Canterbury to Southampton train with South Western Railway

Thu 13 Aug
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South Western Railway
Southeastern
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
Southeastern
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Canterbury to Southampton

Showing times and prices for 13 Aug

Cheapest price

£32

Average price

£32

Fastest journey

4 h 42 m

Average duration

4 h 42 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

178 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Canterbury to Southampton will cost around £32 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £32.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Canterbury for Southampton every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 178 km distance in an average of 4 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 42 m .

The slowest trains will take 4 h 42 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.

  • Southern
    6:494h42
    Canterbury
    11:31Southampton
    £321One-way
    0 changes

Travel Information

Compare coach and train for Canterbury to Southampton

Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Canterbury to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 41m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £17, and a train costs an average of £31.

Distance: 178 km

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Coach

£42

Average Price

£26

Average Price

Cheapest

3h 11m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 13m

Average total duration

4h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

South Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Canterbury to Southampton train times

The table below shows live departures for Canterbury to Southampton trains for tomorrow, Thursday 13 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Southern6:49 Canterbury
4h42
11:31 Southampton0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Canterbury to Southampton 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.

Thu
13 Aug
Fri
14 Aug
Sat
15 Aug
Sun
16 Aug
Mon
17 Aug
Tue
18 Aug
Wed
19 Aug

Why should you book Canterbury to Southampton trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as Southeastern offer trains services from Canterbury to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Canterbury to Southampton.

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 Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Canterbury to Southampton.
  • 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 Southampton.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Canterbury to Southampton.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Canterbury to Southampton.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Canterbury to Southampton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Canterbury to Southampton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £31 but you can travel from only £17 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 178 km distance in 3h 20m.

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 £17
Distance
178 km
Average train duration
2h 41m
Cheapest ticket price
£31
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 20m
First train
4:25
Last train
21:30
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 £17

Train companies: South Western Railway, Southeastern from Canterbury to Southampton trainsSouth Western Railway, Southeastern trains will get you between Canterbury and Southampton from £17. 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 Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Price
£76
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

Southeastern

About
Southeastern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to Kent, Sussex, Surrey and parts of East Anglia. It runs services from early morning until late at night, seven days a week. Southeastern has a range of train types, including high-speed Javelin trains, commuter-friendly Metro services, and the classic InterCity services. Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southeastern are London to Kent, London to Eastbourne, and London to Hastings.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 22m
Cheapest Price
£97
Southeastern frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Southampton

Things to do in Southampton

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

  • Must visit

SeaCity Museum

Maritime museum telling the story of the Titanic, the docks and ocean travel. One of Southampton’s key visitor attractions.

  • Recommended

Tudor House and Garden

Historic house museum with period rooms and displays on local history. A rewarding visit in the heart of the old town.

  • Recommended

Southampton City Art Gallery

Gallery in the Civic Centre showing art from several periods, including modern British works. Good for a cultural stop in the city centre.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for UK city breaks. Hotels and dining cost less than London, while buses and casual meals are fairly manageable for most tourists.

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
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants may add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10% for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafés is optional.

FAQs: Canterbury to Southampton train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Canterbury to Southampton can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £31, while the average price tends to be around £42.
The train journey from Canterbury to Southampton covers a distance of 178 km and takes approximately 3h 20m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Canterbury to Southampton is 178 km.
The first train from Canterbury to Southampton leaves at 4:25.
The last train from Canterbury to Southampton departs at 21:30.
Trains from Canterbury to Southampton run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Canterbury to Southampton.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Canterbury to Southampton.
To get from Canterbury to Southampton, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Canterbury to Southampton.
The train station in Canterbury that goes to Southampton is Canterbury West (CBW), and it arrives at Southampton Central (SOU).
The cheapest way to get from Canterbury to Southampton is by coach, costing approximately £17.
Booking trains from Canterbury to Southampton 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 Southampton is not particularly known for its scenic views, as it primarily passes through urban and suburban areas, with glimpses of the English countryside.
A day trip from Canterbury to Southampton is not feasible as the journey time is 3h 20m. Trains operate 6 times per day.
In Southampton, you can explore the New Forest National Park for hiking and cycling, take the Hythe Ferry for a scenic trip to Hythe, and enjoy shopping at Westquay Shopping Centre. Visit the Ocean Village Marina for dining and leisure activities, or relax at Southampton Common. Discover the city's history at the Tudor House and Garden, SeaCity Museum, and Solent Sky Museum. Art enthusiasts can visit the Southampton City Art Gallery, while theatre lovers can catch performances at the Mayflower Theatre.
For a well-rounded experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Southampton allows you to explore key attractions such as the SeaCity Museum, Tudor House and Garden, and the vibrant waterfront.
Yes, you can take the train from Canterbury to Southampton.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Canterbury and Southampton

Most Canterbury to Southampton trains use the Canterbury West to Southampton Central station pair, with some services arriving at Woolston. Use this guide to compare Canterbury and Southampton 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 Southampton

Which Canterbury station do trains to Southampton leave from?

Trains from Canterbury to Southampton 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 3303339232ParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
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 3303339232ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
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.

More options for your journey from Canterbury to Southampton

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

HomeTrainsTrain Times to Southampton Canterbury to Southampton train

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