- Must visit
SeaCity Museum
Maritime museum telling the story of the Titanic, the docks and ocean travel. One of Southampton’s key visitor attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chelmsford to Southampton
Showing times and prices for 29 Aug
Cheapest price
£40
Average price
£52
Fastest journey
2 h 32 m
Average duration
2 h 36 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
160 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chelmsford to Southampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chelmsford to Southampton will cost around £52 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £40.
Fast trains
To travel from Chelmsford to Southampton you need to make at least 2 changes.
P76944+
L80215+
Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo6:332h48Chelmsford station (CHM)9:21Southampton Central (SOU)£401One-way2 changes- P66503+
C38355+Tube from Tottenham Court Road (Elizabeth line) to London Waterloo+L803616:082h50Chelmsford station (CHM)8:58Southampton Central (SOU)£401One-way3 changes - P76036+L80361+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo5:413h17Chelmsford station (CHM)8:58Southampton Central (SOU)£401One-way2 changes
- P01077+L80085+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo7:112h38Chelmsford station (CHM)9:49Southampton Central (SOU)£401One-way2 changes
- C04019+L80093+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo8:112h39Chelmsford station (CHM)10:50Southampton Central (SOU)£431One-way2 changes
G01002+P01088+
W34875+C373859:112h32Chelmsford station (CHM)11:43Southampton Central (SOU)£751One-way3 changes- G00999+C04019+C37366+W348708:112h32Chelmsford station (CHM)10:43Southampton Central (SOU)£751One-way3 changes
- P01077+L80085+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo7:112h38Chelmsford station (CHM)9:49Southampton Central (SOU)£401One-way2 changes
- P01088+L80103+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo9:112h38Chelmsford station (CHM)11:49Southampton Central (SOU)£431One-way2 changes
- C04019+L80093+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo8:112h39Chelmsford station (CHM)10:50Southampton Central (SOU)£431One-way2 changes
Live departures
Chelmsford to Southampton train times
The table below shows live departures for Chelmsford to Southampton trains for tomorrow, Saturday 29 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L80361+P76036+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo | 5:41 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 3h17 | 8:58 Southampton Central (SOU) | 2 changes | |
| Tube from Tottenham Court Road (Elizabeth line) to London Waterloo+L80361+P66503+C38355 | 6:08 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h50 | 8:58 Southampton Central (SOU) | 3 changes | |
| L80215+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+P76944 | 6:33 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h48 | 9:21 Southampton Central (SOU) | 2 changes | |
| L79327+G00998+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+P66922 | 6:55 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h48 | 9:43 Southampton Central (SOU) | 3 changes | |
| L80085+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+P01077 | 7:11 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h38 | 9:49 Southampton Central (SOU) | 2 changes | |
| L80223+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+P67191 | 7:41 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h40 | 10:21 Southampton Central (SOU) | 2 changes | |
| L80093+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+C04019 | 8:11 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h39 | 10:50 Southampton Central (SOU) | 2 changes | |
| G00999+W34870+C37366+C04019 | 8:11 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h32 | 10:43 Southampton Central (SOU) | 3 changes | |
| L80235+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+P67195 | 8:41 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h40 | 11:21 Southampton Central (SOU) | 2 changes | |
| G01002+W34875+P01088+C37385 | 9:11 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h32 | 11:43 Southampton Central (SOU) | 3 changes | |
| L80103+P01088+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo | 9:11 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h38 | 11:49 Southampton Central (SOU) | 2 changes | |
| L80243+Tube from Stratford (London) to London Waterloo+P67246 | 9:41 Chelmsford station (CHM) | 2h40 | 12:21 Southampton Central (SOU) | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chelmsford to Southampton 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.
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Why should you book Chelmsford to Southampton trains with Omio?
South Western Railway as well as CrossCountry offer trains services from Chelmsford to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chelmsford 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 CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Chelmsford to Southampton.
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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 Chelmsford to Southampton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chelmsford to Southampton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chelmsford to Southampton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £30 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:49, the last at 23:23. The fastest train covers the 160 km distance in 2h 32m.
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 160 km |
Average train duration 2h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price £30 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 32m |
First train 4:49 |
Last train 23:23 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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: South Western Railway, CrossCountry from Chelmsford to Southampton trainsSouth Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Chelmsford and Southampton from £30. 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
2h 42m
Cheapest Price
£30
South Western Railway frequency
6 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 Duration
2h 32m
Cheapest Price
£34
CrossCountry frequency
2 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 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.
- 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.
- Must visit
Old Town
Historic quarter of lanes, walls and vaults near the waterfront. Best for wandering between medieval sites, museums and old pubs.
- Recommended
Southampton Common
Large central park popular for walks, events and green space between the civic buildings. A practical and pleasant break from shopping streets.
