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Trains from London Waterloo East to
Folkestone Central

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London Waterloo East to Folkestone Central by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Folkestone Central? The trip usually takes about 1hrs 36 mins, covering approximately 62 miles (100 kilometres). With roughly 18 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 £12.50, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo East to Folkestone Central Key Stats

Arrival Station

Folkestone Central

Departure Station

London Waterloo East

Frequency

18trains
per day

Journey Time

from1hrs 36 mins

Changes

017 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

07:07 / 00:55

Distance

62miles
(100 km)

2 Routes

1 Train Operators

Prices

from£12.50

Travelling from London Waterloo East to Folkestone Central by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 1hrs 36 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 1hrs 36 mins. With approximately 18 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 62-mile (100 km) route usually requires just one change, with Southeastern 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 £12.50, 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 Folkestone Central!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo East and Folkestone Central

Curious about your trip from London Waterloo East to Folkestone Central? 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 Folkestone Central by train?

The travel time between London Waterloo East and Folkestone Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 1hrs 36 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 36 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Folkestone Central is 1hrs 36 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East to Folkestone Central can start from as little as £12.50 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 Folkestone Central?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Folkestone Central 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 07:07, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:55.

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

First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo East and Folkestone Central 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 Folkestone Central?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Waterloo East to Folkestone Central 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 Folkestone Central. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Folkestone Central, 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 Folkestone Central?

Yes! There are usually around 17 direct services per day from London Waterloo East to Folkestone Central

What train companies run services from London Waterloo East to Folkestone Central?

Southeastern are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Folkestone Central.

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

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

When are London Waterloo East to Folkestone Central Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo East to Folkestone Central on Thursday 1st May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Thursday 1st May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
06:09 London Waterloo East08:14 Folkestone Central1 changeLondon Bridge
2 hrs 5 mins Get Tickets
07:07 London Waterloo East08:51 Folkestone CentralDirect1 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
08:04 London Waterloo East09:48 Folkestone CentralDirect1 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
09:07 London Waterloo East10:43 Folkestone CentralDirect1 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
10:07 London Waterloo East11:43 Folkestone CentralDirect1 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
11:07 London Waterloo East12:43 Folkestone CentralDirect1 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
12:07 London Waterloo East13:43 Folkestone CentralDirect1 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
13:07 London Waterloo East14:43 Folkestone CentralDirect1 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
14:07 London Waterloo East15:48 Folkestone CentralDirect1 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
15:07 London Waterloo East16:48 Folkestone CentralDirect1 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
16:07 London Waterloo East17:48 Folkestone CentralDirect1 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
16:37 London Waterloo East18:31 Folkestone Central1 changeAshford International
1 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo East to Folkestone Central 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 Folkestone Central start from as little as £12.50

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 Folkestone Central start from £33.00 one way, or £33.10 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 Folkestone Central are available for £44.20 one way, or £45.40 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 Folkestone Central Station

Welcome to Folkestone Central Station

Nestled in the picturesque county of Kent, Folkestone Central train station serves as a vital hub for travelers heading towards the scenic coastline or venturing further afield. Whether you're setting off for a day at the beach, exploring the captivating landscapes of southeast England, or embarking on a journey to bustling London, Folkestone Central provides convenient and reliable services. Let's delve into the array of amenities that ensure your journey from Folkestone is both comfortable and efficient.

Facilities at Folkestone Central

Stepping into Folkestone Central, you're greeted by a welcoming environment that caters to all your travel necessities. For those purchasing or collecting tickets, the station boasts a ticket office open from Monday to Saturday, 6:00 to 19:00, and on Sundays from 8:10 to 17:40. Ticket machines are available for added convenience, with the capability to collect pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is a priority here, with an induction loop and accessible ticket machines located in the booking hall.

For individuals requiring assistance, there are customer help points and detailed staff support available. Travel information features through comprehensive departure screens and announcements, ensuring you are always updated with the latest schedule information. While luggage storage isn't available, you can rest easy knowing CCTV is in operation for enhanced security.

Passengers with mobility needs can navigate the station effortlessly thanks to step-free access across all platforms. Facilities such as accessible toilets, ramps for train access, and wheelchairs ensure a barrier-free environment. The station also offers four accessible parking spaces, although accessible car park equipment is not installed. Heated waiting rooms and adequate seating areas make waiting for your train a comfortable experience.

Travel Connections

Beyond rail services, Folkestone Central is well-connected by other modes of transport. If your journey continues by bus, you'll find information for onward travel plans and services easily accessible from the station. The rail replacement bus stop is conveniently located just beyond the station, details of which can be accessed through this link.

The station hosts a taxi rank at the front, ready to whisk you away to your next destination with little fuss. If you're planning routes either locally or further afield, various bus services also run near the station. More detailed information and printable timetables can be found here.

Popular Routes from Folkestone Central

When it comes to destinations, Folkestone Central opens up a world of possibilities. Direct trains to bustling hubs like London St Pancras International and London Bridge allow for swift access to the capital's numerous attractions. For international journeys, a quick hop to Ashford International connects you to Eurostar services.

Coastal escapes abound with trains to Dover Priory and Ramsgate. The historic city of Canterbury, known for its stunning cathedral, is also a short journey away. The station makes it easy to set off on adventures across Kent's enchanting countryside.

A Concluding Note on Folkestone Central

Folkestone Central isn't just a station; it's a gateway to countless experiences awaiting exploration. From leisure travelers to daily commuters, the station assures a smooth and accommodating travel experience. With various connections and travel conveniences, your journey from Folkestone Central could just be the start of your next great adventure. So, why not jump on board and see where the tracks might take you next?

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Waterloo East