- Recommended
Southend Central Museum and Planetarium
Museum beside Prittlewell Priory covering local archaeology, social history and natural history. A strong introduction to Southend and Essex.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Southend-on-Sea
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 10 Oct
Cheapest price on 10 Oct
£107
Average ticket price on 10 Oct
£107
Fastest journey on 10 Oct
4 h 11 m
Average journey duration on 10 Oct
4 h 11 m
Trains on 10 Oct
1
Distance
339 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Southend-on-Sea is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Southend-on-Sea will cost around £107 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £107.
Fast trains
On Sat 10 Oct, we found 1 trains from Preston to Southend-on-Sea, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 339 km distance in an average of 4 h 11 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 11 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 11 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.
10:004h11Preston14:11Southend-on-Sea£1071One-way0 changes
- 10:004h11Preston14:11Southend-on-Sea£1071One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Southend-on-Sea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Southend-on-Sea run on average 30 times per day, taking around 3h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £50 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:00, the last at 21:18. The fastest train covers the 339 km distance in 3h 31m.
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 339 km |
Average train duration 3h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price £50 |
Trains per day 30 |
Fastest train 3h 31m |
First train 4:00 |
Last train 21:18 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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
Why should you book Preston to Southend-on-Sea trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Lumo offer trains services from Preston to Southend-on-Sea.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Southend-on-Sea.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Lumo to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Southend-on-Sea.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Lumo to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Southend-on-Sea.
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Lumo from Preston to Southend-on-Sea trainsAvanti West Coast, Lumo trains will get you between Preston and Southend-on-Sea from £50. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
3h 31m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£53
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Lumo
About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
3h 47m
Cheapest Lumo Price
£50
Lumo frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Southend-on-Sea
Things to do in Southend-on-Sea
Discover the best of Southend-on-Sea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southend-on-Sea trip today.
- Recommended
Prittlewell Priory
Historic house museum in Priory Park with restored rooms, monastic remains and displays on local life. Good for history and architecture.
Southend Pier Museum
Compact museum at the end of the pier exploring the pier’s engineering, railway and seaside heritage. Worth adding to a pier visit.
- Must visit
Southend Seafront
Popular beachfront promenade for walking, cycling and sea views, linking the pier, gardens and classic seaside attractions.
- Recommended
Old Leigh
Lively old fishing quarter with cobbled lanes, cockle sheds, pubs, small galleries and estuary views. Full of local character.
- Recommended
Priory Park
Large park with formal gardens, lake, play areas and the priory complex. A pleasant green space for walks near the centre.
Fish and chips
Freshly landed fish, usually cod or haddock, in batter with chips. A classic Essex seaside meal tied to Southend’s long pier and beachfront chippies.
- Gluten-free
Essex oysters
Briny native or rock oysters from the Thames Estuary area, traditionally eaten very fresh. They reflect the long shellfish heritage of the Essex coast.
Potted shrimps or local prawns
Sweet, delicate prawns from the nearby North Sea and estuary waters, often served simply with bread and butter. A long-standing local seafood favourite.
Food
Stylish restaurant in nearby Leigh-on-Sea focused on British seafood and seasonal cooking. Cosy, polished dining room with estuary character.
Osborne Bros
Historic seafront fish restaurant known for oysters, cockles and classic seafood. Traditional, no-frills atmosphere close to the beach.
The Peterboat
Popular seafood restaurant and fishmonger serving fresh local catch, shellfish and grilled fish. Smart but relaxed setting near the seafront.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside city. Dining and hotels cost less than London, but peak summer stays and seafront areas raise prices. Local buses and trains are standard UK-priced.
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
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafés and pubs do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £6.00
To the city centre
Chalkwell -> Southend Travel Centre
- Distance
- 4 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless Tap&Cap works on First Bus services in Southend-on-Sea and caps fares automatically at the day ticket price.
- Southend bus single fares are generally covered by the £3 fare cap until the end of March 2027.
Best day trips from Southend-on-Sea by train
The most popular day trips by train from Southend-on-Sea are London, Canterbury, Stratford, Colchester and Chelmsford. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Southend-on-Sea on Omio.
Day trip from Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea to London by train?
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 58 km distance in 47m.
