- Recommended
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
Engaging Roman museum built around the remains of a town house. See mosaics, artefacts and displays that bring Roman Canterbury to life.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bournemouth to Canterbury
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 26 Oct
Cheapest price on 26 Oct
£38
Average ticket price on 26 Oct
£39
Fastest journey on 26 Oct
5 h 38 m
Average journey duration on 26 Oct
5 h 38 m
Trains on 26 Oct
2
Distance
216 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bournemouth to Canterbury is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bournemouth to Canterbury will cost around £39 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £38.
Fast trains
On Mon 26 Oct, we found 2 trains from Bournemouth to Canterbury, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 216 km distance in an average of 5 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 38 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 38 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:565h38Bournemouth14:34Canterbury£381One-way0 changes- 7:565h38Bournemouth13:34Canterbury£391One-way0 changes
- 8:565h38Bournemouth14:34Canterbury£381One-way0 changes
- 7:565h38Bournemouth13:34Canterbury£391One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Bournemouth to Canterbury
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Bournemouth to Canterbury run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £36 but you can travel from only £16 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:18, the last at 21:23. The fastest train covers the 216 km distance in 2h 59m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £16
Distance 216 km |
Average train duration 3h 36m |
Cheapest ticket price £36 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 59m |
First train 5:18 |
Last train 21:23 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £16
Frequently asked questions about your Bournemouth to Canterbury trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
The cost of a train ticket from Bournemouth to Canterbury can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £36, while the average price tends to be around £67.
The train journey from Bournemouth to Canterbury covers a distance of 216 km and takes approximately 2h 59m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Bournemouth to Canterbury is 216 km.
The first train from Bournemouth to Canterbury leaves at 5:18.
The last train from Bournemouth to Canterbury departs at 21:23.
Trains from Bournemouth to Canterbury run approximately 6 times per day.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Live departures
Bournemouth to Canterbury train times
The table below shows live departures for Bournemouth to Canterbury trains for today, Sunday 25 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 17:06 Bournemouth | 4h12 | 21:18 Canterbury | 1 change | |
| 18:06 Bournemouth | 4h12 | 22:18 Canterbury | 1 change | |
| 19:06 Bournemouth | 4h12 | 23:18 Canterbury | 1 change | |
| 20:06 Bournemouth | 4h12 | 0:18 Canterbury | 1 change | |
| Monday 26 October | |||||
| 7:56 Bournemouth | 5h38 | 13:34 Canterbury | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:56 Bournemouth | 5h38 | 14:34 Canterbury | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Bournemouth to Canterbury trains with Omio?
South Western Railway as well as Southern or CrossCountry offer trains services from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Why book with Omio vs South Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for South Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Southern or CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare South Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Southern or CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Train companies: South Western Railway, Southern, CrossCountry from Bournemouth to Canterbury trainsSouth Western Railway, Southern, CrossCountry trains will get you between Bournemouth and Canterbury from £16. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
South Western Railway
About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
3h 3m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£36
South Western Railway frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone
Southern
About
Southern Rail is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local commuter services. Its trains include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, and Class 444 and 450. It also offers a variety of ticket types, such as Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southern Rail are London to Brighton, London to Southampton, and London to Portsmouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Southern Duration
4h 11m
Cheapest Southern Price
£38
Southern frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require a ticket
Quiet zone
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
2h 59m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£81
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Bournemouth and Canterbury
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
There is no night train service from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
Complete guide to Canterbury
Things to do in Canterbury
Discover the best of Canterbury — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Canterbury trip today.
- Recommended
Canterbury Roman Museum
Interactive museum on the site of Roman Canterbury, with preserved pavement mosaics, finds and family-friendly interpretation underground.
- Recommended
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
Local museum and gallery with art, ceramics, natural history and changing displays. Good for a broad introduction to the city and region.
- Recommended
The King's Mile
Historic pedestrian street lined with timber-framed buildings, shops and cafés. A classic place to experience Canterbury’s medieval townscape.
- Recommended
Westgate Gardens
A landscaped public garden beside the old city walls. Popular for riverside walks, flower displays and a relaxing break near the centre.
Dane John Gardens
A peaceful green beside the River Stour and cathedral precinct. Ideal for a short scenic walk, picnic or photographs of the city’s historic core.
- Vegetarian
Kentish Huffkin
Kentish Huffkin is a traditional Kent bread roll, often served filled with ham, cheese or fruit. It is a long-standing local bakery staple across East Kent.
- Vegetarian
Canterbury Tart
Canterbury Tart is a local jam tart linked with the city, typically made with shortcrust pastry and apple or berry jam. It is a classic Kent teatime bake.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Kentish Cobnuts
Kentish Cobnuts are cultivated hazelnuts from Kent, prized for their sweet flavour and strong county identity. They are eaten fresh, roasted or in desserts.
The Corner House
Popular city-centre bistro serving modern British dishes in a relaxed, stylish setting. Well regarded for brunch, lunch and seasonal dinners.
Chapman's Seafood Bar & Brasserie
Elegant restaurant focused on seafood and modern British cooking. A refined but welcoming choice for a special meal near the city centre.
