- Recommended
Southend Central Museum and Planetarium
Museum beside Prittlewell Priory covering local archaeology, social history and natural history. A strong introduction to Southend and Essex.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea
Showing times and prices for 14 Aug
Cheapest price
£30
Average price
£44
Fastest journey
2 h 32 m
Average duration
2 h 44 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
84 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea will cost around £44 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £30.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Cambridge for Southend-on-Sea every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 84 km distance in an average of 2 h 44 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 32 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 52 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.
8:182h32Cambridge10:50Southend-on-Sea£301One-way0 changes- 7:092h41Cambridge9:50Southend-on-Sea£301One-way0 changes
8:212h52Cambridge11:13Southend-on-Sea£581One-way0 changes- 13:212h49Cambridge16:10Southend-on-Sea£581One-way0 changes
- 8:182h32Cambridge10:50Southend-on-Sea£301One-way0 changes
- 7:092h41Cambridge9:50Southend-on-Sea£301One-way0 changes
- 13:212h49Cambridge16:10Southend-on-Sea£581One-way0 changes
- 8:212h52Cambridge11:13Southend-on-Sea£581One-way0 changes
Live departures
Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea train times
The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea trains for tomorrow, Friday 14 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:09 Cambridge | 2h41 | 9:50 Southend-on-Sea | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:18 Cambridge | 2h32 | 10:50 Southend-on-Sea | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:21 Cambridge | 2h52 | 11:13 Southend-on-Sea | 0 changesdirect | |
| 13:21 Cambridge | 2h49 | 16:10 Southend-on-Sea | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea by train
Compare train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Fri
14 Aug
14 Aug
Sat
15 Aug
15 Aug
Sun
16 Aug
16 Aug
Mon
17 Aug
17 Aug
Tue
18 Aug
18 Aug
Wed
19 Aug
19 Aug
Thu
20 Aug
20 Aug
Why should you book Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia operates all trains services from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea.
Why book with Omio vs Greater Anglia?
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £23 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:00, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 84 km distance in 2h 24m.
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
Distance 84 km |
Average train duration 2h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price £23 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 24m |
First train 4:00 |
Last train 22:50 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 28 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
Train companies: Greater Anglia from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea trainsGreater Anglia trains will get you between Cambridge and Southend-on-Sea from £23. 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 Duration
2h 24m
Cheapest Price
£23
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
Complete guide to Southend-on-Sea
Things to do in Southend-on-Sea
Discover the best of Southend-on-Sea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southend-on-Sea trip today.
- Recommended
Prittlewell Priory
Historic house museum in Priory Park with restored rooms, monastic remains and displays on local life. Good for history and architecture.
Southend Pier Museum
Compact museum at the end of the pier exploring the pier’s engineering, railway and seaside heritage. Worth adding to a pier visit.
- Must visit
Southend Seafront
Popular beachfront promenade for walking, cycling and sea views, linking the pier, gardens and classic seaside attractions.
- Recommended
Old Leigh
Lively old fishing quarter with cobbled lanes, cockle sheds, pubs, small galleries and estuary views. Full of local character.
- Recommended
Priory Park
Large park with formal gardens, lake, play areas and the priory complex. A pleasant green space for walks near the centre.
Fish and chips
Freshly landed fish, usually cod or haddock, in batter with chips. A classic Essex seaside meal tied to Southend’s long pier and beachfront chippies.
- Gluten-free
Essex oysters
Briny native or rock oysters from the Thames Estuary area, traditionally eaten very fresh. They reflect the long shellfish heritage of the Essex coast.
Potted shrimps or local prawns
Sweet, delicate prawns from the nearby North Sea and estuary waters, often served simply with bread and butter. A long-standing local seafood favourite.
Food
Stylish restaurant in nearby Leigh-on-Sea focused on British seafood and seasonal cooking. Cosy, polished dining room with estuary character.
Osborne Bros
Historic seafront fish restaurant known for oysters, cockles and classic seafood. Traditional, no-frills atmosphere close to the beach.
The Peterboat
Popular seafood restaurant and fishmonger serving fresh local catch, shellfish and grilled fish. Smart but relaxed setting near the seafront.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside city. Dining and hotels cost less than London, but peak summer stays and seafront areas raise prices. Local buses and trains are standard UK-priced.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a basic meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafés and pubs do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city centre
Chalkwell -> Southend Central
- Distance
- 3 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Most local buses accept contactless payment, and First Bus Tap&Cap limits what you pay to the day ticket price.
- For travel across multiple bus operators, the Southend Octopus day ticket is available at £7.00 on participating services.
FAQs: Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £23, while the average price tends to be around £41.
The train journey from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea covers a distance of 84 km and takes approximately 2h 24m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea is 84 km.
The first train from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea leaves at 4:00.
The last train from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea departs at 22:50.
Trains from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea.
To travel from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Southend-on-Sea is Cambridge station (CBG), and it arrives at Southend Victoria (SOV).
The cheapest way to get from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea is by train, costing approximately £23.
Booking trains from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through picturesque countryside and small towns, particularly between Cambridge and Chelmsford. However, the route is primarily focused on efficiency rather than scenic value.
A day trip from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea is not feasible due to a travel time of 2h 24m. However, there are 5 trains per day for this journey, covering a distance of 84 km.
For a fulfilling experience in Southend-on-Sea, two to three days are ideal to explore its main attractions, including the longest pleasure pier in the world, Adventure Island amusement park, and the beautiful coastline.
Yes, you can take the train from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cambridge and Southend-on-Sea
Most Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea trains use the Cambridge to Southend Victoria station pair, with some services arriving at Southend Airport. Use this guide to compare Cambridge and Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea
Which Cambridge station do trains to Southend-on-Sea leave from?
Trains from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea 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 8450507080
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 8450507080
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.
Which Southend-on-Sea station do trains from Cambridge arrive at?
Trains from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea most often arrive at Southend Victoria. Some services arrive at Southend Airport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Southend-on-Sea arrival station.
Southend VictoriaSouthend Victoria station, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6AZ
City-centre transport
Getting to Southend Victoria from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Bus25, 7, 20, 825, 827, 21S, 28, 21, 3, 26, 20S · 3m · £3 · every ~69 min
Southend Victoria train station facilities and services
Southend Victoria has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southend Victoria.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southend Victoria. ATMs are available at Southend Victoria.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southend Victoria. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southend Victoria: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southend Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Victoria: 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: Taxi rank at front of station, 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.
Southend CentralSouthend Central station, Clifftown Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1AB+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Southend Central from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stops on Clifftown Road near The Last Public House
Southend Central train station facilities and services
Southend Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southend Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southend Central. ATMs are available at Southend Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southend Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03457 44 44 22, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southend Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southend Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
PrittlewellPrittlewell station, Station Approach, Prittlewell, Essex, SS2 5BT+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Prittlewell from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Prittlewell is 1 km from Southend-on-Sea city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSouthend Victoria - London Liverpool Street · 2m · £0.90 · every ~6 min
Prittlewell train station facilities and services
Prittlewell has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Prittlewell.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Prittlewell.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Prittlewell.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Prittlewell: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Prittlewell: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Prittlewell: Staff help available: 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, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Cambridge
More options for your journey from Cambridge to Southend-on-Sea
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Southend-on-Sea and Cambridge
Most popular train connections to Southend-on-Sea
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
