- Must visit
HMS Victory
A major naval museum where visitors can board Nelson’s flagship and explore life at sea through preserved decks and displays.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Folkestone to Portsmouth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£32
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£32
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
4 h 2 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
4 h 2 m
Trains on 18 Sept
1
Distance
162 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Folkestone to Portsmouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Folkestone to Portsmouth will cost around £32 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £32.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 1 trains from Folkestone to Portsmouth, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 162 km distance in an average of 4 h 2 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 2 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 2 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.
8:354h02Folkestone12:37Portsmouth£321One-way0 changes
- 8:354h02Folkestone12:37Portsmouth£321One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Folkestone to Portsmouth
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Folkestone to Portsmouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £30 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 £30, while a train costs an average of £33.
Distance: 162 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£33 Average Price | £30 Average Price Cheapest | £32 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 11m Average total duration Fastest 3h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 55m Average total duration 5h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 18m 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 Folkestone to Portsmouth is a coach with an average price of £30.
This is compared to other travel options from Folkestone to Portsmouth:
A coach is £2 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Folkestone to Portsmouth costing on average £33.
The fastest way to travel from Folkestone to Portsmouth is by train with an average journey time of 3h 41m.
Other travel options to Portsmouth take longer:
Coach takes on average 5h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Folkestone and Portsmouth 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 £33 compared to roughly £32 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-0.65. The journey takes 3h 41m versus 2h 18m 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 Folkestone to Portsmouth 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.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept
24 Sept
Why should you book Folkestone to Portsmouth trains with Omio?
South Western Railway operates all trains services from Folkestone to Portsmouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Folkestone to Portsmouth.
Why book with Omio vs South Western Railway?
- 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 Folkestone to Portsmouth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Folkestone to Portsmouth.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Folkestone to Portsmouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Folkestone to Portsmouth run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £33 but you can travel from only £28 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:03, the last at 21:08. The fastest train covers the 162 km distance in 4h 2m.
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 £28
Distance 162 km |
Average train duration 3h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price £33 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 2m |
First train 4:03 |
Last train 21:08 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 7 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £28
Train companies: South Western Railway from Folkestone to Portsmouth trainsSouth Western Railway trains will get you between Folkestone and Portsmouth from £28. 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
4h 8m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£85
South Western Railway frequency
3 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 Portsmouth
Things to do in Portsmouth
Discover the best of Portsmouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Portsmouth trip today.
- Recommended
HMS Alliance
This working museum ship reveals cramped Victorian submarine life and the engineering behind one of Britain’s earliest submarines.
- Recommended
Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery
Portsmouth’s city museum covers local history, football heritage and art, with exhibits spanning the city’s people and places.
- Must visit
Old Portsmouth
A historic waterfront district with cobbled lanes, pubs, sea walls and several key heritage sites within easy walking distance.
- Must visit
Southsea Seafront
A long pebble beach promenade with piers, gardens and open sea views, well suited to relaxed walks along the Southsea seafront.
- Recommended
Southsea Common
A broad common by the Solent, popular for walks, picnics and views of passing ships, the Isle of Wight and seafront landmarks.
- Vegetarian
Hampshire hog cake
A rich fruit cake packed with dried fruit, spice and treacle, long associated with Hampshire baking and often enjoyed at Christmas and local celebrations.
- Gluten-free
South Coast crab
Fresh crab landed on the South Coast, usually served simply in sandwiches, salads or dressed shells, prized for sweet meat and Portsmouth’s seaside setting.
- Gluten-free
Fisherman’s pie
A classic Portsmouth and Hampshire pub dish of smoked haddock, potato and onion in a creamy sauce, baked until golden and comforting in coastal weather.
The Fisherman's Kitchen
Popular Southsea spot for classic fish and chips and fresh seafood, with a casual atmosphere close to the seafront.
The Briny
Smart waterfront restaurant in Old Portsmouth serving modern British dishes with strong seafood options in an elegant, relaxed setting.
Still and West
Historic pub in Old Portsmouth known for traditional British cooking, cask ales and harbour views in a characterful setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels can be pricey in summer, but dining and local buses remain manageable for most city-break budgets.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if not already added. Taxis: round up or 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated for table service.
Book a Journey
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city centre
Portsmouth Harbour -> Guildhall Square, Portsmouth
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless payment is available on Stagecoach buses in Portsmouth. Buy before boarding only if your chosen operator or ticket type requires it.
- Guildhall Square and the Commercial Road bus hub are central for onward travel. Portsmouth Harbour is about 1 mile from the city centre, so walking is practical in good weather.
FAQs: Folkestone to Portsmouth train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Folkestone to Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Folkestone to Portsmouth can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £33, while the average price tends to be around £33.
The train journey from Folkestone to Portsmouth covers a distance of 162 km and takes approximately 4h 2m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Folkestone to Portsmouth is 162 km.
The first train from Folkestone to Portsmouth leaves at 4:03.