The Parrot
Historic pub with traditional interiors, local ales and hearty British food. A good place to try Kentish beer in a characterful setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: hotels and dining are pricier than smaller UK towns, but local buses and casual meals stay manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafes: rounding up is enough. Taxis: round up or add about 10% for good service.
Stagecoach Bus App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3
- Day pass
- £4.90
To the city centre
Canterbury West -> Canterbury Bus Station, Canterbury
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Stagecoach says Canterbury single bus fares are capped at £3, and DayRider tickets are sold in the Stagecoach Bus App.
- Canterbury City Council says Park and Ride tickets can be bought on board. Contactless card payment is commonly available on Stagecoach buses, but check when boarding.
Plan your visit to Canterbury
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Canterbury.
The train journey from Bournemouth to Canterbury offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through picturesque landscapes of the South Downs, charming villages, and stretches of coastline, making it a pleasant and varied visual experience.
Best day trips from Canterbury by train
The most popular day trips by train from Canterbury are London, Dover, Whitstable, Margate and Ramsgate. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Canterbury on Omio.
Day trip from Canterbury to London by train
Why visit London for the day?
London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.
How to get from Canterbury to London by train?
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 87 km distance in 53m.
Day trip from Canterbury to Dover by train
Why visit Dover for the day?
Dover is a historic Kent port known for the White Cliffs and Dover Castle. Its busy harbour, wartime past and chalk coastline give the town a distinctly maritime character.
How to get from Canterbury to Dover by train?
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 22 km distance in 28m.
Day trip from Canterbury to Whitstable by train
Why visit Whitstable for the day?
Whitstable is a north Kent seaside town known for oysters, a working harbour and a relaxed maritime feel. Its shingle beach, beach huts and independent cafés give it an easy-going character shaped by fishing traditions.
How to get from Canterbury to Whitstable by train?
The earliest train runs at 04:59, the last at 23:47. The fastest train covers the 10 km distance in 16m.
Day trip from Canterbury to Margate by train
Why visit Margate for the day?
Margate is a Kent seaside town known for its sandy beach, Dreamland and the Turner Contemporary. Its old town, tidal pool and broad seafront give it a relaxed character that blends resort nostalgia with a lively creative scene.
How to get from Canterbury to Margate by train?
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:35, the last at 23:47. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 33m.
Day trip from Canterbury to Ramsgate by train
Why visit Ramsgate for the day?
Ramsgate is a Kent seaside town known for its Royal Harbour, elegant seafront and sandy beach. Its maritime history, links to the Dunkirk evacuation and lively waterfront give it a practical, historic character.
How to get from Canterbury to Ramsgate by train?
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:43. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 21m.
FAQs: Bournemouth to Canterbury train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bournemouth to Canterbury by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Canterbury, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Booking trains from Bournemouth to Canterbury in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Bournemouth to Canterbury.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Bournemouth and Canterbury
Most Bournemouth to Canterbury trains use the Bournemouth to Canterbury West station pair, with some services arriving at Canterbury East. Use this guide to compare Bournemouth and Canterbury train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Bournemouth
Arrival train stations in Canterbury
Which Bournemouth station do trains to Canterbury leave from?
Trains from Bournemouth to Canterbury leave from Bournemouth. The station is 1 km from Bournemouth city centre at Bournemouth station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8HX.
BournemouthBournemouth station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8HX+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Bournemouth from Bournemouth city centre
Bournemouth is 1 km from Bournemouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 5, 6, 50, m1, 12, 13A, N5, N1, 11, 21 · 6m · £2 · every ~74 min
m1, 5, 6, 50, 13, 12, 13A, 21, 11, N5, N1 · 7m · £2 · every ~74 min
Bournemouth train station facilities and services
Bournemouth has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bournemouth.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bournemouth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bournemouth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bournemouth: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bournemouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bournemouth: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B2 station. Level access to both sides of station from separate entrances. Long and steep ramped subway between platforms - up to 1:8 gradient Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Canterbury station do trains from Bournemouth arrive at?
Trains from Bournemouth to Canterbury most often arrive at Canterbury West. Some services arrive at Canterbury East, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Canterbury arrival station.
Canterbury WestCanterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury West from Canterbury city centre
Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · £3 · every ~22 min
Canterbury West train station facilities and services
Canterbury West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury West. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: two within concourse, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Canterbury EastCanterbury East station, Station Road East, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2RB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury East from Canterbury city centre
Bus649 · 9m
Canterbury East train station facilities and services
Canterbury East has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury East.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Canterbury East.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury East. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Canterbury East: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury East: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury East: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The Ticket Vending Machines's can only be accessed when the station building is open as they are in the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Bournemouth to Canterbury
Check train stations information for Bournemouth and Canterbury, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Bournemouth that goes to Canterbury is Bournemouth, and it arrives at Canterbury West.
Most popular train connections from Bournemouth
More options for your journey from Bournemouth to Canterbury
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Canterbury and Bournemouth
Most popular train connections to Canterbury
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