London to Dorchester train with South Western Railway

Tue 20 Oct
+ Add return
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
South Western Railway
Great Western Railway
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from London to Dorchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 20 Oct

Cheapest price on 20 Oct

£19

Average ticket price on 20 Oct

£60

Fastest journey on 20 Oct

2 h 31 m

Average journey duration on 20 Oct

2 h 40 m

Trains on 20 Oct

11

Distance

184 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London to Dorchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from London to Dorchester will cost around £60 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £19.

Fast trains

On Tue 20 Oct, we found 11 trains from London to Dorchester, including 7 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 184 km distance in an average of 2 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 31 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 45 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.

  • South Western RailwayL80261
    13:052h46
    London Waterloo (WAT)
    15:51Dorchester South (DCH)
    £191One-way
    0 changes
  • South Western RailwayL80119
    12:352h35
    London Waterloo (WAT)
    15:10Dorchester South (DCH)
    £191One-way
    0 changes
  • South Western RailwayL80253
    12:052h46
    London Waterloo (WAT)
    14:51Dorchester South (DCH)
    £191One-way
    0 changes
  • South Western RailwayL80127
    13:352h31
    London Waterloo (WAT)
    16:06Dorchester South (DCH)
    £191One-way
    0 changes
  • South Western RailwayL80221
    9:052h45
    London Waterloo (WAT)
    11:50Dorchester South (DCH)
    £331One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from London to Dorchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from London to Dorchester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £9 if you book in advance.

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:53. The fastest train covers the 184 km distance in 2h 3m.

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
184 km
Average train duration
2h 46m
Cheapest ticket price
£9
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
4
Fastest train
2h 3m
First train
0:12
Last train
23:53
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
14 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

Live departures

London to Dorchester train times

The table below shows live departures for London to Dorchester trains for today, Monday 19 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
South Western RailwayL80335
Delayed
21:35 London Waterloo (WAT)
2h36
23:12 23:12Dorchester South (DCH)
0 changesdirect
Tuesday 20 October
South Western RailwayL802138:05 London Waterloo (WAT)
2h45
10:50 Dorchester South (DCH)0 changesdirect
South Western RailwayL800838:35 London Waterloo (WAT)
2h45
11:20 Dorchester South (DCH)0 changesdirect
South Western RailwayL802219:05 London Waterloo (WAT)
2h45
11:50 Dorchester South (DCH)0 changesdirect
Great Western RailwayW35106 · W34788 · C481319:06 London Paddington (PAD)
3h02
12:08 Dorchester West (DCW)2 changes
Great Western RailwayW35106+South Western RailwayL80091+CrossCountryG010009:06 London Paddington (PAD)
3h16
12:22 Dorchester South (DCH)2 changes
South Western RailwayL79342 · L80091+CrossCountryG01000+SouthernG278339:07 London Victoria (VIC)
3h15
12:22 Dorchester South (DCH)3 changes
South Western RailwayL8025312:05 London Waterloo (WAT)
2h46
14:51 Dorchester South (DCH)0 changesdirect
South Western RailwayL8011912:35 London Waterloo (WAT)
2h35
15:10 Dorchester South (DCH)0 changesdirect
South Western RailwayL8026113:05 London Waterloo (WAT)
2h46
15:51 Dorchester South (DCH)0 changesdirect
South Western RailwayL8012713:35 London Waterloo (WAT)
2h31
16:06 Dorchester South (DCH)0 changesdirect
South Western RailwayL80273+SouthernG2786813:36 London Victoria (VIC)
3h15
16:51 Dorchester South (DCH)1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book London to Dorchester trains with Omio?

South Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway or CrossCountry offer trains services from London to Dorchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London to Dorchester.

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 Great Western Railway or CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from London to Dorchester.
  • 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from London to Dorchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway or CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from London to Dorchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from London to Dorchester.

Train companies: South Western Railway, Great Western Railway, CrossCountry from London to Dorchester trainsSouth Western Railway, Great Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between London and Dorchester from £9. 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
2h 27m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£9
South Western Railway frequency
7 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

Great Western Railway

About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
2h 3m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£29
Great Western Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
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 35m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£52
CrossCountry frequency
1 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 Dorchester

Things to do in Dorchester

Discover the best of Dorchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dorchester trip today.

  • Must visit

Dorset Museum & Art Gallery

Dorchester’s major museum explores Dorset history through archaeology, Roman finds and local stories in a modern setting.

  • Recommended

Thomas Hardy's Birthplace

Former home of novelist Thomas Hardy, preserved with period rooms and displays that illuminate his life and writing.

  • Recommended

Max Gate

Atmospheric Victorian townhouse where Hardy lived later in life, with original rooms, garden and literary interpretation.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for England: lodging and dining are mid-priced, while local buses and cafés are fairly reasonable for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-12 for fast food or a basic lunch.
Mid-range
£18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£45+ per person for fine dining.
Coffee
£3-4 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated.

Best day trips from Dorchester by train

The most popular day trips by train from Dorchester are Weymouth, Bournemouth, Poole, Southampton and Winchester. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Dorchester on Omio.

A view of Weymouth

Day trip from Dorchester to Weymouth by train

Why visit Weymouth for the day?

Weymouth is a traditional seaside town on Dorset’s Jurassic Coast, known for its sandy beach, harbour and Georgian seafront. It has a relaxed holiday feel, with coastal walks, watersports and strong maritime character.

How to get from Dorchester to Weymouth by train?

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:10, the last at 23:25. The fastest train covers the 12 km distance in 10m.

A view of Bournemouth

Day trip from Dorchester to Bournemouth by train

Why visit Bournemouth for the day?

