- Recommended
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
Engaging Roman museum built around the remains of a town house. See mosaics, artefacts and displays that bring Roman Canterbury to life.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Guildford to Canterbury
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Sept
Cheapest price on 20 Sept
£54
Average ticket price on 20 Sept
£54
Fastest journey on 20 Sept
2 h 44 m
Average journey duration on 20 Sept
2 h 44 m
Trains on 20 Sept
6
Distance
115 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Guildford to Canterbury is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Guildford to Canterbury will cost around £54 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £54.
Fast trains
To travel from Guildford to Canterbury you need to make at least 2 changes.
P89026+
C33121+
G7741810:352h44Guildford station (GLD)13:19Canterbury West (CBW)£541One-way2 changes- P89044+C33127+G7743613:352h44Guildford station (GLD)16:19Canterbury West (CBW)£541One-way2 changes
- P89020+C33119+G774129:352h44Guildford station (GLD)12:19Canterbury West (CBW)£541One-way2 changes
- P89014+C33117+G774058:352h44Guildford station (GLD)11:19Canterbury West (CBW)£541One-way2 changes
- P89038+C33125+G7743012:352h44Guildford station (GLD)15:19Canterbury West (CBW)£541One-way2 changes
- P89026+C33121+G7741810:352h44Guildford station (GLD)13:19Canterbury West (CBW)£541One-way2 changes
- P89044+C33127+G7743613:352h44Guildford station (GLD)16:19Canterbury West (CBW)£541One-way2 changes
- P89020+C33119+G774129:352h44Guildford station (GLD)12:19Canterbury West (CBW)£541One-way2 changes
- P89014+C33117+G774058:352h44Guildford station (GLD)11:19Canterbury West (CBW)£541One-way2 changes
- P89038+C33125+G7743012:352h44Guildford station (GLD)15:19Canterbury West (CBW)£541One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Guildford to Canterbury
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Guildford to Canterbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £28 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 36m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £28, while a train costs an average of £52.
Distance: 115 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£52 Average Price | £28 Average Price Cheapest | £23 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 36m Average total duration Fastest 2h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 27m Average total duration 3h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 30m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Guildford to Canterbury is a coach with an average price of £28.
This is compared to other travel options from Guildford to Canterbury:
A coach is £23 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Guildford to Canterbury costing on average £52.
The fastest way to travel from Guildford to Canterbury is by train with an average journey time of 2h 6m.
Other travel options to Canterbury take longer:
Coach takes on average 3h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Guildford and Canterbury 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 £52 compared to roughly £23 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-28.43. The journey takes 2h 6m versus 1h 30m 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 Guildford to Canterbury 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.
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Why should you book Guildford to Canterbury trains with Omio?
South Western Railway as well as Southeastern offer trains services from Guildford to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Guildford to Canterbury.
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 Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Guildford to Canterbury.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Guildford to Canterbury.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- 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 Guildford to Canterbury.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Guildford to Canterbury.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Guildford to Canterbury
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Guildford to Canterbury run on average 5 times per day, taking around 2h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £43 but you can travel from only £16 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:19, the last at 22:23. The fastest train covers the 115 km distance in 1h 52m.
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 £16
Distance 115 km |
Average train duration 2h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price £43 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 1h 52m |
First train 5:19 |
Last train 22:23 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 35 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 £16
Train companies: Southeastern, South Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Guildford to Canterbury trainsSoutheastern, South Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Guildford and Canterbury from £16. 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 0m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£43
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
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
3h 19m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
£36
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
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway (GWR) Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Great Western Railway (GWR) Price
£61
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
4 a day
Complete guide to Canterbury
Things to do in Canterbury
Discover the best of Canterbury — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Canterbury trip today.
- Recommended
Canterbury Roman Museum
Interactive museum on the site of Roman Canterbury, with preserved pavement mosaics, finds and family-friendly interpretation underground.
- Recommended
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
Local museum and gallery with art, ceramics, natural history and changing displays. Good for a broad introduction to the city and region.
- Recommended
The King's Mile
Historic pedestrian street lined with timber-framed buildings, shops and cafés. A classic place to experience Canterbury’s medieval townscape.
- Recommended
Westgate Gardens
A landscaped public garden beside the old city walls. Popular for riverside walks, flower displays and a relaxing break near the centre.
Dane John Gardens
A peaceful green beside the River Stour and cathedral precinct. Ideal for a short scenic walk, picnic or photographs of the city’s historic core.
- Vegetarian
Kentish Huffkin
Kentish Huffkin is a traditional Kent bread roll, often served filled with ham, cheese or fruit. It is a long-standing local bakery staple across East Kent.
