- 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 Folkestone to Southampton
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 52 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
4 h 52 m
Trains on 18 Sept
1
Distance
182 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Folkestone to Southampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Folkestone 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
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 1 trains from Folkestone to Southampton, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 182 km distance in an average of 4 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 52 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 52 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.
6:394h52Folkestone11:31Southampton£321One-way0 changes
- 6:394h52Folkestone11:31Southampton£321One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Folkestone to Southampton
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Folkestone to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £24 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 46m. 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 £24, while a train costs an average of £27.
Distance: 182 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£27 Average Price | £24 Average Price Cheapest | £37 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 46m Average total duration Fastest 3h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 22m Average total duration 5h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 37m 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 Folkestone to Southampton is a coach with an average price of £24.
This is compared to other travel options from Folkestone to Southampton:
A coach is £3 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Folkestone to Southampton costing on average £27.
The fastest way to travel from Folkestone to Southampton is by train with an average journey time of 3h 16m.
Other travel options to Southampton take longer:
Coach takes on average 5h 52m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Folkestone and Southampton including taking a train and coach.
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 £27 compared to roughly £37 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £10. The journey takes 3h 16m versus 2h 37m 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.
Live departures
Folkestone to Southampton train times
The table below shows live departures for Folkestone to Southampton trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:35 Folkestone | 4h56 | 13:31 Southampton | 0 changesdirect | |
| Friday 18 September | |||||
| 6:39 Folkestone | 4h52 | 11:31 Southampton | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Folkestone to Southampton by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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
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19 Sept
19 Sept
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20 Sept
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21 Sept
21 Sept
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24 Sept
24 Sept
Why should you book Folkestone to Southampton trains with Omio?
Southern as well as Southeastern offer trains services from Folkestone to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Folkestone to Southampton.
Why book with Omio vs Southern?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Southern, but also compare tickets for the likes of Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Folkestone 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 Southern with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Folkestone to Southampton.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- 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 Folkestone to Southampton.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Folkestone to Southampton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Folkestone to Southampton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Folkestone to Southampton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £15 but you can travel from only £15 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:40, the last at 21:38. The fastest train covers the 182 km distance in 4h 49m.
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 £15
Distance 182 km |
Average train duration 3h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price £15 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 49m |
First train 4:40 |
Last train 21:38 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 3 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 £15
Train companies: Southern, Southeastern from Folkestone to Southampton trainsSouthern, Southeastern trains will get you between Folkestone and Southampton from £15. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Southern
About
Southern Rail is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local commuter services. Its trains include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, and Class 444 and 450. It also offers a variety of ticket types, such as Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southern Rail are London to Brighton, London to Southampton, and London to Portsmouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Southern Duration
4h 49m
Cheapest Southern Price
£15
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund provided
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with snacks and drinks
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require a ticket
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 Southeastern Duration
4h 4m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
£94
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.
- 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: Folkestone to Southampton train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Folkestone 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 Folkestone to Southampton can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £15, while the average price tends to be around £27.
The train journey from Folkestone to Southampton covers a distance of 182 km and takes approximately 4h 49m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Folkestone to Southampton is 182 km.
The first train from Folkestone to Southampton leaves at 4:40.
The last train from Folkestone to Southampton departs at 21:38.
Trains from Folkestone to Southampton run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Folkestone to Southampton.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Folkestone to Southampton.
To get from Folkestone to Southampton, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Folkestone to Southampton.
The train station in Folkestone that goes to Southampton is Folkestone West (FKW), and it arrives at Southampton Central (SOU).
The cheapest way to get from Folkestone to Southampton is by coach, costing approximately £15.
Booking trains from Folkestone 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 Folkestone to Southampton offers a scenic experience with views of the Kent countryside, the historic cathedral city of Canterbury, and glimpses of the beautiful South Downs National Park as you approach Southampton.
A day trip from Folkestone to Southampton is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 49m. Trains run 5 times per day, covering a distance of 182 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 Folkestone to Southampton.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Folkestone and Southampton
Most Folkestone to Southampton trains use the Folkestone West to Southampton Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Folkestone and Southampton 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 Southampton
Which Folkestone station do trains to Southampton leave from?
Trains from Folkestone to Southampton 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 Southampton station do trains from Folkestone arrive at?
Trains from Folkestone 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 Folkestone
More options for your journey from Folkestone to Southampton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Southampton and Folkestone
Most popular train connections to Southampton
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