Bournemouth is a south coast seaside town known for its long sandy beach, Victorian gardens and pier. It has a relaxed holiday feel, with a busy seafront, clifftop views and a lively town centre.

How to get from Dorchester to Bournemouth by train?

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:03, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 39 km distance in 41m.

A view of Poole

Day trip from Dorchester to Poole by train

Why visit Poole for the day?

Poole is known for its vast natural harbour, historic quay and strong sailing culture. It blends a working waterfront with nearby beaches and a relaxed Dorset coastal feel.

How to get from Dorchester to Poole by train?

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:08, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 31 km distance in 27m.

A view of Southampton

Day trip from Dorchester to Southampton by train

Why visit Southampton for the day?

Southampton is a maritime city on England’s south coast, known for its ocean liner history and links to the Titanic. Medieval walls and museums stand near a busy waterfront and modern shopping centre, giving it a lively yet practical feel.

How to get from Dorchester to Southampton by train?

There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 01:45, the last at 23:03. The fastest train covers the 75 km distance in 1h 17m.

A view of Winchester

Day trip from Dorchester to Winchester by train

Why visit Winchester for the day?

Winchester is a historic Hampshire city known for its cathedral, medieval streets and links to King Alfred the Great. Once an Anglo-Saxon capital, it feels compact, walkable and quietly elegant.

How to get from Dorchester to Winchester by train?

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:56, the last at 22:44. The fastest train covers the 87 km distance in 1h 34m.

FAQs: London to Dorchester train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London to Dorchester 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 Dorchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from London to Dorchester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £9, while the average price tends to be around £51.
The train journey from London to Dorchester covers a distance of 184 km and takes approximately 2h 3m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from London to Dorchester is 184 km.
The first train from London to Dorchester leaves at 0:12.
The last train from London to Dorchester departs at 23:53.
Trains from London to Dorchester run approximately 8 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from London to Dorchester.
Yes, there is a direct train between London and Dorchester. The service operates 4 times per day, provided by South Western Railway.
Yes, there is a night train from London to Dorchester.
The train station in London that goes to Dorchester is London Waterloo (WAT), and it arrives at Dorchester South (DCH).
Booking trains from London to Dorchester in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from London to Dorchester offers a scenic route through the English countryside, featuring rolling hills, charming villages, and glimpses of the picturesque Dorset landscapes.
Yes, you can take the train from London to Dorchester.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in London and Dorchester

Most London to Dorchester trains use the London Waterloo to Dorchester South station pair, with some services arriving at Dorchester West. Use this guide to compare London and Dorchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in London
Arrival train stations in Dorchester

Which London station do trains to Dorchester leave from?

Trains from London to Dorchester leave from London Waterloo. The station is 1 km from London city centre at London Waterloo station, Station Approach, London, Greater London., SE1 8SW.
London WaterlooLondon Waterloo station, Station Approach, London, Greater London., SE1 8SW+44 3451652030WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to London Waterloo from London city centre

London Waterloo is 1 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus139 · 10m · £2 · every ~27 min
SubwayNorthern · 3m · £1 · every ~86 min

London Waterloo train station facilities and services

London Waterloo has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at London Waterloo.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at London Waterloo. ATMs are available at London Waterloo.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at London Waterloo. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, 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 London Waterloo: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at London Waterloo: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at London Waterloo: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: There is step free access from the main concourse to all platforms, shops and facilities. Step free exits are exit 1 (Station approach), exit 2 (with a lift to Waterloo Road and lift access to the London Underground Jubilee line), and exit 3 for taxis and onward travel towards the South Bank, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available from the taxi rank on Cab Road / Station Approach, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket machines are located at various locations on the main concourse and are accessible to wheelchair users, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

London VictoriaLondon Victoria station, Victoria Street, London, Greater London, SW1V 1JU+44 3450774224WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to London Victoria from London city centre

London Victoria is 1 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus24 · 8m · £2 · every ~25 min
148 · 9m · £2 · every ~30 min
38, N38 · 10m · £2 · every ~46 min
390 · 25m · £2 · every ~26 min
26, N26 · 28m · £4 · every ~27 min
A8 · 37m · £1 · every ~10 min
SubwayCircle, District · 5m · £2 · every ~108 min

London Victoria train station facilities and services

London Victoria has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at London Victoria.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at London Victoria. ATMs are available at London Victoria.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at London Victoria. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, 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 London Victoria: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at London Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at London Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: There is step free access at London Victoria Rail Station to the Victoria Line on the Underground. This can be accessed via the Cardinal Place entrance to the underground, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Main concourse, Accessible taxis: Available on request Taxi rank outside main station entrance, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Sunday 24 Hours a Day, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

London PaddingtonPraed Street, London, Greater London, W2 1HQ, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to London Paddington from London city centre

TrainElizabeth · 7m · £2 · every ~21 min
BusN118, N18 · 21m · £4 · every ~6 min
36 · 31m · £21 · every ~29 min
N205 · 32m · £4 · every ~2 min
46 · 1h 22m · £2 · every ~19 min
SubwayBakerloo · 12m · £4 · every ~65 min

London Paddington train station facilities and services

London Paddington has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Wasabi, The Beer House, Barburrito, Upper Crust, The Mad Bishop & Bear (Fullers), The Pasty Shop, Burger King, Pret a Manger, The Savanna, Soboro Bakery, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located next to the ticket office.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open 24/7. Information desks are located near Platform 1.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located near the taxi stand beside Platform 11. . Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at London Paddington: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at London Paddington: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at London Paddington: Wheelchair access, escalators, elevators.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hilton London Paddington, Mercure London Paddington Hotel, The Pilgrm.

More options for your journey from London to Dorchester

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone