- Must visit
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Town-centre museum with local history, archaeology and changing exhibitions in a Victorian villa beside Bournemouth's gardens.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Canterbury to Bournemouth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Sept
Cheapest price on 20 Sept
£42
Average ticket price on 20 Sept
£42
Fastest journey on 20 Sept
5 h 28 m
Average journey duration on 20 Sept
5 h 28 m
Trains on 20 Sept
1
Distance
216 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Canterbury to Bournemouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Canterbury to Bournemouth will cost around £42 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £42.
Fast trains
On Sun 20 Sept, we found 1 trains from Canterbury to Bournemouth, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 216 km distance in an average of 5 h 28 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 28 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 28 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.
12:065h28Canterbury17:34Bournemouth£421One-way0 changes
- 12:065h28Canterbury17:34Bournemouth£421One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Canterbury to Bournemouth
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Canterbury to Bournemouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £28 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 11m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £28, while a train costs an average of £38.
Distance: 216 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£38 Average Price | £28 Average Price Cheapest | £43 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 11m Average total duration Fastest 3h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 23m Average total duration 4h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Canterbury to Bournemouth is a coach with an average price of £28.
This is compared to other travel options from Canterbury to Bournemouth:
A coach is £11 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Canterbury to Bournemouth costing on average £38.
The fastest way to travel from Canterbury to Bournemouth is by train with an average journey time of 3h 41m.
Other travel options to Bournemouth take longer:
Coach takes on average 4h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Canterbury and Bournemouth including taking a coach and train.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around £38 compared to roughly £43 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £5. The journey takes 3h 41m versus 2h 49m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Compare prices and tickets Canterbury to Bournemouth by coach or train
Compare coach and 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.
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Why should you book Canterbury to Bournemouth trains with Omio?
South Western Railway as well as Southern or CrossCountry offer trains services from Canterbury to Bournemouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Canterbury to Bournemouth.
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 Canterbury to Bournemouth.
- 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 Canterbury to Bournemouth.
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 Canterbury to Bournemouth.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Canterbury to Bournemouth.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Canterbury to Bournemouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Canterbury to Bournemouth run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £38 but you can travel from only £23 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:20, the last at 21:23. The fastest train covers the 216 km distance in 2h 56m.
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 £23
Distance 216 km |
Average train duration 3h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price £38 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 56m |
First train 5:20 |
Last train 21:23 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 £23
Train companies: Southern, CrossCountry, South Western Railway from Canterbury to Bournemouth trainsSouthern, CrossCountry, South Western Railway trains will get you between Canterbury and Bournemouth from £23. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 56m
Cheapest Southern Price
£38
Southern frequency
3 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 56m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£80
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
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 6m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£49
South Western Railway frequency
2 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
Complete guide to Bournemouth
Things to do in Bournemouth
Discover the best of Bournemouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bournemouth trip today.
- Recommended
Hengistbury Head Visitor Centre
Small local museum on Hengistbury Head covering archaeology, wildlife and the headland's long human history in a scenic coastal setting.
The Gallery at The Library
Free gallery inside Bournemouth Library showing contemporary art exhibitions, talks and touring displays in a central location.
- Must visit
Bournemouth Beach
Historic pier and broad sandy beach at the town's heart, ideal for classic seaside walks, swimming and views along the bay.
- Must visit
Lower Gardens
Landscaped Victorian gardens running through the centre, popular for gentle walks, seasonal events and a green route to the seafront.
- Must visit
Hengistbury Head
Headland nature reserve with walking trails, harbour views, heathland and archaeology, popular for longer coastal walks and birdwatching.
- Gluten-free
Dorset Crab
Fresh crab landed on the Dorset coast, prized for sweet meat and often served simply dressed to showcase local seafood traditions.
- Gluten-free
Lyme Bay Scallops
Hand-dived scallops from nearby Lyme Bay, a South Coast speciality valued for freshness and the region’s strong shellfish heritage.
