Chatham to Bournemouth train with South Western Railway

Tue 20 Oct
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South Western Railway
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chatham to Bournemouth

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Oct

Cheapest price on 20 Oct

£118

Average ticket price on 20 Oct

£144

Fastest journey on 20 Oct

3 h 14 m

Average journey duration on 20 Oct

3 h 14 m

Trains on 20 Oct

16

Distance

184 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Chatham to Bournemouth will cost around £144 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £118.

Fast trains

To travel from Chatham to Bournemouth you need to make at least 4 changes.

  • Southeastern
    22:359h09
    Chatham
    7:44Bournemouth
    £1181One-way
    3 changes
  • Southeastern
    5:543h19
    Chatham
    9:13Bournemouth
    £1451One-way
    4 changes
  • Southeastern
    6:543h19
    Chatham
    10:13Bournemouth
    £1451One-way
    4 changes
  • Southeastern
    7:543h18
    Chatham
    11:12Bournemouth
    £1451One-way
    4 changes
  • Southeastern
    8:583h14
    Chatham
    12:12Bournemouth
    £1451One-way
    4 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chatham to Bournemouth

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Chatham to Bournemouth run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £80 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:26, the last at 22:02. The fastest train covers the 184 km distance in 2h 42m.

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
184 km
Average train duration
2h 51m
Cheapest ticket price
£80
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 42m
First train
4:26
Last train
22:02
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
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

Live departures

Chatham to Bournemouth train times

The table below shows live departures for Chatham to Bournemouth trains for today, Monday 19 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Southeastern5:54 Chatham
3h19
9:13 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern6:54 Chatham
3h19
10:13 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern7:54 Chatham
3h18
11:12 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern8:58 Chatham
3h14
12:12 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern9:58 Chatham
3h17
13:15 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern10:58 Chatham
3h14
14:12 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern11:58 Chatham
3h14
15:12 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern12:58 Chatham
3h14
16:12 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern13:58 Chatham
3h23
17:21 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern14:58 Chatham
3h19
18:17 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern15:58 Chatham
3h16
19:14 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern16:59 Chatham
3h16
20:15 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern17:28 Chatham
3h48
21:16 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern18:28 Chatham
3h47
22:15 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern19:58 Chatham
3h18
23:16 Bournemouth4 changes
Southeastern22:35 Chatham
9h09
7:44 Bournemouth3 changes

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Chatham to Bournemouth trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as CrossCountry offer trains services from Chatham to Bournemouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chatham 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 CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Chatham 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.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Chatham to Bournemouth.

Train companies: South Western Railway, CrossCountry from Chatham to Bournemouth trainsSouth Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Chatham and Bournemouth from £80. 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 47m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£80
South Western Railway frequency
5 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

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 42m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£87
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

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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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.

Best day trips from Bournemouth by train

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

A view of London

Day trip from Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth to London by train?

There are 29 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 151 km distance in 1h 43m.

A view of Southampton

Day trip from Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth to Southampton by train?

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 39 km distance in 26m.

A view of Winchester

Day trip from Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth to Winchester by train?

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 55 km distance in 45m.

A view of Portsmouth

Day trip from Bournemouth to Portsmouth by train

Why visit Portsmouth for the day?

Portsmouth is a waterfront city on England’s south coast, known for its naval heritage and historic dockyard. Its island setting, working harbour and seafront give it a distinctly maritime character, with Old Portsmouth adding older streets and pubs.

How to get from Bournemouth to Portsmouth by train?

The earliest train runs at 04:10, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 56 km distance in 1h 11m.

A view of Salisbury

Day trip from Bournemouth to Salisbury by train

Why visit Salisbury for the day?

Salisbury is best known for its magnificent cathedral and its well-preserved medieval centre. The city feels compact and traditional, with historic streets, a lively market square and easy links to nearby Stonehenge.

How to get from Bournemouth to Salisbury by train?

The earliest train runs at 04:10, the last at 23:16. The fastest train covers the 39 km distance in 57m.

FAQs: Chatham to Bournemouth train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chatham 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.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Chatham to Bournemouth can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £80, while the average price tends to be around £83.
The train journey from Chatham to Bournemouth covers a distance of 184 km and takes approximately 2h 42m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Chatham to Bournemouth is 184 km.
The first train from Chatham to Bournemouth leaves at 4:26.
The last train from Chatham to Bournemouth departs at 22:02.
Trains from Chatham to Bournemouth run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chatham to Bournemouth.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Chatham to Bournemouth.
There is no night train service from Chatham to Bournemouth.
The train station in Chatham that goes to Bournemouth is Chatham station (CTM), and it arrives at Bournemouth station (BMH).
Booking trains from Chatham 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 Chatham to Bournemouth offers varied scenery, including views of the Kent countryside, rolling landscapes, and glimpses of residential towns, but it is not typically known for being particularly scenic compared to routes through more dramatic landscapes like those in the Scottish Highlands or the Lake District.
Yes, you can take the train from Chatham to Bournemouth.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Chatham and Bournemouth

Most Chatham to Bournemouth trains use the Chatham to Bournemouth station pair. Use this guide to compare Chatham and Bournemouth train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Chatham
Arrival train stations in Bournemouth

Which Chatham station do trains to Bournemouth leave from?

Trains from Chatham to Bournemouth leave from Chatham. The station is from Chatham city centre at Chatham station, Railway Street, Chatham, Kent, ME4 6PN.
ChathamChatham station, Railway Street, Chatham, Kent, ME4 6PN+44 3303339232ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Chatham from Chatham city centre

Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stop B in the bus interchange, to the right of the station entrance

Chatham train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Chatham.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Chatham.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Chatham. 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 Chatham: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Chatham: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Chatham: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B2. This station has a degree of step-free access to the platform, which may be in both directions or in one direction only - please check details - Step free access to platform 1 for services to London via ramp to car park. Step free access to platform 2 for services away from London via ramp from Railway Street. Step free interchange via road and steep paths is in excess of 250 metres. Step access between platforms available via the booking hall, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: In the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Sunday 24 Hours a Day Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

More options for your journey from Chatham to Bournemouth

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