford St Johns00:27 Southend East3 changesBedford
London St Pancras International
London Fenchurch Street
2 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
22:10 Bedford St Johns01:38 Southend East3 changesBedford
London Blackfriars
London Fenchurch Street
3 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
22:22 Bedford St Johns07:36 Southend East3 changesBletchley
London Euston
London Fenchurch Street
9 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Bedford St Johns to Southend East journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Bedford St Johns to Southend East are available for £58.00 one way, or £77.50 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Bedford St Johns Station

Exploring Bedford St Johns Train Station

Nestled in the charming town of Bedford, Bedford St Johns Train Station offers a glimpse into the quieter side of rail travel in the UK. While it may not boast the flurry of activity seen in larger stations, its simplicity serves the local community effectively. If you are planning on making this station a part of your journey, here's what you need to know to make your trip as smooth as possible.

Station Facilities

Travelers should note that Bedford St Johns operates as an unstaffed station, which means that there is no ticket office or ticket machines available on-site. However, smartcard holders don't need to worry about finding a validator here, as there are none. If you require assistance when planning your journey, there are help points available on the platforms to offer information and guidance.

Accessibility is a key focus, with step-free access available, although this may involve longer or steeper routes to platforms. Uniquely regarded as a category B1 station, step-free access is incorporated into all platforms, ensuring everyone can use the station with confidence. That said, there are no staff members to assist, so plan accordingly.

Transport Links

For those concerned about onward travel from Bedford St Johns, the station does provide a platform to access other modes of transportation. There are rail replacement services that operate from the Melbourne Street car park just a short distance from the station, ideal if you find your train connections disrupted. Additionally, bus services complement local travel needs—ensuring continued travel flexibility.

Popular Routes and Travel Tips

When looking to explore beyond Bedford St Johns, there are several popular routes that might catch your interest. The station provides services to nearby towns and larger hubs such as Bedford, Luton, and London St Pancras International. Whether for a short commute or a leisurely outing, you have options to traverse much of Bedfordshire and beyond. If you're heading to the airport, you can catch trains to Luton Airport Parkway, making your travel that much easier.

For those seeking a journey that encompasses both tranquility and utility, a trip from Bedford St Johns to destinations like Flitwick, Stewartby, or the iconic London Kings Cross might just be what you need. Remember, with services to places like St Albans City or Harpenden, your travel horizons from this humble station are wider than you might expect.

Final Thoughts

Though modest, Bedford St Johns Train Station plays a vital role in local commuting and offers an essential connectivity point with key locations both near and far. Without the distractions of bustling station amenities, you can focus on the scenic and essential aspects of your journey. As you prepare for travel, booking your tickets online in advance will ensure a seamless experience as you navigate the rail networks from Bedford St Johns.

With its emphasis on accessible travel and local integration, Bedford St Johns stands as a testament to functionality and simplicity within the UK's extensive rail network. Whether you're hopping on a train for the daily grind or embarking on a new adventure, the station offers a relaxed gateway and connection to your next destination.

Everything you need to know about Southend East Station

Discover Southend East Station

Nestled in the vibrant town of Southend-on-Sea, Southend East train station serves as a crucial gateway for commuters and leisure travelers alike. Conveniently positioned on the coast, the station provides a seamless connection to numerous destinations, making it an ideal hub for both daily travelers heading into London and those exploring the surrounding Essex attractions.

Facilities and Amenities

Southend East station is equipped with an array of facilities to cater to your travel needs. Whether you're purchasing your ticket or collecting one bought online, services are available with convenient opening hours. From Monday to Friday, the ticket office opens from 05:15 to 18:00, while weekend hours vary slightly. You can find accessible ticket machines and a helpful induction loop, ensuring a smooth experience for everyone.

For those seeking assistance, helpful station staff are available Monday through Friday from 06:00 to 19:30. You can find customer help points and detailed screens with departure information along with regular announcements to keep you up to date. The installation of CCTV across the station ensures a safe environment for all passengers.

Accessibility Considerations

Accessibility options are robust, particularly with step-free access available to London-bound platform 1. However, some areas may have limitations. There are accessible ticket machines and toilets on-site, along with ramp access for those boarding trains. Although there's no wheelchair availability or accessible taxis at the station, these facilities are compensated for by attentive staff willing to offer support.

Amenities for Comfort and Convenience

For comfort while waiting, you have access to cozy waiting rooms located on platform 1, open until late evening during weekdays. Refreshments are available, although food and drink options might be limited, with no shops or ATMs present. Thanks to public Wi-Fi, passengers can stay connected while they wait.

Onward Travel Options

Transportation links around Southend East station are well organized to facilitate your onward journey. Bus services are easily accessed via nearby bus stops on Southchurch Road, with practical rail replacement options also provided. For those planning to explore further afield, detailed travel posters are available. Although accessible taxis aren't directly available at the station, alternative arrangements can be made.

Popular Destinations from Southend East

Southend East offers excellent connections to an exciting array of destinations. For a bit of urban flair, consider venturing to London Fenchurch Street (learn more about trains from Southend East to London Fenchurch Street) or London Liverpool Street. For a day by the sea, take a trip to nearby Leigh-On-Sea or Westcliff, or even venture further along the coast to Shoeburyness. Additionally, destinations like Basildon, Pitsea, and Stanford-Le-Hope offer a quick escape to explore more of Essex's charming townships.

Your Seamless Travel Experience Awaits

With all its conveniences and strategic location, Southend East station is poised to serve your every travel need, whether you're commuting, seeking leisure adventures, or visiting loved ones. Keep in mind the excellent support staff and the well-thought-out amenities available so that your journey is as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. Whether you're planning a quick trip to see the sights or a longer journey to London, Southend East is your perfect starting point. Don't forget to book your tickets in advance for the best deals, and enjoy your travels via this coastal gateway!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Bedford St Johns