The last train from Folkestone to Portsmouth departs at 21:08.
Trains from Folkestone to Portsmouth run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Folkestone to Portsmouth.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Folkestone to Portsmouth.
To get from Folkestone to Portsmouth, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Folkestone to Portsmouth.
The train station in Folkestone that goes to Portsmouth is Folkestone West (FKW), and it arrives at Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS).
The cheapest way to get from Folkestone to Portsmouth is by coach, costing approximately £28.
Booking trains from Folkestone to Portsmouth in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The Folkestone to Portsmouth train journey offers diverse scenery, including the picturesque Kent Downs, charming countryside views, and glimpses of the South Downs, providing a pleasant visual experience along the route.
A day trip from Folkestone to Portsmouth is not feasible as the travel duration is 4h 2m. However, there are 5 trains available per day for this journey.
A visit to Portsmouth typically requires 2 to 3 days to explore its main attractions, such as the Historic Dockyard, Spinnaker Tower, and Southsea Beach.
Yes, you can take the train from Folkestone to Portsmouth.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Folkestone and Portsmouth
Most Folkestone to Portsmouth trains use the Folkestone West to Portsmouth & Southsea station pair, with some services arriving at Portsmouth Harbour. Use this guide to compare Folkestone and Portsmouth train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Folkestone
Arrival train stations in Portsmouth
Which Folkestone station do trains to Portsmouth leave from?
Trains from Folkestone to Portsmouth leave from Folkestone West. The station is 2 km from Folkestone city centre at Folkestone West station, Station Approach, off Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3PA.
Folkestone WestFolkestone West station, Station Approach, off Shorncliffe Road, Folkestone, Kent, CT20 3PA+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone West from Folkestone city centre
Folkestone West is 2 km from Folkestone city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRamsgate - St Pancras International, Faversham - St Pancras International, Margate - Ashford International, Ramsgate - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - London Charing Cross, Ramsgate - Ashford International, Dover Priory - Ashford International, Folkestone Central - London Victoria, Dover Priory - London Cannon Street, Faversham - London Charing Cross, Dover Priory - St Pancras International, Sandwich - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - St Pancras International, Folkestone Central - London Charing Cross, Folkestone Central - Ashford International, Dover Priory - London Bridge, Ramsgate - London Bridge, Faversham - London Bridge, Dover Priory - Tonbridge, Deal - St Pancras International, Deal - Ashford International · 2m · £0.90 · every ~5 min
Bus10, 17, 71, 71A · 4m · £3 · every ~21 min
Folkestone West train station facilities and services
Folkestone West has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Folkestone West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone 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 Folkestone West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone West: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone West: 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 via main entrance off Shorncliffe Road. Step free access to platform 2 via side entrance off Station Road. Step access between platforms via station subway. Step free Interchange between platforms via steep roads is in excess of 500 metres, 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: by entrance to platform 1, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Folkestone CentralFolkestone Central station, Station Approach, Folkestone, Kent, CT19 5HB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Folkestone Central from Folkestone city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stop outside of the station (exit station, walk down the slope and turn right. Bus stop is just beyond the bridge)
Folkestone Central train station facilities and services
Folkestone Central 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 Folkestone Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Folkestone Central. 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 Folkestone Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Folkestone Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Folkestone Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Step free access via lift or steep ramps from main entrance, 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: In the booking hall, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 24 Hours a Day Saturday 24 Hours a Day Sunday 24 Hours a Day, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Portsmouth station do trains from Folkestone arrive at?
Trains from Folkestone to Portsmouth most often arrive at Portsmouth & Southsea. Some services arrive at Portsmouth Harbour, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Portsmouth arrival station.
Portsmouth & SouthseaPortsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth & Southsea from Portsmouth city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation Street bus stop at side of Railway Station near Matalan car park.
Portsmouth & Southsea train station facilities and services
Portsmouth & Southsea has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth & Southsea. ATMs are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth & Southsea: 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.
Portsmouth HarbourPortsmouth Harbour station, The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3PA
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth Harbour from Portsmouth city centre
Portsmouth Harbour is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Littlehampton - Portsmouth Harbour, Three Bridges - Portsmouth Harbour, Barnham - Portsmouth Harbour, Gatwick Airport - Portsmouth Harbour, Havant - Portsmouth Harbour, Bognor Regis - Portsmouth Harbour · 3m · £0.90 · every ~4 min
Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · £2 · every ~214 min
Portsmouth Harbour train station facilities and services
Portsmouth Harbour has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth Harbour. ATMs are available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth Harbour: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - Steps or 20m ramp (approx. 1:11 gradient) to main entrance, or steps to side entrance. 32m ramp (gradient up to 1:8) from Wightlink IoW ferry terminal. Level access to all platforms. Stepped footbridge between platforms is also available. 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: No.
Most popular train connections from Folkestone
More options for your journey from Folkestone to Portsmouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Portsmouth and Folkestone
Most popular train connections to Portsmouth
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
