- 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 Colchester to Southampton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Sept
Cheapest price on 20 Sept
£92
Average ticket price on 20 Sept
£92
Fastest journey on 20 Sept
3 h 34 m
Average journey duration on 20 Sept
3 h 38 m
Trains on 20 Sept
6
Distance
194 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Colchester to Southampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Colchester to Southampton will cost around £92 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £92.
Fast trains
To travel from Colchester to Southampton you need to make at least 2 changes.
P67068+
C37259+
G0101110:003h42Colchester station (COL)13:42Southampton Central (SOU)£921One-way2 changes- P67068+C37371+
W34690+
L7936810:003h34Colchester station (COL)13:34Southampton Central (SOU)£921One-way4 changes - P66915+C00804+G01007+C370239:063h38Colchester station (COL)12:44Southampton Central (SOU)£921One-way3 changes
- P67057+C33026+L79357 · L787699:003h34Colchester station (COL)12:34Southampton Central (SOU)£921One-way4 changes
- P01197+G01004+C372288:023h40Colchester station (COL)11:42Southampton Central (SOU)£921One-way2 changes
- P67068+C37371+W34690+L7936810:003h34Colchester station (COL)13:34Southampton Central (SOU)£921One-way4 changes
- P67057+C33026+L79357 · L787699:003h34Colchester station (COL)12:34Southampton Central (SOU)£921One-way4 changes
- P66915+C00804+G01007+C370239:063h38Colchester station (COL)12:44Southampton Central (SOU)£921One-way3 changes
- P01197+G01004+C372288:023h40Colchester station (COL)11:42Southampton Central (SOU)£921One-way2 changes
- P67068+C37259+G0101110:003h42Colchester station (COL)13:42Southampton Central (SOU)£921One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Colchester to Southampton
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £76 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 35m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £76, while a train costs an average of £93.
Distance: 194 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£93 Average Price | £76 Average Price Cheapest | £41 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 35m Average total duration Fastest 3h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 50m Average total duration 5h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Colchester to Southampton is a coach with an average price of £53.
This is compared to other travel options from Colchester to Southampton:
A coach is £11 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Colchester to Southampton costing on average £64.
The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Southampton is by train with an average journey time of 2h 21m.
Other travel options to Southampton take longer:
Coach takes on average 5h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Southampton including taking a coach and train.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 32m sooner (2h 21m by train vs 2h 53m by car). Tickets start at around £64 compared to roughly £41 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Colchester to Southampton train times
The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Southampton trains for today, Saturday 19 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:00 Colchester | 2h43 | 10:43 Southampton | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:00 Colchester | 2h43 | 11:43 Southampton | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Colchester 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.
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
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22 Sept
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Wed
23 Sept
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26 Sept
26 Sept
Why should you book Colchester to Southampton trains with Omio?
South Western Railway as well as CrossCountry offer trains services from Colchester to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester 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 Colchester 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 Colchester to Southampton.
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 Colchester to Southampton.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Colchester to Southampton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Colchester to Southampton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Colchester to Southampton run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £93 but you can travel from only £59 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:52, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 194 km distance in 2h 57m.
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 £59
Distance 194 km |
Average train duration 3h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price £93 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 57m |
First train 4:52 |
Last train 22:00 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
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 £59
Train companies: South Western Railway, CrossCountry from Colchester to Southampton trainsSouth Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Colchester and Southampton from £59. 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
3h 9m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£37
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 48m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£92
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: Colchester to Southampton train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester 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 Colchester to Southampton can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £93, while the average price tends to be around £93.
The train journey from Colchester to Southampton covers a distance of 194 km and takes approximately 2h 57m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Colchester to Southampton is 194 km.
The first train from Colchester to Southampton leaves at 4:52.
The last train from Colchester to Southampton departs at 22:00.
Trains from Colchester to Southampton run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Colchester to Southampton.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Colchester to Southampton.
To get from Colchester to Southampton, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Colchester to Southampton.
The train station in Colchester that goes to Southampton is Colchester station (COL), and it arrives at Southampton Central (SOU).
The cheapest way to get from Colchester to Southampton is by train, costing approximately £37.
Booking trains from Colchester 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 Colchester to Southampton offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of the Essex countryside, parts of the Chiltern Hills, and glimpses of the South Downs, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Colchester to Southampton is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 57m. However, there are 5 train options available 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 Colchester to Southampton.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Colchester and Southampton
Most Colchester to Southampton trains use the Colchester to Southampton Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Colchester and Southampton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Colchester
Arrival train stations in Southampton
Which Colchester station do trains to Southampton leave from?
Trains from Colchester to Southampton leave from Colchester. The station is 2 km from Colchester city centre at Colchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD.
ColchesterColchester [North] station, Station Approach Road, Colchester, Essex, CO1 1XD+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester from Colchester city centre
Colchester is 1 km from Colchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainClacton-on-Sea - London Liverpool Street, Clacton-on-Sea - Colchester, Colchester Town - London Liverpool Street, Colchester Town - Colchester, Walton-on-the-Naze - Colchester · 8m · £0.90 · every ~5 min
Bus2A, 68, 87, 53, 53A, 52, 51, X20 · 6m · £2 · every ~31 min
Colchester train station facilities and services
Colchester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Colchester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Colchester. ATMs are available at Colchester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester. 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 Colchester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Colchester: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester: 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 Colchester arrive at?
Trains from Colchester to Southampton arrive at Southampton Central. Southampton Central is 1 km from Southampton city centre.
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.
Most popular train connections from Colchester
More options for your journey from Colchester to Southampton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Southampton and Colchester
Most popular train connections to Southampton
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