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Trains from London Waterloo East to
Southampton Central

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London Waterloo East to Southampton Central by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Southampton Central? The trip usually takes about 3hrs 21 mins, covering approximately 69 miles (112 kilometres). With roughly 22 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 £9.70, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo East to Southampton Central Key Stats

Arrival Station

Southampton Central

Departure Station

London Waterloo East

Frequency

22trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 37 mins

Changes

2-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

00:53 / 23:26

Distance

69miles
(112 km)

3 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£9.70

Travelling from London Waterloo East to Southampton Central by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 3hrs 21 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 2hrs 37 mins. With approximately 22 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 69-mile (112 km) route usually requires just one change, with Southern, Southeastern, Thameslink, South Western Railway 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 £9.70, 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 Southampton Central!

Journey Details

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

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

The travel time between London Waterloo East and Southampton Central by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 21 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 37 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Southampton Central is 2hrs 37 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East to Southampton Central can start from as little as £9.70 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 Southampton Central?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Southampton Central vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 22 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 00:53, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:26.

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

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

Amenities on trains between London Waterloo East and Southampton 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 Southampton 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 Southampton Central. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Southampton 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 Southampton Central?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo East & Southampton Central. However, there are 22 possible journeys which require a change.

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

Southern, Southeastern, Thameslink and South Western Railway are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Southampton Central.

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

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Southampton 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 Southampton Central Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo East to Southampton Central on Thursday 12th June 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Thursday 12th June
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
08:42 London Waterloo East11:22 Southampton Central2 changesLondon Bridge
Clapham Junction
2 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
09:42 London Waterloo East12:22 Southampton Central2 changesLondon Bridge
Clapham Junction
2 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
10:43 London Waterloo East13:22 Southampton Central2 changesLondon Bridge
Clapham Junction
2 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
11:42 London Waterloo East14:22 Southampton Central2 changesLondon Bridge
Clapham Junction
2 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
12:42 London Waterloo East15:22 Southampton Central2 changesLondon Bridge
Clapham Junction
2 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
13:42 London Waterloo East16:21 Southampton Central2 changesLondon Bridge
Clapham Junction
2 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
14:42 London Waterloo East17:21 Southampton Central2 changesLondon Bridge
Clapham Junction
2 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
14:59 London Waterloo East18:31 Southampton Central2 changesLondon Bridge
Brighton
3 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
15:29 London Waterloo East19:05 Southampton Central2 changesLondon Bridge
Brighton
3 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
15:59 London Waterloo East19:31 Southampton Central2 changesLondon Bridge
Brighton
3 hrs 32 mins Get Tickets
16:29 London Waterloo East20:03 Southampton Central2 changesLondon Bridge
Brighton
3 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
17:44 London Waterloo East20:21 Southampton Central2 changesLondon Bridge
Clapham Junction
2 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo East to Southampton 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 Southampton Central start from as little as £9.70

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 Southampton Central start from £38.10 one way, or £38.20 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 Southampton Central are available for £39.40 one way, or £42.00 return

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

The biggest saving our customers have made travelling from London Waterloo East to Southampton Central is £5.30 & the average saving on this route is £5.30!

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 Southampton Central Station

Discover Southampton Central Station

Welcome to Southampton Central, a dynamic hub nestled in the heart of the bustling coastal city of Southampton. Whether you're catching a train for a business trip or embarking on a leisurely journey, this station offers convenience, connectivity, and a gateway to numerous destinations across the UK. Southampton itself is a city steeped in maritime heritage and offers a fantastic array of shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

Facilities and Amenities

Southampton Central Station is well-equipped to make your travel experience smooth and enjoyable. The ticket office operates from early morning until late evening, accommodating the needs of both early birds and night owls alike. Ticket machines are available, with facilities to collect pre-booked tickets, including options for those with a Disabled Persons Railcard.

For tech-savvy travelers needing assistance, help and support are never far away. Assistance is available throughout the station, from help points and ticket offices, to accessible ticket machines. Step-free access extends throughout the station, ensuring that all passengers can navigate with ease. Additional amenities include heated waiting rooms on all platforms and accessible toilets on Platforms 1 and 4.

Onward Travel Options

Southampton Central Station not only serves as a train hub but also connects with other modes of transport, making it exceptionally convenient for onward travel. The station offers direct links to a reliable rail replacement service from Blechynden Terrace during maintenance periods. If you're looking for a taxi, you'll find one conveniently outside Platform 1's exit. For those who prefer buses, ample information is available to assist with bus services. A printable guide ensures you won't get lost planning your next steps.

Explore Destinations from Southampton

From Southampton Central, the world, or at least the UK, is your oyster. Hop on a train to iconic destinations such as London Waterloo and experience the city in its vibrant glory. For a more local jaunt, quaint Winchester awaits with its historical charm. Bask in the coastal beauty of Bournemouth or venture to the maritime hubs of Portsmouth and Southsea. Nature enthusiasts can enjoy the New Forest with a train to Brockenhurst or cross the country to reach the rolling hills of Brighton. And for an international departure, Gatwick Airport is just a rail line away.

Final Thoughts

With its extensive facilities and numerous connections, Southampton Central Station is pivotal in your travel journey. Whether you're looking to discover bustling cityscapes or serene countryside retreats, this station acts as a central departure point to multiple experiences. So why wait? Plan your journey today and delve into the myriad of adventures that await just beyond Southampton Central's platforms. Make the most of your travels by booking your train tickets online or via the ticket machines available at the station now.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Waterloo East