- Recommended
Ocean Village
Waterside promenade with marina views, cafés nearby and links to old town walks. Visit for harbour scenery and a relaxed atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Hampshire Hoggers
A hearty Hampshire stew of beef, onions and root vegetables, slowly cooked. It is a traditional county comfort dish linked to local farmhouse cooking.
- Gluten-free
South Coast Crab
Fresh crab from the nearby Solent and south coast, often served simply dressed. It is prized locally for sweet flavour and strong coastal identity.
Plaice
A classic south coast catch, grilled or fried and served in local pubs and seafood spots. It reflects Southampton’s long maritime food culture.
The Oxford Brasserie
Lively Oxford Street seafood restaurant serving fish, shellfish and British classics in an established, bustling setting.
Bacaro
Well-known Italian restaurant in Ocean Village with pizzas, pasta and marina views in a relaxed modern setting.
The Jetty
Contemporary fine dining in a polished setting, known for seasonal British tasting menus and carefully presented plates.
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.
Bluestar
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.60
- Day pass
- £4.30
To the city centre
Southampton Central -> Westquay, Southampton
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Adult singles in the Southampton zone are £2.60, and contactless tap on or tap off is accepted on Bluestar and Unilink buses.
- A Southampton Zone Dayrider is £4.30 in the app or via tap on tap off, or £4.50 as a paper ticket from the driver.
FAQs: Chelmsford to Southampton train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chelmsford 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Chelmsford to Southampton can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £30, while the average price tends to be around £33.
The train journey from Chelmsford to Southampton covers a distance of 160 km and takes approximately 2h 32m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Chelmsford to Southampton is 160 km.
The first train from Chelmsford to Southampton leaves at 4:49.
The last train from Chelmsford to Southampton departs at 23:23.
Trains from Chelmsford to Southampton run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chelmsford to Southampton.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Chelmsford to Southampton.
To travel from Chelmsford to Southampton, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Chelmsford to Southampton.
The train station in Chelmsford that goes to Southampton is Chelmsford station (CHM), and it arrives at Southampton Central (SOU).
The cheapest way to get from Chelmsford to Southampton is by train, costing approximately £30.
Booking trains from Chelmsford 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 Chelmsford to Southampton offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including glimpses of the picturesque Essex countryside and parts of the South Downs National Park, providing a moderately scenic experience.
A day trip from Chelmsford to Southampton isn't feasible as the journey takes 2h 32m. Trains run 6 times per day over a distance of 160 km.
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 Chelmsford to Southampton.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chelmsford and Southampton
Most Chelmsford to Southampton trains use the Chelmsford to Southampton Central station pair, with some services arriving at Southampton Airport Parkway. Use this guide to compare Chelmsford and Southampton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chelmsford
Arrival train stations in Southampton
Which Chelmsford station do trains to Southampton leave from?
Trains from Chelmsford to Southampton leave from Chelmsford. The station is from Chelmsford city centre at Chelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT.
ChelmsfordChelmsford station, Duke Street, Chelmsford, Essex, CM1 1HT+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chelmsford from Chelmsford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement transport stop at the bus stop on Victoria Road by station entrance
Chelmsford train station facilities and services
Chelmsford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chelmsford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chelmsford. ATMs are available at Chelmsford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chelmsford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chelmsford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chelmsford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chelmsford: 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.
Which Southampton station do trains from Chelmsford arrive at?
Trains from Chelmsford to Southampton most often arrive at Southampton Central. Some services arrive at Southampton Airport Parkway, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Southampton arrival station.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · £2 · every ~20 min
Southampton Central train station facilities and services
Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that this station has no 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: Yes.
Southampton Airport ParkwaySouthampton Airport Parkway station, Wide Lane, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2HW+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Airport Parkway from Southampton city centre
Southampton Airport Parkway is 5 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSalisbury - Romsey, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - Winchester, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Woking, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Poole - Winchester, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Romsey - Romsey, Southampton Central - Woking, Salisbury - Salisbury, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 10m · £3 · every ~8 min
BusU1a, U1e · 34m · £2 · every ~21 min
U1a, U1e · 40m · £2 · every ~37 min
Southampton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services
Southampton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. 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.
RedbridgeRedbridge station, Station Road, Redbridge, Hampshire, SO15 0NB
City-centre transport
Getting to Redbridge from Southampton city centre
Redbridge is 4 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainWeymouth - London Waterloo, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - London Waterloo · 1h 53m · £55 · every ~4 min
Bus032 · 4h 40m · £20 · every ~3 min
SubwayCentral · 2h 52m · £78 · every ~30 min
Redbridge train station facilities and services
Redbridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Lost and Found Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Redbridge.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Redbridge.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Redbridge: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Redbridge: Bike Parking.
More options for your journey from Chelmsford to Southampton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Southampton and Chelmsford
Most popular train connections to Southampton
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