This websites requires JavaScript to work. It looks like your browser doesn't support JavaScript, or has it turned off. Please try again with JavaScript support.

70% of our customers find a cheaper split ticket, saving £25 on average

Trains from Purley to
Canterbury East

Search for Split Tickets to get the Cheapest Fares (save up to 90%)

No card or booking fees

Purley to Canterbury East by train

Planning a train journey from Purley to Canterbury East? The trip usually takes about 2hrs 54 mins, covering approximately 51 miles (83 kilometres). With roughly 40 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 £34.40, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Purley to Canterbury East Key Stats

Arrival Station

Canterbury East

Departure Station

Purley

Frequency

40trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 28 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:03 / 00:11

Distance

51miles
(83 km)

6 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£34.40

Travelling from Purley to Canterbury East by Train

Jump on a Train from Purley to Canterbury East – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

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

Typically, the trip takes about 2hrs 54 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Purley, the quickest trains can get you there in just 2hrs 28 mins. With approximately 40 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 51-mile (83 km) route usually requires just one change, with Thameslink, Southeastern, Southern 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 £34.40, 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 Canterbury East!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Purley and Canterbury East

Curious about your trip from Purley to Canterbury 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 Purley and Canterbury East by train?

The travel time between Purley and Canterbury East by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 54 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 28 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Purley and Canterbury East by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Purley to Canterbury East is 2hrs 28 mins.

How much does the train from Purley to Canterbury East cost?

Train ticket prices from Purley to Canterbury East can start from as little as £34.40 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 Purley and Canterbury East?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Purley and Canterbury East vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 40 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:03, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:11.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Purley and Canterbury East?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Purley and Canterbury East?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Purley to Canterbury East by train?

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Purley & Canterbury East. However, there are 40 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Purley to Canterbury East?

Thameslink, Southeastern and Southern are the main train operating companies running services between Purley and Canterbury East.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Purley and Canterbury East?

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

When are Purley to Canterbury East Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Purley to Canterbury East 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
22:45 Purley01:48 Canterbury East2 changesLondon Bridge
3 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
23:26 Purley06:39 Canterbury East2 changesLondon Victoria
Gillingham (Kent)
7 hrs 13 mins Get Tickets
23:26 Purley07:31 Canterbury East1 changeLondon Victoria
8 hrs 5 mins Get Tickets
23:34 Purley07:31 Canterbury East2 changesRedhill
London Victoria
7 hrs 57 mins Get Tickets
23:53 Purley08:10 Canterbury East2 changesRedhill
London Victoria
8 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Purley to Canterbury 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.

Off Peak fares from Purley to Canterbury East start from £43.70 one way, or £35.70 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 Purley to Canterbury East are available for £34.40 one way, or £36.50 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 Purley Station

Discovering Purley Train Station: A Key Transport Hub

Nestled in the London Borough of Croydon, Purley Train Station serves as a vibrant gateway for both locals and visitors traveling across the UK. With its strategic location on the Brighton Main Line, the station is a favored choice for commuters heading into Central London and beyond. Whether you're a first-time visitor or a regular commuter, Purley Station offers a blend of accessibility and convenience, making it a bustling hub for rail travel.

Facilities and Amenities at Purley Train Station

Purley Station prides itself on providing comprehensive facilities designed to meet the diverse needs of its passengers. The ticket office is open from early morning till evening, ensuring travelers can conveniently purchase and collect their tickets. There are ticket machines situated for ease of access, capable of processing Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. For those traveling with accessibility challenges, the station boasts step-free access throughout and provides staffed assistance, ensuring a seamless travel experience for everyone.

The station is equipped with an induction loop, helpful customer information screens, and clear announcements to keep you informed of your journey. While there are no waiting rooms, the station does offer seating areas where passengers can rest comfortably. Refreshment facilities are available for those in need of a quick snack, and an ATM machine ensures access to cash when needed.

Onward Travel from Purley

Purley Station is well-connected to various modes of transportation, facilitating easy transitions between different travel methods. For those needing taxis, a taxi rank is conveniently located outside both entrances of the station. If you prefer bus travel, information about services is readily available at the station, guiding you through local routes with ease. While the station lacks a dedicated car rental section, you'll find that public transport options are ample for most needs.