Day trip from Southend-on-Sea to Canterbury by train
Why visit Canterbury for the day?
Canterbury is best known for its cathedral, medieval streets and long role in English religious history. Its compact centre mixes historic buildings with a lively student atmosphere, independent shops and riverside walks.
How to get from Southend-on-Sea to Canterbury by train?
The earliest train runs at 05:18, the last at 23:06. The fastest train covers the 38 km distance in 1h 36m.
Day trip from Southend-on-Sea to Stratford by train
Why visit Stratford for the day?
Stratford-upon-Avon is best known as Shakespeare’s birthplace, with a historic centre of Tudor buildings and riverside theatre. It feels like a traditional English market town, shaped by literary heritage, calm walks along the Avon and a steady cultural atmosphere.
How to get from Southend-on-Sea to Stratford by train?
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 50 km distance in 45m.
Day trip from Southend-on-Sea to Colchester by train
Why visit Colchester for the day?
Colchester is an Essex city known as Britain’s oldest recorded town, with Roman roots and a prominent castle. Its historic core, modern cultural venues and easy-going atmosphere make it well suited to a relaxed visit.
How to get from Southend-on-Sea to Colchester by train?
The earliest train runs at 04:01, the last at 23:07. The fastest train covers the 41 km distance in 1h 1m.
Day trip from Southend-on-Sea to Chelmsford by train
Why visit Chelmsford for the day?
Chelmsford is Essex’s county city, known for its cathedral and its links to Guglielmo Marconi. A compact centre, riverside parks and a relaxed modern feel give it an easy balance of history and everyday city life.
How to get from Southend-on-Sea to Chelmsford by train?
The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 28 km distance in 42m.
FAQs: Preston to Southend-on-Sea train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Preston to Southend-on-Sea can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £50, while the average price tends to be around £111.
The train journey from Preston to Southend-on-Sea covers a distance of 339 km and takes approximately 3h 31m. Trains run 30 per day.
The train distance from Preston to Southend-on-Sea is 339 km.
The first train from Preston to Southend-on-Sea leaves at 4:00.
The last train from Preston to Southend-on-Sea departs at 21:18.
Trains from Preston to Southend-on-Sea run approximately 30 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Preston to Southend-on-Sea.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Southend-on-Sea.
There is no night train service from Preston to Southend-on-Sea.
The train station in Preston that goes to Southend-on-Sea is Preston station (PRE), and it arrives at Southend Central (SOC).
Booking trains from Preston to Southend-on-Sea in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Preston to Southend-on-Sea offers a mix of urban and countryside views. Travellers can enjoy glimpses of the picturesque English countryside, passing through rolling hills and charming towns, although sections nearer to major cities may be more industrial.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Southend-on-Sea.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Preston and Southend-on-Sea
Most Preston to Southend-on-Sea trains use the Preston to Southend Central station pair, with some services arriving at Southend Victoria. Use this guide to compare Preston and Southend-on-Sea train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Preston
Arrival train stations in Southend-on-Sea
Which Preston station do trains to Southend-on-Sea leave from?
Trains from Preston to Southend-on-Sea leave from Preston. The station is 1 km from Preston city centre at Fishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · £8 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Which Southend-on-Sea station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Southend-on-Sea most often arrive at Southend Central. Some services arrive at Southend Victoria, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Southend-on-Sea arrival station.
Southend CentralSouthend Central station, Clifftown Road, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS1 1AB+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Southend Central from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBus stops on Clifftown Road near The Last Public House
Southend Central train station facilities and services
Southend Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southend Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southend Central. ATMs are available at Southend Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southend Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03457 44 44 22, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southend Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southend Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Southend VictoriaSouthend Victoria station, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6AZ
City-centre transport
Getting to Southend Victoria from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Bus25, 7, 20, 825, 827, 21S, 28, 21, 3, 26, 20S · 3m · £3 · every ~69 min
Southend Victoria train station facilities and services
Southend 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 Southend Victoria.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southend Victoria. ATMs are available at Southend Victoria.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southend Victoria. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, 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 Southend Victoria: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southend Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Taxi rank at front of station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Southend-on-Sea
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Southend-on-Sea and Preston
Most popular train connections to Southend-on-Sea
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