- Gluten-free
Dorset Blue Vinny
Traditional Dorset Blue Vinny cheese with a firm, crumbly texture and robust flavour, long associated with Dorset farming and cheesemaking.
The Dining Room at The Nici
Refined dining room in a historic hotel, serving modern British cooking in an elegant setting overlooking the gardens.
WestBeach
Established seafood spot on West Cliff, popular for fish dishes, sea views and a smart but approachable atmosphere.
The Lych Gate Tavern
Traditional pub near the town centre serving local ales and classic British meals in a historic, characterful setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside resort. Hotels rise in summer, but dining and local buses are usually cheaper than in London or Bath.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is typical if service is not included. Round up for taxis, and small change is fine in cafés.
Morebus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.20
To the city centre
Bournemouth Railway Station -> Bournemouth Town Centre (The Square)
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
Best option: Morebus service to Bournemouth Town Centre
- Price
- £3.00
- Duration
- 10 min
- Use the Morebus app or tap on with the same contactless card to get Zone A Dayrider pricing. Paper Dayrider tickets cost more.
- Bournemouth’s main urban buses are operated by Morebus. Bournemouth Railway Station is about a 10-minute walk or short bus ride from The Square.
FAQs: Canterbury to Bournemouth train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Canterbury to Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Canterbury to Bournemouth can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £38, while the average price tends to be around £38.
The train journey from Canterbury to Bournemouth covers a distance of 216 km and takes approximately 5h 40m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Canterbury to Bournemouth is 216 km.
The first train from Canterbury to Bournemouth leaves at 5:20.
The last train from Canterbury to Bournemouth departs at 21:23.
Trains from Canterbury to Bournemouth run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Canterbury to Bournemouth.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Canterbury to Bournemouth.
To get from Canterbury to Bournemouth, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Canterbury to Bournemouth.
The train station in Canterbury that goes to Bournemouth is Canterbury West (CBW), and it arrives at Bournemouth station (BMH).
The cheapest way to get from Canterbury to Bournemouth is by coach, costing approximately £23.
Booking trains from Canterbury to Bournemouth in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Canterbury to Bournemouth offers a mix of urban and countryside views, passing through rolling hills, charming villages, and coastal scenery, making it a pleasant and moderately scenic route.
A day trip from Canterbury to Bournemouth is not feasible as the journey duration is 5h 40m. Trains operate 6 times per day, covering a distance of 216 km.
In Bournemouth, you can explore the Oceanarium, which showcases marine life from around the world, and enjoy the Lower Gardens with its floral displays and seasonal events. Visit Boscombe Chine Gardens for a mini-golf course and water play area, or head to Hengistbury Head for hiking and birdwatching. Discover the Bournemouth Aviation Museum's interactive exhibits on aviation history. Relax at Bournemouth Beach, known for its sandy stretch and water activities, and stroll along the Victorian Bournemouth Pier for entertainment and dining. Art lovers should visit the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum, while St. Peter's Church offers stunning architecture and is the resting place of Mary Shelley. The Bournemouth Gardens provide a perfect setting for leisurely walks and picnics.
A 2 to 3-day visit to Bournemouth is generally sufficient to explore its main attractions, including its beaches, parks, and cultural sites.
Yes, you can take the train from Canterbury to Bournemouth.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Canterbury and Bournemouth
Most Canterbury to Bournemouth trains use the Canterbury West to Bournemouth station pair. Use this guide to compare Canterbury and Bournemouth train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Canterbury
Arrival train stations in Bournemouth
Which Canterbury station do trains to Bournemouth leave from?
Trains from Canterbury to Bournemouth leave from Canterbury West. The station is 1 km from Canterbury city centre at Canterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN.
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.
Which Bournemouth station do trains from Canterbury arrive at?
Trains from Canterbury to Bournemouth arrive at Bournemouth. Bournemouth is 1 km from Bournemouth city centre.
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.
More options for your journey from Canterbury to Bournemouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bournemouth and Canterbury
Most popular train connections to Bournemouth
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