- Vegetarian
Canterbury Tart
Canterbury Tart is a local jam tart linked with the city, typically made with shortcrust pastry and apple or berry jam. It is a classic Kent teatime bake.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Kentish Cobnuts
Kentish Cobnuts are cultivated hazelnuts from Kent, prized for their sweet flavour and strong county identity. They are eaten fresh, roasted or in desserts.
The Corner House
Popular city-centre bistro serving modern British dishes in a relaxed, stylish setting. Well regarded for brunch, lunch and seasonal dinners.
Chapman's Seafood Bar & Brasserie
Elegant restaurant focused on seafood and modern British cooking. A refined but welcoming choice for a special meal near the city centre.
The Parrot
Historic pub with traditional interiors, local ales and hearty British food. A good place to try Kentish beer in a characterful setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England: hotels and dining are pricier than smaller UK towns, but local buses and casual meals stay manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafes: rounding up is enough. Taxis: round up or add about 10% for good service.
Stagecoach Bus App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3
- Day pass
- £4.90
To the city centre
Canterbury West -> Canterbury Bus Station, Canterbury
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Stagecoach says Canterbury single bus fares are capped at £3, and DayRider tickets are sold in the Stagecoach Bus App.
- Canterbury City Council says Park and Ride tickets can be bought on board. Contactless card payment is commonly available on Stagecoach buses, but check when boarding.
FAQs: Guildford to Canterbury train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Guildford to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Guildford to Canterbury can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £43, while the average price tends to be around £52.
The train journey from Guildford to Canterbury covers a distance of 115 km and takes approximately 1h 52m. Trains run 5 per day.
The train distance from Guildford to Canterbury is 115 km.
The first train from Guildford to Canterbury leaves at 5:19.
The last train from Guildford to Canterbury departs at 22:23.
Trains from Guildford to Canterbury run approximately 5 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Guildford to Canterbury.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Guildford to Canterbury.
To get from Guildford to Canterbury, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Guildford to Canterbury.
The train station in Guildford that goes to Canterbury is Guildford station (GLD), and it arrives at Canterbury West (CBW).
The cheapest way to get from Guildford to Canterbury is by coach, costing approximately £16.
Booking trains from Guildford to Canterbury in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Guildford to Canterbury offers a pleasant experience with views of the English countryside, passing through charming towns and scenic landscapes. While it may not be the most renowned for its scenery, passengers can enjoy glimpses of fields, woodlands, and historic architecture throughout the route.
A day trip from Guildford to Canterbury is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 52m and the distance is 115 km. However, there are 5 trains per day.
In Canterbury, you can explore the historic streets on a guided walking tour, enjoy a punting tour on the River Stour, and visit the Canterbury Tales attraction. Attend a performance at The Marlowe Theatre or discover the local food scene on a culinary tour. Key sights include the Canterbury Cathedral, St. Augustine's Abbey, the Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint, the Canterbury Roman Museum, and Westgate Gardens.
To fully explore Canterbury's historic sites, such as Canterbury Cathedral, St. Augustine's Abbey, and the Canterbury Roman Museum, a visit of two to three days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Guildford to Canterbury.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Guildford and Canterbury
Most Guildford to Canterbury trains use the Guildford to Canterbury West station pair. Use this guide to compare Guildford and Canterbury train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Guildford
Arrival train stations in Canterbury
Which Guildford station do trains to Canterbury leave from?
Trains from Guildford to Canterbury leave from Guildford. The station is 1 km from Guildford city centre at Guildford station, Station Approach, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4UT.
GuildfordGuildford station, Station Approach, Guildford, Surrey, GU1 4UT
City-centre transport
Getting to Guildford from Guildford city centre
Bus53 · 2m · £2
18 · 16m · £2 · every ~2 min
Guildford train station facilities and services
Guildford has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Guildford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Guildford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Guildford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Guildford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Guildford: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Guildford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: There is level access to the booking hall and all platforms from the main entrance in Walnut Tree Close. There is no step free access from the Guildford Park Road entrance. There is step free access to and interchange between all platforms via steep ramps. A staff operated powered wheelchair is available for customers. Please speak to a member of staff or our Assisted Travel team, Accessible taxis: The taxi rank is located outside the main station entrance (platform 2), 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.
Which Canterbury station do trains from Guildford arrive at?
Trains from Guildford to Canterbury arrive at Canterbury West. Canterbury West is 1 km from Canterbury city centre.
Canterbury WestCanterbury West station, Station Road West, Canterbury, Kent, CT2 8AN+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury West from Canterbury city centre
Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · £3 · every ~22 min
Canterbury West train station facilities and services
Canterbury West 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 Canterbury West.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury 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 Canterbury West: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury West: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury West: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs, 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: two within concourse, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from Guildford to Canterbury
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Canterbury and Guildford
Most popular train connections to Canterbury
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