Cambridge to Portsmouth train with South Western Railway

Thu 15 Oct
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South Western Railway
Thameslink
Southern
Greater Anglia
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South Western Railway
Thameslink
Southern
Greater Anglia
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cambridge to Portsmouth

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 15 Oct

Cheapest price on 15 Oct

£58

Average ticket price on 15 Oct

£71

Fastest journey on 15 Oct

3 h 17 m

Average journey duration on 15 Oct

3 h 28 m

Trains on 15 Oct

9

Distance

177 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cambridge to Portsmouth will cost around £71 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £58.

Fast trains

To travel from Cambridge to Portsmouth you need to make at least 2 changes.

  • ThameslinkG28268+TubeTube from London Blackfriars to London Waterloo+South Western RailwayL79558
    6:513h53
    Cambridge station (CBG)
    10:44Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
    £581One-way
    2 changes
  • TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Waterloo+South Western RailwayL79547+Great NorthernC82674
    6:253h38
    Cambridge station (CBG)
    10:03Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
    £581One-way
    2 changes
  • TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Waterloo+South Western RailwayL79547+Great NorthernG27002
    6:453h18
    Cambridge South
    10:03Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
    £581One-way
    2 changes
  • TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Waterloo+South Western RailwayL79558+Great NorthernC93325
    7:153h29
    Cambridge South
    10:44Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
    £581One-way
    2 changes
  • ThameslinkG28268+SouthernG26161
    6:513h47
    Cambridge station (CBG)
    10:38Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)
    £821One-way
    1 change

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cambridge to Portsmouth

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cambridge to Portsmouth run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £19 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 04:03, the last at 21:44. The fastest train covers the 177 km distance in 2h 38m.

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 £14
Distance
177 km
Average train duration
3h 17m
Cheapest ticket price
£19
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 38m
First train
4:03
Last train
21:44
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
7 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 £14

Live departures

Cambridge to Portsmouth train times

The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Portsmouth trains for tomorrow, Thursday 15 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
South Western RailwayL79541+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Waterloo+Great NorthernC933176:15 Cambridge South
3h17
9:32 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)2 changes
ThameslinkW45427+SouthernG261586:25 Cambridge South
3h51
10:16 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)1 change
South Western RailwayL79547+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Waterloo+Great NorthernC826746:25 Cambridge station (CBG)
3h38
10:03 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)2 changes
South Western RailwayL79547+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Waterloo+Great NorthernG270026:45 Cambridge South
3h18
10:03 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)2 changes
ThameslinkG28268+SouthernG261616:51 Cambridge station (CBG)
3h47
10:38 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)1 change
ThameslinkG28268+South Western RailwayL79558+TubeTube from London Blackfriars to London Waterloo6:51 Cambridge station (CBG)
3h53
10:44 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)2 changes
ThameslinkG28268+SouthernG261616:55 Cambridge South
3h43
10:38 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)1 change
ThameslinkW32903+SouthernG26161+Great NorthernC826766:59 Cambridge South
3h39
10:38 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)2 changes
South Western RailwayL79558+Great NorthernC93325+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Waterloo7:15 Cambridge South
3h29
10:44 Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS)2 changes

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cambridge to Portsmouth trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as Thameslink, Southern, Greater Anglia and more offer trains services from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Portsmouth.

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 Thameslink, Southern or Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
  • 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cambridge to Portsmouth.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

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

Train companies: South Western Railway, Thameslink, Southern, Greater Anglia from Cambridge to Portsmouth trainsSouth Western Railway, Thameslink, Southern, Greater Anglia trains will get you between Cambridge and Portsmouth from £14. 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
2h 38m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£19
South Western Railway frequency
3 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
3h 22m
Cheapest Southern Price
£31
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

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
3h 15m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£36
Greater Anglia frequency
1 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

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
3h 17m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
£31
Thameslink frequency
2 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

Complete guide to Portsmouth

Things to do in Portsmouth

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

  • Must visit

HMS Victory

A major naval museum where visitors can board Nelson’s flagship and explore life at sea through preserved decks and displays.

  • Recommended

HMS Alliance

This working museum ship reveals cramped Victorian submarine life and the engineering behind one of Britain’s earliest submarines.

  • Recommended

Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery

Portsmouth’s city museum covers local history, football heritage and art, with exhibits spanning the city’s people and places.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels can be pricey in summer, but dining and local buses remain manageable for most city-break budgets.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 10-12.5% if not already added. Taxis: round up or 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated for table service.

Best day trips from Portsmouth by train

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

A view of Southampton

Day trip from Portsmouth to Southampton by train

Why visit Southampton for the day?

Southampton is a maritime city on England’s south coast, known for its ocean liner history and links to the Titanic. Medieval walls and museums stand near a busy waterfront and modern shopping centre, giving it a lively yet practical feel.

How to get from Portsmouth to Southampton by train?

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 25 km distance in 39m.

A view of Chichester

Day trip from Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Chichester by train?

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:54. The fastest train covers the 22 km distance in 22m.

A view of Brighton

Day trip from Portsmouth to Brighton by train

Why visit Brighton for the day?

Brighton is a lively seaside city known for its pebble beach, Victorian pier and the Royal Pavilion. Its bohemian lanes, independent shops and strong arts scene give it a relaxed but energetic character.

How to get from Portsmouth to Brighton by train?

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:40, the last at 23:05. The fastest train covers the 67 km distance in 1h 15m.

A view of London

Day trip from Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to London by train?

There are 71 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 104 km distance in 1h 24m.

A view of Winchester

Day trip from Portsmouth to Winchester by train

Why visit Winchester for the day?

Winchester is a historic Hampshire city known for its cathedral, medieval streets and links to King Alfred the Great. Once an Anglo-Saxon capital, it feels compact, walkable and quietly elegant.

How to get from Portsmouth to Winchester by train?

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:43. The fastest train covers the 34 km distance in 45m.

FAQs: Cambridge to Portsmouth train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Cambridge to Portsmouth can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £19, while the average price tends to be around £48.
The train journey from Cambridge to Portsmouth covers a distance of 177 km and takes approximately 2h 38m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Cambridge to Portsmouth is 177 km.
The first train from Cambridge to Portsmouth leaves at 4:03.
The last train from Cambridge to Portsmouth departs at 21:44.
Trains from Cambridge to Portsmouth run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
There is no night train service from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Portsmouth is Cambridge station (CBG), and it arrives at Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS).
Booking trains from Cambridge to Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth is not typically considered scenic, as it primarily passes through urban and suburban areas, with occasional countryside views.
Yes, you can take the train from Cambridge to Portsmouth.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Cambridge and Portsmouth

Most Cambridge to Portsmouth trains use the Cambridge to Portsmouth & Southsea station pair, with some services arriving at Portsmouth Harbour. Use this guide to compare Cambridge and Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth

Which Cambridge station do trains to Portsmouth leave from?

Trains from Cambridge to Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth

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