Popular Routes from Purley

Many travelers find Purley Station an ideal starting point for exploring major destinations. Some of the popular routes include journeys to London's key stations such as London Bridge, London Victoria, and East Croydon. Additionally, it serves as a gateway to Gatwick Airport, making it an excellent choice for international travelers.

Other noteworthy destinations accessible from Purley include Farringdon, Clapham Junction, and London Blackfriars. Whether heading for business meetings or leisurely visits, Purley's connectivity ensures an efficient start to any journey.

Why Choose Purley Station?

With its blend of modern facilities and transport connectivity, Purley Train Station is an excellent choice for travelers across the UK. Its commitment to accessibility and passenger support ensures a comfortable travel experience, whether you're commuting to work, heading for a shopping spree, or catching a flight. Discover the ease and efficiency of rail travel by starting your journey from Purley Station.

Planning Your Visit to Purley

When planning a visit to or from Purley, consider purchasing your tickets online to save time and benefit from potentially lower fares. Whether you're exploring local attractions or seeking onward connections to other parts of the UK, Purley Station stands as a welcoming point of departure. Embrace the future of rail travel and discover where your journey at Purley Station will lead you next.

Everything you need to know about Canterbury East Station

Discover Canterbury East Train Station

Welcome to Canterbury East train station, a charming gateway to the historic city of Canterbury. This convenient station, nestled in the county of Kent, offers an array of services designed to make your travel experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. Whether you’re commuting for work, planning a day out in Canterbury, or setting off on an adventure further afield, the station provides plenty of facilities to help you along the way.

Facilities at Canterbury East

At Canterbury East, buying and collecting tickets is a breeze. The ticket office is open from 06:10 to 20:20 on weekdays and Saturdays, and from 07:30 to 19:00 on Sundays. If you’re an early bird or a late traveler, rest assured, ticket machines are available when the station building is open, making collecting pre-purchased tickets straightforward. You’ll also find smartcard services and an induction loop to assist those with hearing impairments.

Accessibility is a priority here, with step-free access, ramps available for train access, and accessible toilets to ensure a comfortable transit experience. Although there isn’t a waiting room, there are seating areas where you can relax while awaiting your train. For those keen on cycling, there are 46 bicycle storage spaces under shelter on Platform 2. While the station does not offer cycle hire facilities, you are encouraged to use the stands provided, though you do so at your own risk.

Onward Travel Options

When it comes to onward travel, Canterbury East is well connected. The taxi rank is conveniently situated at the front of the station, and for those moments when train services are disrupted, replacement bus services are available from Station Road East, just across from the station entrance. Planning a bus journey? Detailed information to help with your route planning is accessible in a printable format here.

If you're hiring a car, nearby facilities are available although the station itself doesn't offer this service directly. For those driving to the station, a 24-hour car park operated by APCOA Parking offers 144 spaces with an off-peak evening rate of just £1.50 after 6 PM. Regular parking charges start from £4.90 for daily parking. Car park security is bolstered by CCTV, ensuring peace of mind while you travel.

Exciting Destinations Easily Accessible from Canterbury East

Canterbury East is more than just a transit point—it's your portal to exploring both local and distant attractions. From here, you can swiftly reach bustling cities such as London St Pancras International and London Victoria. For those preferring a more local exploration, trips to seaside towns like Whitstable, or historical sites like Dover Priory, are within easy reach. Discover routes to other nearby destinations including Faversham, Rainham (Kent), and Bromley South, each offering their unique attractions and experiences.

Embark on Your Journey

Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or embarking on your first journey, Canterbury East station provides everything you need for a comfortable start. From secure parking, easy access for all, and helpful customer service, this station ensures your travel is hassle-free. Why wait? Dive into your next adventure with a train journey departing from Canterbury East, and immerse yourself in the stunning landscapes and vibrant cultures this part of the UK has to offer. After all, a journey from Canterbury East is a gateway to endless possibilities.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Purley