- 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 Southampton to Canterbury
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 27 Sept
Cheapest price on 27 Sept
£78
Average ticket price on 27 Sept
£78
Fastest journey on 27 Sept
3 h 53 m
Average journey duration on 27 Sept
3 h 59 m
Trains on 27 Sept
10
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 £78.
Fast trains
To travel from Southampton to Canterbury you need to make at least 2 changes.
L80138+
J110019:254h55Southampton Central (SOU)14:20Canterbury West (CBW)£781One-way1 change- L80158+J1100010:254h55Southampton Central (SOU)15:20Canterbury West (CBW)£781One-way1 change
- P87977+Q14782 · SW043100+
W049438:524h16Southampton Central (SOU)13:08Canterbury East (CBE)£781One-way3 changes - J11068 · P87977+L79603+
G144139:153h53Southampton Central (SOU)13:08Canterbury East (CBE)£781One-way4 changes - L80138+P85673+
Tube from London Waterloo to London St Pancras International9:254h09Southampton Central (SOU)13:34Canterbury West (CBW)£781One-way2 changes
- J11068 · P87977+L79603+G144139:153h53Southampton Central (SOU)13:08Canterbury East (CBE)£781One-way4 changes
- L79585+J11069 · P87961+C825348:153h53Southampton Central (SOU)12:08Canterbury East (CBE)£781One-way4 changes
- L79642+J11066 · P87998+C8238911:153h53Southampton Central (SOU)15:08Canterbury East (CBE)£781One-way4 changes
- L80138+P85673+Tube from London Waterloo to London St Pancras International9:254h09Southampton Central (SOU)13:34Canterbury West (CBW)£781One-way2 changes
- L80158+P85679+Tube from London Waterloo to London St Pancras International10:254h09Southampton Central (SOU)14:34Canterbury West (CBW)£781One-way2 changes
Live departures
Southampton to Canterbury train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Canterbury trains for tomorrow, Sunday 27 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L79585+J11069 · P87961+C82534 | 8:15 Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h53 | 12:08 Canterbury East (CBE) | 4 changes | |
| SW043100 · Q14782+P87977+W04943 | 8:52 Southampton Central (SOU) | 4h16 | 13:08 Canterbury East (CBE) | 3 changes | |
| L79603+J11068 · P87977+G14413 | 9:15 Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h53 | 13:08 Canterbury East (CBE) | 4 changes | |
| L80138+J11001 | 9:25 Southampton Central (SOU) | 4h55 | 14:20 Canterbury West (CBW) | 1 change | |
| L80138+P85673+Tube from London Waterloo to London St Pancras International | 9:25 Southampton Central (SOU) | 4h09 | 13:34 Canterbury West (CBW) | 2 changes | |
| SW043000 · Q28774+P87982+W04955 | 9:52 Southampton Central (SOU) | 4h16 | 14:08 Canterbury East (CBE) | 3 changes | |
| L80158+J11000 | 10:25 Southampton Central (SOU) | 4h55 | 15:20 Canterbury West (CBW) | 1 change | |
| L80158+P85679+Tube from London Waterloo to London St Pancras International | 10:25 Southampton Central (SOU) | 4h09 | 14:34 Canterbury West (CBW) | 2 changes | |
| SW042900 · Q04862+P87998+W04967 | 10:52 Southampton Central (SOU) | 4h16 | 15:08 Canterbury East (CBE) | 3 changes | |
L79642+J11066 · P87998+ G00874 | 11:15 Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h53 | 15:08 Canterbury East (CBE) | 4 changes | |
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.
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27 Sept
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Why should you book Southampton to Canterbury trains with Omio?
Southern as well as CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Southeastern and more offer trains services from Southampton to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Canterbury.
Why book with Omio vs Southern?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Southern, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, South Western Railway or Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Southampton 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 Southern with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Southampton to Canterbury.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, South Western Railway or Southeastern to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Canterbury.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Canterbury.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Canterbury
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Canterbury run on average 10 times per day, taking around 3h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £31 but you can travel from only £15 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:52, the last at 22:23. The fastest train covers the 178 km distance in 2h 18m.
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 3m |
Cheapest ticket price £31 |
Trains per day 10 |
Fastest train 2h 18m |
First train 4:52 |
Last train 22:23 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 £15
Train companies: South Western Railway, Southeastern, Southern, CrossCountry from Southampton to Canterbury trainsSouth Western Railway, Southeastern, Southern, CrossCountry 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 South Western Railway Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
£47
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
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 39m
Cheapest Southern Price
£31
Southern frequency
1 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
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 18m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£77
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
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
2h 25m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
£31
Southeastern frequency
1 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
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: 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.
The cost of a train ticket from Southampton to Canterbury can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £31, while the average price tends to be around £71.
The train journey from Southampton to Canterbury covers a distance of 178 km and takes approximately 2h 18m. Trains run 10 per day.
The train distance from Southampton to Canterbury is 178 km.
The first train from Southampton to Canterbury leaves at 4:52.
The last train from Southampton to Canterbury departs at 22:23.
Trains from Southampton to Canterbury run approximately 10 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.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Canterbury is Southampton Central (SOU), and it arrives at Canterbury West (CBW).
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 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Canterbury.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Southampton and Canterbury
Most Southampton to Canterbury trains use the Southampton Central to Canterbury West station pair, with some services arriving at Canterbury East. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Canterbury train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Southampton
Arrival train stations in Canterbury
Which Southampton station do trains to Canterbury leave from?
Trains from Southampton to Canterbury leave from Southampton Central. The station is 1 km from Southampton city centre at Southampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · £2 · every ~20 min
Southampton Central train station facilities and services
Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: 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.
RedbridgeRedbridge station, Station Road, Redbridge, Hampshire, SO15 0NB
City-centre transport
Getting to Redbridge from Southampton city centre
Redbridge is 4 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainWeymouth - London Waterloo, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - London Waterloo · 1h 53m · £55 · every ~4 min
Bus032 · 4h 40m · £20 · every ~3 min
SubwayCentral · 2h 52m · £79 · every ~30 min
Redbridge train station facilities and services
Redbridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Lost and Found Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Redbridge.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Redbridge.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Redbridge: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Redbridge: Bike Parking.
Which Canterbury station do trains from Southampton arrive at?
Trains from Southampton to Canterbury most often arrive at Canterbury West. Some services arrive at Canterbury East, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Canterbury arrival station.
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.
Canterbury EastCanterbury East station, Station Road East, Canterbury, Kent, CT1 2RB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury East from Canterbury city centre
Bus649 · 9m
Canterbury East train station facilities and services
Canterbury East has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Canterbury East.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Canterbury East.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Canterbury East. 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 East: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Canterbury East: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury East: 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.
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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