Cambridge to Brighton train with Thameslink

Mon 12 Oct
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Thameslink
Southern
Gatwick Express
Greater Anglia
Great Northern
2,000+ travel companies
Thameslink
Southern
Gatwick Express
Greater Anglia
Great Northern
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cambridge to Brighton

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 12 Oct

Cheapest price on 12 Oct

£16

Average ticket price on 12 Oct

£33

Fastest journey on 12 Oct

2 h 27 m

Average journey duration on 12 Oct

2 h 27 m

Trains on 12 Oct

3

Distance

154 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cambridge to Brighton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cambridge to Brighton will cost around £33 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £16.

Fast trains

On Mon 12 Oct, we found 3 trains from Cambridge to Brighton, including 3 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 154 km distance in an average of 2 h 27 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 27 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 27 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.

  • Thameslink
    9:512h27
    Cambridge
    12:18Brighton
    £161One-way
    0 changes
  • Thameslink
    10:512h27
    Cambridge
    13:18Brighton
    £241One-way
    0 changes
  • Thameslink
    7:512h27
    Cambridge
    10:18Brighton
    £601One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cambridge to Brighton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cambridge to Brighton run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £24 but you can travel from only £5 by coach.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:43, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 154 km distance in 1h 55m.

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 £5
Distance
154 km
Average train duration
2h 25m
Cheapest ticket price
£24
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
1h 55m
First train
3:43
Last train
23:53
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
1 day
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 £5

Live departures

Cambridge to Brighton train times

The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Brighton trains for today, Sunday 11 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Southern10:23 Cambridge
3h16
13:39 Brighton0 changesdirect
Greater Anglia10:57 Cambridge
3h08
14:05 Brighton0 changesdirect
Monday 12 October
Thameslink7:51 Cambridge
2h27
10:18 Brighton0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cambridge to Brighton trains with Omio?

Thameslink as well as Southern, Gatwick Express, Greater Anglia, Great Northern and more offer trains services from Cambridge to Brighton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Brighton.

Why book with Omio vs Thameslink?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of Southern, Gatwick Express, Greater Anglia or Great Northern to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Brighton.
  • 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 Thameslink with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cambridge to Brighton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Southern, Gatwick Express, Greater Anglia or Great Northern to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Brighton.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cambridge to Brighton.

Train companies: Thameslink, Greater Anglia, Gatwick Express, Southern, Great Northern from Cambridge to Brighton trainsThameslink, Greater Anglia, Gatwick Express, Southern, Great Northern trains will get you between Cambridge and Brighton from £5. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Greater Anglia

About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greater Anglia Duration
2h 27m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£45
Greater Anglia frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
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
2h 8m
Cheapest Southern Price
£45
Southern frequency
2 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

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Thameslink Duration
2h 9m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
£24
Thameslink frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Great Northern

About
Great Northern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and sleeper services. The high-speed trains are called InterCity Express Trains and they offer a fast and comfortable journey between major cities. The regional trains are called Regional Express Trains and they provide a slower but more frequent service to smaller towns and villages. The sleeper services are called Caledonian Sleeper Trains and they offer overnight journeys with comfortable sleeping compartments. Great Northern offers a variety of ticket types, including single, return, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Great Northern are London to Cambridge, London to Peterborough, and London to Norwich. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Northern Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest Great Northern Price
£45
Great Northern frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free, maximum two dogs per passenger, must be on lead
Quiet zone

Gatwick Express

About
Gatwick Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates between London Victoria and Gatwick Airport, with trains running every 15 minutes throughout the day. The trains are modern and comfortable, with air-conditioning and free Wi-Fi. There are two types of trains: the Gatwick Express and the Southern service. The Gatwick Express is the fastest service, taking just 30 minutes to reach the airport. The Southern service takes a few minutes longer but offers more stops along the way.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Gatwick Express Duration
1h 55m
Cheapest Gatwick Express Price
£45
Gatwick Express frequency
2 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
Refunds available according to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Snack trolley service available on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, staff assistance for boarding and alighting
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead.

Complete guide to Brighton

Things to do in Brighton

Discover the best of Brighton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Brighton trip today.

  • Recommended

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Contemporary art gallery in the Royal Pavilion Garden, showing major exhibitions in a restored historic building.

  • Recommended

Brighton Museum & Art Gallery

Museum inside the Royal Pavilion Estate covering local history, fashion, decorative art and changing exhibitions.

Centre for Contemporary Arts Brighton

Seafront gallery dedicated to photography and contemporary visual culture, with changing exhibitions and events.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for a UK seaside city. Hotels and dining are pricier than many British towns, but buses, casual eats and supermarket options help keep daily costs manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is common for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.

Best day trips from Brighton by train

The most popular day trips by train from Brighton are London, Lewes, Eastbourne, Hastings and Chichester. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Brighton on Omio.

