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Trains from London Waterloo East to
Cambridge

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London Waterloo East to Cambridge by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Cambridge? The trip usually takes about 7hrs 51 mins, covering approximately 48 miles (78 kilometres). With roughly 3 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £8.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo East to Cambridge Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cambridge

Departure Station

London Waterloo East

Frequency

3trains
per day

Journey Time

from7hrs 6 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

23:12 / 00:02

Distance

48miles
(78 km)

2 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£8.00

Travelling from London Waterloo East to Cambridge by Train

Jump on a Train from London Waterloo East to Cambridge – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from London Waterloo East to Cambridge? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 7hrs 51 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 7hrs 6 mins. With approximately 3 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 48-mile (78 km) route usually requires just one change, with Thameslink, Southeastern, Great Northern providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £8.00, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Cambridge!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo East and Cambridge

Curious about your trip from London Waterloo East to Cambridge? 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 London Waterloo East and Cambridge by train?

The travel time between London Waterloo East and Cambridge by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 7hrs 51 mins & the fastest journey takes 7hrs 6 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between London Waterloo East and Cambridge by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Cambridge is 7hrs 6 mins.

How much does the train from London Waterloo East to Cambridge cost?

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East to Cambridge can start from as little as £8.00 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 London Waterloo East and Cambridge?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Cambridge vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 3 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 23:12, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:02.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Waterloo East and Cambridge?

First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo East and Cambridge typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between London Waterloo East and Cambridge?

Amenities on trains between London Waterloo East and Cambridge can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Waterloo East to Cambridge by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between London Waterloo East and Cambridge. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Cambridge, 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 London Waterloo East to Cambridge?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo East & Cambridge. However, there are 3 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Waterloo East to Cambridge?

Thameslink, Southeastern and Great Northern are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Cambridge.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Cambridge?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Cambridge, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are London Waterloo East to Cambridge Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo East to Cambridge on Tuesday 29th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 29th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
06:01 London Waterloo East07:38 Cambridge1 changeLondon Bridge
1 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
06:28 London Waterloo East08:11 Cambridge1 changeLondon Bridge
1 hrs 43 mins Get Tickets
06:58 London Waterloo East08:41 Cambridge1 changeLondon Bridge
1 hrs 43 mins Get Tickets
07:32 London Waterloo East09:11 Cambridge1 changeLondon Bridge
1 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
08:02 London Waterloo East09:41 Cambridge1 changeLondon Bridge
1 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
08:31 London Waterloo East10:11 Cambridge1 changeLondon Bridge
1 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
09:00 London Waterloo East10:41 Cambridge1 changeLondon Bridge
1 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
09:32 London Waterloo East11:11 Cambridge1 changeLondon Bridge
1 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
09:59 London Waterloo East11:41 Cambridge1 changeLondon Bridge
1 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
10:23 London Waterloo East12:11 Cambridge1 changeLondon Bridge
1 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
10:58 London Waterloo East12:41 Cambridge1 changeLondon Bridge
1 hrs 43 mins Get Tickets
11:32 London Waterloo East13:11 Cambridge1 changeLondon Bridge
1 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo East to Cambridge 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.

Advance fares from London Waterloo East to Cambridge start from as little as £8.00

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.

Off Peak fares from London Waterloo East to Cambridge start from £21.60 one way, or £21.70 return

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 London Waterloo East to Cambridge are available for £28.10 one way, or £46.10 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 London Waterloo East Station

Exploring London Waterloo East Train Station: A Convenient Gateway to Discover the City

Looking to explore the vibrant city of London and beyond? London Waterloo East train station is your perfect starting point. Conveniently situated, the station serves as a vital link, connecting you to numerous destinations within London and across the UK. Let’s dive into the details of what London Waterloo East has to offer and why it's an ideal choice for your travel plans.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo East

Though London Waterloo East is a bustling hub, it provides essential amenities to ensure a smooth experience for travelers. While it lacks a traditional ticket office, fear not—ticket machines are readily available for both purchase and collection of pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is thoughtfully catered for, with accessible ticket machines and step-free access via lifts from Waterloo Main station. Need assistance? Help points are clearly marked, and staff are on hand to lend a helping hand when needed.

For those traveling with youngsters or seeking some comfort, the station hosts heated waiting rooms and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities. CCTV surveillance is in place to ensure a secure environment throughout your journey. Hungry or in need of caffeine fix? Grab a snack or a hot drink from the coffee shops and vending machines on site—no worries about missing the news as newspapers are available too!

Onward Travel: Connecting You Further

Transportation links play a crucial role in making your journey seamless. London Waterloo East does not disappoint with its comprehensive connections to other parts of the city. The bus alighting point on Sandell Street ensures easy access to local transit and rail replacement services. If you're planning an onward journey by train, numerous exciting routes can spark your travel imagination.

Popular Routes: Embark on an Adventure

Dreaming of exploring iconic locations within and around London? London Waterloo East provides access to some fantastic destinations. Whether you're commuting or planning a day trip to explore new locales, this station links you to areas such as London Bridge, London Charing Cross, and Hither Green. With easy routes to places like East Croydon or Tonbridge, your adventures are just a train ride away.

Why Choose London Waterloo East?

As a commuter or an explorer, stepping through the doors of London Waterloo East gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel with ease. Whether it’s the convenience of arriving at London Bridge or the cultural allure of reaching London Charing Cross, this station offers it all. Its facilities cater to your needs, including accessibility and necessary travel support.

Embark on Your Journey Today!

Booking your ticket is the first step to countless experiences waiting at your fingertips. With easy access to online ticket collection, friendly staff to assist, and comprehensive travel links, London Waterloo East is not just a station—it's the beginning of your next adventure. Time to pack your bags, hop on board, and embrace the journey!

Everything you need to know about Cambridge Station

Discovering Cambridge Train Station: Your Guide to Facilities and Travel

Cambridge, a renowned city for its historical significance and academic excellence, is home to one of the busiest train stations in the East. Navigating the scene can seem daunting with its bustling atmosphere and multifaceted amenities, but fear not! Cambridge Train Station is a well-equipped hub designed to cater to the needs of travelers whether you're a frequent commuter or a one-time visitor.

Rich Amenities at Cambridge Station

Variety is at the heart of Cambridge Train Station's offerings. Whether you're grabbing a quick ticket or lounging before your next train, the station is well-equipped. The ticket office is open bright and early from 05:10 am to 23:00 pm on weekdays and Saturdays, with slightly reduced hours on Sundays. Ticket machines are accessible, making it a breeze to collect tickets bought online.

Accessibility is a priority, with step-free access throughout the station, including lifts to platforms 7 and 8, and accessible ticket machines. For parents traveling with infants, baby changing facilities are conveniently located on Platform 4 alongside newly refurbished toilets. The station also hosts various shopping and refreshment facilities.

Explore with Ease: Transport Connectivity

Connectivity is seamless in Cambridge. Situated conveniently, the station links nicely with local transport. From rail replacement buses that are ready in front of the station to a taxi rank that ensures modulated travel into and around Cambridge. Regular 'Stagecoach' buses connect passengers to major city routes, with frequent services operating to enhance your onward journey. Consider the PLUSBUS option for a cost-effective travel experience around the city.

Popular Routes from Cambridge Train Station

Want to venture beyond Cambridge? You're in luck. Trains conveniently connect you to popular destinations such as London Kings Cross or Ely. Whether you're embarking on a journey to Stansted Airport or catching a train to Norwich, there's a perfect route waiting for you. Travelers also frequently enjoy direct services to London Liverpool Street and quaint towns like Bury St Edmunds or Audley End.

Stylish and Safe Cycling Facilities

Cambridge remains one of the UK's foremost cycling cities, and the station is no exception. With an impressive capacity of 2850 bike storage spaces, you’ll find both stands and racks, all protected by CCTV for peace of mind. This is an ideal solution for cyclists venturing to the station without the need for cycle hire facilities.

In summation, Cambridge Train Station is more than just a gateway to the city's rich cultural tapestry. It’s a hub of convenience, connectivity, and comfort. So whether you're traveling for leisure or work, embrace all the station offers and explore the fantastic destinations that await your arrival.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Waterloo East