Portsmouth to Cambridge train with South Western Railway

Sun 18 Oct
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Thameslink
South Western Railway
Southern
Great Northern
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Thameslink
South Western Railway
Southern
Great Northern
Avanti West Coast
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Portsmouth to Cambridge

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Oct

Cheapest price on 18 Oct

£28

Average ticket price on 18 Oct

£28

Fastest journey on 18 Oct

4 h 12 m

Average journey duration on 18 Oct

4 h 12 m

Trains on 18 Oct

1

Distance

177 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Portsmouth to Cambridge will cost around £28 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £28.

Fast trains

On Sun 18 Oct, we found 1 trains from Portsmouth to Cambridge, including 1 direct services.

These direct trains cover the 177 km distance in an average of 4 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 12 m .

The slowest trains will take 4 h 12 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 Railway
    6:024h12
    Portsmouth
    10:14Cambridge
    £281One-way
    0 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Portsmouth to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Portsmouth to Cambridge run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £29 but you can travel from only £16 by coach.

The earliest train runs at 00:40, the last at 21:44. The fastest train covers the 177 km distance in 2h 39m.

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
177 km
Average train duration
3h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
£29
Trains per day
9
Fastest train
2h 39m
First train
0:40
Last train
21:44
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sept
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
5 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

Live departures

Portsmouth to Cambridge train times

The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Cambridge trains for tomorrow, Sunday 18 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
South Western Railway6:02 Portsmouth
4h12
10:14 Cambridge0 changesdirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Portsmouth to Cambridge trains with Omio?

Thameslink as well as South Western Railway, Southern, Great Northern and more offer trains services from Portsmouth to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio vs Thameslink?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway, Southern or Great Northern to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth to Cambridge.
  • 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 Thameslink with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Portsmouth to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

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

Train companies: South Western Railway, Thameslink, Southern, Great Northern from Portsmouth to Cambridge trainsSouth Western Railway, Thameslink, Southern, Great Northern trains will get you between Portsmouth and Cambridge 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
2h 39m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£29
South Western Railway frequency
4 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

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
3h 30m
Cheapest Southern Price
£32
Southern frequency
3 a day
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

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Thameslink Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Thameslink Price
£32
Thameslink frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Great Northern

About
Great Northern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and sleeper services. The high-speed trains are called InterCity Express Trains and they offer a fast and comfortable journey between major cities. The regional trains are called Regional Express Trains and they provide a slower but more frequent service to smaller towns and villages. The sleeper services are called Caledonian Sleeper Trains and they offer overnight journeys with comfortable sleeping compartments. Great Northern offers a variety of ticket types, including single, return, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Great Northern are London to Cambridge, London to Peterborough, and London to Norwich. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Northern Duration
3h 25m
Cheapest Great Northern Price
£34
Great Northern frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free, maximum two dogs per passenger, must be on lead
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Cambridge

Things to do in Cambridge

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

  • Must visit

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Major university museum with classical sculptures, paintings, antiquities, and decorative arts. Strong choice for a broad first visit.

  • Recommended

Kettle's Yard

Contemporary art gallery in a former chapel, showing changing exhibitions by modern and international artists near the city centre.

  • Recommended

Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences

Museum of Earth sciences with dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and minerals. Compact, family-friendly, and useful for a rainy day.

Pound sterling (£)

Cambridge is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels and dining are above average, but walking and buses help keep transport costs manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for fine dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip around 10% for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafés usually do not expect tips.

Best day trips from Cambridge by train

The most popular day trips by train from Cambridge are London, Ely, Norwich, Peterborough and Bury Saint Edmunds. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Cambridge on Omio.

A view of London

Day trip from Cambridge to London by train

Why visit London for the day?

London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.

How to get from Cambridge to London by train?

There are 16 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 79 km distance in 46m.

A view of Ely

Day trip from Cambridge to Ely by train

Why visit Ely for the day?