A view of London

Day trip from Brighton 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 Brighton to London by train?

There are 15 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 76 km distance in 54m.

A view of Lewes

Day trip from Brighton to Lewes by train

Why visit Lewes for the day?

Lewes is a historic East Sussex town known for its castle, independent shops and famous Bonfire Night celebrations. On the edge of the South Downs, it mixes medieval streets, old pubs and literary and political history.

How to get from Brighton to Lewes by train?

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 12 km distance in 14m.

A view of Eastbourne

Day trip from Brighton to Eastbourne by train

Why visit Eastbourne for the day?

Eastbourne is a south coast seaside town known for its Victorian seafront, long promenade and beach near Beachy Head. It feels more traditional and relaxed than larger resorts, with theatres, gardens and access to the South Downs.

How to get from Brighton to Eastbourne by train?

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 31 km distance in 32m.

A view of Hastings

Day trip from Brighton to Hastings by train

Why visit Hastings for the day?

Hastings is a historic seaside town known for the 1066 battle nearby, its fishing fleet and its compact Old Town. It combines shingle beaches and cliff views with a creative, slightly rough-edged coastal character.

How to get from Brighton to Hastings by train?

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 50 km distance in 1h 4m.

A view of Chichester

Day trip from Brighton to Chichester by train

Why visit Chichester for the day?

Chichester is a small cathedral city in West Sussex with Roman roots and a strong Georgian character. It is known for Chichester Cathedral, the Festival Theatre and its easy link to the South Downs and nearby coast.

How to get from Brighton to Chichester by train?

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:50. The fastest train covers the 45 km distance in 45m.

Trains from Cambridge to Brighton

Trains from Cambridge to Brighton are provided by ThamesLink, Southern Rail, Great Northern, and Abellio Greater Anglia. All services have at least two changes, and some may have three. Most journeys last around two and a half - three and a half hours, but late night services may take up to 6 hours. Trains start early in the morning, with the first service departing after 5:00 a.m., and continue throughout the day and evening. The last service leaves after 11:00 p.m. Trains from Cambridge to Brighton depart from Cambridge Train Station on Station Plac, close to the Botanic Garden. They arrive at Brighton Station on Terminus Road, 5 minutes' walk from the beach.

FAQs: Cambridge to Brighton train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge to Brighton 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 Brighton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Cambridge to Brighton can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £24, while the average price tends to be around £47.
The train journey from Cambridge to Brighton covers a distance of 154 km and takes approximately 1h 55m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Cambridge to Brighton is 154 km.
The first train from Cambridge to Brighton leaves at 3:43.
The last train from Cambridge to Brighton departs at 23:53.
Trains from Cambridge to Brighton run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cambridge to Brighton.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cambridge and Brighton. The service operates 4 times per day, provided by Thameslink.
There is no night train service from Cambridge to Brighton.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Brighton is Cambridge station (CBG), and it arrives at Brighton station (BTN).
Booking trains from Cambridge to Brighton in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Cambridge to Brighton offers varied scenery, including picturesque countryside views, charming English villages, and glimpses of the South Downs, providing a pleasant visual experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Cambridge to Brighton.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cambridge and Brighton

Most Cambridge to Brighton trains use the Cambridge to Brighton station pair, with some services arriving at London Road (Brighton). Use this guide to compare Cambridge and Brighton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cambridge
Arrival train stations in Brighton

Which Cambridge station do trains to Brighton leave from?

Trains from Cambridge to Brighton leave from Cambridge. The station is 2 km from Cambridge city centre at Cambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW.
CambridgeCambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW+44 8450507080WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Cambridge from Cambridge city centre

Cambridge is 1 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:

BusU1, U2 · 11m · every ~11 min
Tour · 13m · £2
75 · 15m
A · 15m · £2 · every ~11 min

Cambridge train station facilities and services

Cambridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cambridge.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge. ATMs are available at Cambridge.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cambridge.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cambridge: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cambridge: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Cambridge SouthTrumpington, Cambridge CB2 9FQ, UK
Cambridge NorthCambridge North Station, Cowley Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0WZ+44 8450507080WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cambridge North from Cambridge city centre

Cambridge North is 3 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLondon Liverpool Street - Cambridge North, Stansted Airport - Norwich, Cambridge - Norwich, London Liverpool Street - Ely, Stansted Airport - Lowestoft, Cambridge - Cambridge North, Bishops Stortford - Cambridge North, Audley End - Cambridge North, Audley End - Norwich · 3m · £2 · every ~6 min
BusB · 12m · £2 · every ~8 min
114 · 18m
2, B · 23m · £2 · every ~19 min

Cambridge North train station facilities and services

Cambridge North has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cambridge North.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge North.

Tickets and information

Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cambridge North: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cambridge North: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge North: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

More options for your journey from Cambridge to Brighton

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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