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Trains from London Waterloo to
Swansea

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London Waterloo to Swansea by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo to Swansea? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 29 mins, covering approximately 164 miles (265 kilometres). With roughly 35 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 £30.00, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo to Swansea Key Stats

Arrival Station

Swansea

Departure Station

London Waterloo

Frequency

35trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 58 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:26 / 00:05

Distance

164miles
(265 km)

3 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£30.00

Travelling from London Waterloo to Swansea by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 4hrs 29 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 58 mins. With approximately 35 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 164-mile (265 km) route usually requires just one change, with GWR, CrossCountry, 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 £30.00, 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 Swansea!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo and Swansea

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

The travel time between London Waterloo and Swansea by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 29 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 58 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo to Swansea is 3hrs 58 mins.

How much does the train from London Waterloo to Swansea cost?

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo to Swansea can start from as little as £30.00 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 and Swansea?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo and Swansea vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 35 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:26, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:05.

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

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

What amenities are available on trains between London Waterloo and Swansea?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo & Swansea. However, there are 35 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Waterloo to Swansea?

GWR, CrossCountry and South Western Railway are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo and Swansea.

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

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

When are London Waterloo to Swansea Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo to Swansea 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
12:20 London Waterloo16:27 Swansea1 changeReading
4 hrs 7 mins Get Tickets
12:30 London Waterloo16:27 Swansea2 changesGuildford
Reading
3 hrs 57 mins Get Tickets
13:50 London Waterloo17:30 Swansea2 changesBasingstoke
Reading
3 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
14:20 London Waterloo18:34 Swansea1 changeReading
4 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
14:30 London Waterloo18:34 Swansea2 changesGuildford
Reading
4 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
15:20 London Waterloo19:30 Swansea1 changeReading
4 hrs 10 mins Get Tickets
15:30 London Waterloo19:30 Swansea2 changesGuildford
Reading
4 hrs Get Tickets
16:05 London Waterloo20:14 Swansea2 changesBasingstoke
Reading
4 hrs 9 mins Get Tickets
16:20 London Waterloo20:34 Swansea1 changeReading
4 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
16:30 London Waterloo20:34 Swansea2 changesGuildford
Reading
4 hrs 4 mins Get Tickets
17:05 London Waterloo21:16 Swansea2 changesBasingstoke
Reading
4 hrs 11 mins Get Tickets
17:35 London Waterloo21:32 Swansea2 changesBasingstoke
Reading
3 hrs 57 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo to Swansea 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 to Swansea start from as little as £30.00

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 to Swansea start from £61.60 one way, or £81.70 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 to Swansea are available for £72.00 one way, or £299.00 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 Station

London Waterloo Train Station: A Hub of Vibrancy and Connectivity

Nestled in the heart of London, Waterloo Station stands as a bustling epicenter for commuters and travelers alike, serving as the beating heart of UK's rail network. From the breath-taking grandeur of its architecture to its vibrant hustle and bustle, it's a place where the world feels like it's at your fingertips. Beyond the picturesque platforms, London Waterloo isn't just about catching a train; it's an experience that embraces convenience, accessibility, and variety.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo

London Waterloo Station is replete with facilities designed to make your journey smooth and hassle-free. Its ticket office operates from 5:30 AM to 11:15 PM during weekdays and Saturdays, with slightly adjusted times on Sundays. For those who prefer to plan their travels in advance, ticket machines are available on the main concourse, making online ticket collection straightforward and accessible. Moreover, there's an induction loop system making communication easy for the hearing impaired.

Accessibility is one of the key strengths of Waterloo Station, with step-free access available throughout. The station is ably equipped to cater to the needs of all passengers, featuring accessible toilets, ramps for train access, and seating areas to ensure comfort. Help points, dedicated staff assistance, and an extensive customer service offering guarantee that you’re never without support.

Shopping, Dining, and More

Beyond travel, the station's main concourse presents a generous selection of shopping and dining options. From seated dining experiences to convenient takeaways, the station has every palate covered. A mix of shops, including a pharmacy, clothing stores, and more, ensure that whatever last-minute essentials you may need, you’ll find them on hand.

Getting to and From Waterloo: Transport Options

Moving beyond the platforms, London Waterloo Station acts as a dynamic node connecting you with London and beyond. With a dedicated taxi rank and a close-knit relationship with London's extensive bus and Underground services, getting around is both straightforward and efficient. Waterloo Underground station is served by several lines, including the Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City lines making your planning effortless.