Ely is a small Cambridgeshire cathedral city known for Ely Cathedral and its setting above the fens. The compact centre and riverside on the Great Ouse give it a calm historic character.

How to get from Cambridge to Ely by train?

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 11m.

A view of Norwich

Day trip from Cambridge to Norwich by train

Why visit Norwich for the day?

Norwich is known for its Norman cathedral, medieval lanes and strong independent character. Its historic market, literary links and mix of old churches and creative spaces give it a lively but relaxed feel.

How to get from Cambridge to Norwich by train?

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:40. The fastest train covers the 93 km distance in 1h 3m.

A view of Peterborough

Day trip from Cambridge to Peterborough by train

Why visit Peterborough for the day?

Peterborough is known for its magnificent Norman cathedral, Roman heritage and broad modern city centre. It balances historic character with a practical, multicultural feel, while Ferry Meadows and the nearby Fens bring welcome open space.

How to get from Cambridge to Peterborough by train?

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 48 km distance in 43m.

A view of Bury Saint Edmunds

Day trip from Cambridge to Bury Saint Edmunds by train

Why visit Bury Saint Edmunds for the day?

Bury Saint Edmunds is a historic Suffolk market town known for its abbey ruins, cathedral and Georgian centre. It has a compact feel, with Abbey Gardens, independent shops and a long brewing heritage giving it character.

How to get from Cambridge to Bury Saint Edmunds by train?

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:15, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 41 km distance in 37m.

FAQs: Portsmouth to Cambridge train

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

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Portsmouth to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £29, while the average price tends to be around £51.
The train journey from Portsmouth to Cambridge covers a distance of 177 km and takes approximately 2h 39m. Trains run 9 per day.
The train distance from Portsmouth to Cambridge is 177 km.
The first train from Portsmouth to Cambridge leaves at 0:40.
The last train from Portsmouth to Cambridge departs at 21:44.
Trains from Portsmouth to Cambridge run approximately 9 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Portsmouth to Cambridge.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Portsmouth to Cambridge.
There is no night train service from Portsmouth to Cambridge.
The train station in Portsmouth that goes to Cambridge is Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS), and it arrives at Cambridge station (CBG).
Booking trains from Portsmouth to Cambridge in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Portsmouth to Cambridge is not typically considered scenic, as it primarily passes through urban and suburban areas with limited views of noteworthy landscapes.
Yes, you can take the train from Portsmouth to Cambridge.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Portsmouth and Cambridge

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

Departure train stations in Portsmouth
Arrival train stations in Cambridge

Which Portsmouth station do trains to Cambridge leave from?

Trains from Portsmouth to Cambridge leave from Portsmouth & Southsea. The station is from Portsmouth city centre at Portsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ.
Portsmouth & SouthseaPortsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQWifiParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
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.

FrattonFratton station, Selbourne Terrace, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 5AWWifiShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Fratton from Portsmouth city centre

Fratton is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainPortsmouth Harbour - London Waterloo, Portsmouth Harbour - Eastleigh, Portsmouth Harbour - Southampton Central, Portsmouth & Southsea - Southampton Central, Portsmouth Harbour - Woking, Portsmouth & Southsea - London Waterloo, Portsmouth Harbour - Guildford, Portsmouth Harbour - Winchester, Portsmouth Harbour - Basingstoke, Portsmouth & Southsea - Woking, Portsmouth Harbour - Woolston, Portsmouth & Southsea - Woolston, Portsmouth Harbour - Petersfield, Portsmouth Harbour - Fareham · 3m · £1 · every ~10 min
Bus1 · 4m · every ~30 min
13 · 6m · £2 · every ~6 min

Fratton train station facilities and services

Fratton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, 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 Fratton.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Fratton.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Fratton. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 5282100.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Fratton: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Fratton: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Fratton: 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, 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 3PAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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 · £1 · 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.

More options for your journey from Portsmouth to Cambridge

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

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