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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Canterbury
Showing times and prices for 29 Dec
Cheapest price
£32
Average price
£78
Fastest journey
3 h 34 m
Average duration
3 h 54 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
178 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton to Canterbury is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Canterbury will cost around £78 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £32.
Fast trains
To travel from Southampton to Canterbury you need to make at least one change.
X13551 · X13333 · X13244+
J3119609:504h44
Southampton Central (SOU)14:34Canterbury West (CBW)
£321One-way
3 changes
X13654 · X13435 · X13346+J3120208:504h44
Southampton Central (SOU)13:34Canterbury West (CBW)
£331One-way
3 changes
Q43020+J2775909:303h49
Southampton Central (SOU)13:19Canterbury West (CBW)
£961One-way
1 change
Q43003+
Tube from London Waterloo to London St Pancras International+J6252509:003h34
Southampton Central (SOU)12:34Canterbury West (CBW)
£961One-way
2 changes
Q43004+Tube from London Waterloo to London St Pancras International+J3121408:003h34
Southampton Central (SOU)11:34Canterbury West (CBW)
£1061One-way
2 changes
Q43003+Tube from London Waterloo to London St Pancras International+J6252509:003h34
Southampton Central (SOU)12:34Canterbury West (CBW)
£961One-way
2 changes
Q43004+Tube from London Waterloo to London St Pancras International+J3121408:003h34
Southampton Central (SOU)11:34Canterbury West (CBW)
£1061One-way
2 changes
Q43020+J2775909:303h49
Southampton Central (SOU)13:19Canterbury West (CBW)
£961One-way
1 change
Q42981+J2779008:303h49
Southampton Central (SOU)12:19Canterbury West (CBW)
£1061One-way
1 change
X13551 · X13333 · X13244+J3119609:504h44
Southampton Central (SOU)14:34Canterbury West (CBW)
£321One-way
3 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Southampton to Canterbury
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Canterbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 11m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £15, and a train costs an average of £32.
Distance: 178 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach |
|---|---|
£32 Average Price | £20 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 41m Average total duration Fastest 3h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 20m Average total duration 4h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Southampton to Canterbury train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Canterbury trains for tomorrow, Monday 29 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 22:34
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Q43004+Tube from London Waterloo to London St Pancras International+J31214 | On time 08:00 Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h34 | 11:34 Canterbury West (CBW) | 2 changes | |
| Q42981+J27790 | On time 08:30 Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h49 | 12:19 Canterbury West (CBW) | 1 change | |
| X13654 · X13435 · X13346+J31202 | On time 08:50 Southampton Central (SOU) | 4h44 | 13:34 Canterbury West (CBW) | 3 changes | |
| Q43003+Tube from London Waterloo to London St Pancras International+J62525 | On time 09:00 Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h34 | 12:34 Canterbury West (CBW) | 2 changes | |
| Q43020+J27759 | On time 09:30 Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h49 | 13:19 Canterbury West (CBW) | 1 change | |
| X13551 · X13333 · X13244+J31196 | On time 09:50 Southampton Central (SOU) | 4h44 | 14:34 Canterbury West (CBW) | 3 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Canterbury by coach or train
Compare coach and train 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.
Mon
29 Dec
29 Dec
Tue
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30 Dec
Wed
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31 Dec
Thu
01 Jan
01 Jan
Fri
02 Jan
02 Jan
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04 Jan
Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Canterbury
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Canterbury run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 11m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £32 but you can travel from only £15 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:49, the last at 22:23. The fastest train covers the 178 km distance in 4h 43m.
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 178 km |
Average train duration 3h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price £32 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 43m |
First train 04:49 |
Last train 22:23 |
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: Southeastern, South Western Railway from Southampton to Canterbury trainsSoutheastern, South Western Railway trains will get you between Southampton and Canterbury from £15. 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 Duration
3h 34m
Cheapest Price
£98
South Western Railway frequency
3 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
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 Duration
3h 43m
Cheapest Price
£79
Southeastern frequency
2 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
FAQs: Southampton to Canterbury train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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.
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.
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.
The train journey from Southampton to Canterbury offers a pleasant view of the English countryside, including glimpses of rolling hills and charming villages, though it may not be considered among the most scenic routes in the UK.
