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Trains from Southampton Central to
London Waterloo

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Southampton Central to London Waterloo by train

Considering a train trip from Southampton Central to London Waterloo? The journey typically lasts around 1hrs 54 mins and spans about 69 miles (112 kilometres). With approximately 48 trains running each day, you're spoiled for choice when scheduling your travel. By booking your tickets in advance, you could secure fares starting from just £9.70, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Southampton Central to London Waterloo Key Stats

Arrival Station

London Waterloo

Departure Station

Southampton Central

Frequency

48trains
per day

Journey Time

from1hrs 14 mins

Changes

038 direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

00:04 / 00:06

Distance

69miles
(112 km)

5 Routes

3 Train Operators

Prices

from£9.70

Travelling from Southampton Central to London Waterloo by Train

Embark on a train journey from Southampton Central to London Waterloo, and you'll find it's quicker than you might anticipate!

The typical travel time is about 1hrs 54 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 1hrs 14 mins. With approximately 48 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 69 miles (112 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like CrossCountry, GWR, South Western Railway offer comfortable seating with plenty of room for your luggage.

Here's the best part: by booking your tickets in advance, you can snag fares starting from only £9.70, offering a substantial saving over buying tickets at the last minute. For even more savings, consider traveling during Off-Peak times or using a Railcard.

Ready to secure those budget-friendly tickets? Use our Journey Planner to discover the latest deals and keep your travel costs down. Dive into more travel tips below or consult our timetable for up-to-date train schedules. All aboard for London Waterloo!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Southampton Central and London Waterloo

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

The travel time between Southampton Central and London Waterloo by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 1hrs 54 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 14 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Southampton Central to London Waterloo is 1hrs 14 mins.

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

Train ticket prices from Southampton Central to London Waterloo 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 Southampton Central and London Waterloo?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Southampton Central and London Waterloo vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 48 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 00:04, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:06.

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

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

What amenities are available on trains between Southampton Central and London Waterloo?

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

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

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

Yes! There are usually around 38 direct services per day from Southampton Central to London Waterloo

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

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

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

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

When are Southampton Central to London Waterloo Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Southampton Central to London Waterloo on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
04:52 Southampton Central06:34 London WaterlooDirect1 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
05:15 Southampton Central06:42 London Waterloo1 changeBasingstoke
1 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
06:30 Southampton Central07:47 London WaterlooDirect1 hrs 17 mins Get Tickets
06:44 Southampton Central08:39 London WaterlooDirect1 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
07:00 Southampton Central08:19 London WaterlooDirect1 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
07:15 Southampton Central08:43 London Waterloo1 changeBasingstoke
1 hrs 28 mins Get Tickets
07:30 Southampton Central08:48 London WaterlooDirect1 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
07:37 Southampton Central09:18 London Waterloo1 changeBasingstoke
1 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
07:37 Southampton Central09:38 London WaterlooDirect2 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
08:00 Southampton Central09:25 London WaterlooDirect1 hrs 25 mins Get Tickets
08:15 Southampton Central09:51 London Waterloo1 changeBasingstoke
1 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
08:30 Southampton Central09:53 London WaterlooDirect1 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Southampton Central to London Waterloo 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 Southampton Central to London Waterloo 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 Southampton Central to London Waterloo start from £23.90 one way, or £24.00 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 Southampton Central to London Waterloo are available for £40.60 one way, or £73.50 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 Southampton Central to London Waterloo is £46.65 & the average saving on this route is £9.82!

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 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.

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!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Southampton Central