For those looking to explore the city on two wheels, Santander Cycle hire bikes are available nearby. The station's proximity to the South Bank makes it an inviting starting point for a leisurely stroll or cycle along the riverside for a touch of culture and picturesque views.

Destinations to Explore from London Waterloo

If you're planning a journey, London Waterloo connects you with an array of popular destinations. Whether it’s a quick trip to nearby Clapham Junction, a family day out to Wimbledon, or a scenic journey further afield to Southampton Central, the station offers a gateway to adventure.

The list of travel options is extensive, with trips to Guildford, Richmond, and Basingstoke providing just a glimpse of the destinations accessible from Waterloo.

Conclusion: Beyond the Commute

London Waterloo isn’t just a station; it’s a launchpad for discovery and experience. Whether you're on a daily commute or embarking on a new journey, the station's unparalleled facilities and connectivity ensure that every trip is a pleasure. As you step into this vibrant hub, you become part of a tradition of travel and exploration, stretching back over a century and continuing to evolve with the city around it.

So, whether you are buying tickets online or from the station, you can be assured of a seamless experience at London Waterloo. It’s not just where journeys end and begin, but where memories are made and adventures are born. Come, explore; the world from London Waterloo awaits you!

Everything you need to know about Swansea Station

Welcome to Swansea Train Station

Nestled in the scenic landscape of South Wales, Swansea Train Station is not just a transit hub, but a gateway to the rich history and culture of the region. Whether you're embarking on a journey through the rolling hills of Wales or heading towards the bustling streets of London, Swansea station offers a comfortable and convenient starting point for your travels.

Facilities and Amenities at Swansea Station

The station is well-equipped to meet the needs of travelers. You'll find a ticket office open early in the morning till late in the evening throughout the week, with ticket machines available for those who prefer a quicker option. The machines are user-friendly, designed to accommodate cash, debit, and credit card payments, with accessible options to help those with disabilities. Swansea Station ensures that all areas offer step-free access, making it exceptionally accommodating for passengers with mobility difficulties.

While the amenities at the station include available refreshment facilities and a variety of shops, expecting high-end dining or vast retail options might leave one wanting more. However, these essentials provide a convenient quick stop for refreshments and last minute necessities. For security and assistance, CCTV is operational throughout the station, ensuring a safe environment and assistance is available for those who need it. The station's staffing includes help points for customer information, though there's no dedicated customer help desk.

Transport Links and Connectivity

One of Swansea Station's many benefits is its connectivity. The station is serviced by a taxi rank positioned conveniently adjacent to the station. Whether you're a commuter requiring swift access to a meeting or a visitor needing easy transport to your accommodation, the taxis are ready to serve. Additionally, for those opting for public transport, frequent bus services run on the High Street directly in front of the station, connecting to the broader Swansea and Gower area, including the Quadrant Bus Station for broader network access. The station also supports the PlusBus scheme, allowing for economical unlimited bus travels.

Bicycling Facilities and Car Parking

For environmentally-conscious travelers or cycling enthusiasts, the station has substantial bicycle parking facilities. With numerous sheltered stands available on Platforms 1 and 4 and opposite the station, cyclists can securely park their bicycles with ease. If car travel is your preference, note that parking is available at no charge though spaces are limited to 41, none of which currently meet accessible parking criteria.

Popular Travel Routes from Swansea

Swansea Train Station facilitates effortless travel to various popular destinations. If you're in the mood for a cosmopolitan adventure, hop on a train to London Paddington or a train to Cardiff Central. For coastal views, a journey to Carmarthen provides a picturesque travel experience. Alternatively, explore the wider region with routes leading to places like Bristol Temple Meads and Manchester Piccadilly.

Embarking on Your Journey

Whether you are setting off on a new adventure or returning to familiar horizons, Swansea Train Station offers a rich tapestry of facilities and connections to ensure your journey starts off smoothly. Be it a local jaunt to Neath or an international flight connection via Paddington, Swansea Station is your gateway to the wonders waiting beyond its tracks.

Remember, your next adventure awaits just beyond the platform, and a wealth of experiences reside in every potential destination listed on the departure board. So go on, book your tickets, pack your sense of adventure, and let the rails guide you toward your next unforgettable journey.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Waterloo