A day trip from Southampton to Canterbury is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 43m and covers 178 km. There are 6 trains per day.
The train distance from Southampton to Canterbury is 178 km.
To get from Southampton to Canterbury, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
The train journey from Southampton to Canterbury covers a distance of 178 km and takes approximately 4h 43m. Trains run 6 per day.
The first train from Southampton to Canterbury leaves at 4:49.
Booking trains from Southampton to Canterbury in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The cost of a train ticket from Southampton to Canterbury can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £32, while the average price tends to be around £32.
The last train from Southampton to Canterbury departs at 22:23.
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Canterbury is by coach, costing approximately £15.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Canterbury is Southampton Central (SOU), and it arrives at Canterbury West (CBW).
Trains from Southampton to Canterbury run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Southampton to Canterbury.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Canterbury.
There is no night train service from Southampton to Canterbury.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Canterbury.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Southampton and Canterbury
Southampton
Canterbury
The major train station for departures in Southampton is Southampton Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Southampton Central for your trip from Southampton to Canterbury.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 20:45 Saturday 06:00 - 20:45 Sunday 06:30 - 20:45
Parking
- Car Park: Premium-downside
Taxis
- Taxi: Yes outside Platform 4 exit
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located in the Waiting Rooms on Platforms 1 and 4. The National key toilets are located on Platforms 1 and 4; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff upon request. A 'National Key Scheme' key [RADAR] can be purchased by contacting the following. Address: 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF. Tel: 020 7250 3222. Minicom: 020 7250 4119. Fax: 020 7250 0212. Email: [email protected]
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: All platforms. Waiting rooms are heated and seating complies with Code of Practice.
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platform 1 - 200 spaces Platform 4 - 44 spaces Outside Platform 4 entrance - 4 spaces Outside Platform 1 entrance - A new bike hut with 140 two tier spaces
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Southampton Central
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement bus service goes from the north side (Blechynden Terrace) during engineering works. Overnight onward transport goes from the South side (West Quay side)
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:45 - 20:00 Saturday 05:45 - 20:00 Sunday 07:45 - 20:10
Distance to city center
5 kmParking
- Car Park: Upside and Multi-Storey
Taxis
- Taxi: Yes
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located in the Waiting Area on Platform 1. The National key toilets are located in the Waiting Area on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff upon request. A 'National Key Scheme' key [RADAR] can be purchased by contacting the following. Address: 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF. Tel: 020 7250 3222. Minicom: 020 7250 4119. Fax: 020 7250 0212. Email: [email protected]
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Inside booking hall.
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Car park and platform 2
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Southampton Airport Parkway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Through Journeys: Station Forecourt Bus Stop off Wide Lane (A335) Terminating Journeys: Car Park at Eastleigh end, off Wide Lane (A335)
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:00 - 10:45 Saturday Closed Sunday Closed
Distance to city center
2 kmBike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Platforms 1 & 4
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transport options for St Denys
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Belmont Road/Junction with Osborne Road Setting Down only journeys - stop by traffic lights (Thomas Lewis Way/Duke Street)
The major train station for arrivals in Canterbury is Canterbury West. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Canterbury West for your journey to Canterbury from Southampton.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityWC
HotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:15 - 19:30 Saturday 06:15 - 19:30 Sunday 08:30 - 17:00 Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains.
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: Platform 1 - Available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: Platform 1 - Available during staffing hours
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Only available when staff present
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Heated waiting room on platforms 1 and 2 Only available when staff present
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: downside platform - London end
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- 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
Public transport options for Canterbury West
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Station forecourt
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:10 - 20:20 Saturday 06:10 - 20:20 Sunday 07:30 - 19:00 This station is not continuously staffed please see staffing times for details of when staff are available.
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- 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: The Ticket Vending Machines's can only be accessed when the station building is open as they are in the booking hall
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: Platform 2 - Available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: Platform 2 - Available during staffing hours
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Only available when staff present
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Heated waiting room on both platforms Only available when staff present
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platform 2
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- 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
Public transport options for Canterbury East
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Replacement bus stop in Station Road East, opposite the station entrance.
Most popular train connections from Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton to Canterbury
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Canterbury and Southampton
Most popular train connections to Canterbury
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