- Must visit
The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum
Cheltenham's main museum and art gallery, covering local history, decorative arts and changing exhibitions in a central Regency building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Cheltenham
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 23 Sept
Cheapest price on 23 Sept
£65
Average ticket price on 23 Sept
£65
Fastest journey on 23 Sept
2 h 52 m
Average journey duration on 23 Sept
2 h 59 m
Trains on 23 Sept
3
Distance
120 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton to Cheltenham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Cheltenham will cost around £65 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £65.
Fast trains
On Wed 23 Sept, we found 3 trains from Southampton to Cheltenham, including 3 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 120 km distance in an average of 2 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 52 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 6 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.
7:103h00Southampton10:10Cheltenham£651One-way0 changes- 5:472h52Southampton8:39Cheltenham£651One-way0 changes
- 4:333h06Southampton7:39Cheltenham£651One-way0 changes
- 5:472h52Southampton8:39Cheltenham£651One-way0 changes
- 7:103h00Southampton10:10Cheltenham£651One-way0 changes
- 4:333h06Southampton7:39Cheltenham£651One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Southampton to Cheltenham
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Cheltenham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £44 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 1m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £44, while a train costs an average of £69.
Distance: 120 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£69 Average Price | £44 Average Price Cheapest | £24 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 1m Average total duration Fastest 2h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration 4h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Southampton to Cheltenham is a coach with an average price of £44.
This is compared to other travel options from Southampton to Cheltenham:
A coach is £25 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Cheltenham costing on average £69.
The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Cheltenham is by train with an average journey time of 2h 31m.
Other travel options to Cheltenham take longer:
Coach takes on average 4h 4m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Cheltenham including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around £69 compared to roughly £24 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-45.00. The journey takes 2h 31m versus 2h 0m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Southampton to Cheltenham train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Cheltenham trains for tomorrow, Wednesday 23 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:33 Southampton | 3h06 | 7:39 Cheltenham | 0 changesdirect | |
| 5:47 Southampton | 2h52 | 8:39 Cheltenham | 0 changesdirect | |
| 7:10 Southampton | 3h00 | 10:10 Cheltenham | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Cheltenham by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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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23 Sept
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Why should you book Southampton to Cheltenham trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Great Western Railway offer trains services from Southampton to Cheltenham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Cheltenham.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Cheltenham.
- 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Southampton to Cheltenham.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Cheltenham.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Cheltenham.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Cheltenham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Cheltenham run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £31 but you can travel from only £25 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 05:15, the last at 21:05. The fastest train covers the 120 km distance in 2h 13m.
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 £25
Distance 120 km |
Average train duration 2h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price £31 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 13m |
First train 5:15 |
Last train 21:05 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sept |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 4 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 £25
Train companies: Great Western Railway, CrossCountry from Southampton to Cheltenham trainsGreat Western Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Southampton and Cheltenham from £25. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 20m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£31
Great Western Railway frequency
5 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 13m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£137
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 Cheltenham
Things to do in Cheltenham
Discover the best of Cheltenham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cheltenham trip today.
- Recommended
Holst Victorian House Spa Museum
Museum in Pittville Pump Room exploring Cheltenham's spa history, with displays on mineral waters, visitors and Regency society.
- Recommended
Holst Victorian House
Composer Gustav Holst's birthplace, furnished with period rooms and musical displays that bring Victorian Cheltenham to life.
- Must visit
Imperial Gardens
Formal Regency gardens beside the Promenade, popular for walks, floral displays, events and views of historic Cheltenham buildings.
- Must visit
Pittville Park
Large ornamental park with lake, playgrounds and broad paths, ideal for relaxed walks near the famous Pump Room.
- Recommended
Montpellier
Leafy district known for Regency architecture, boutiques and garden spaces, offering one of Cheltenham's most elegant walking areas.
- Gluten-free
Gloucester Old Spot Pork
Gloucester Old Spot pork from a traditional local breed, often served as roast or sausages. It is closely linked to Gloucestershire farming heritage.
- Gluten-free
Gloucester Cheese
Single or double Gloucester is a historic local cheese from Gloucestershire, prized for its rich, creamy taste and long county tradition.
- Gluten-free
Stinking Bishop Cheese
A hard-pressed cow’s milk cheese from nearby Gloucestershire, traditionally matured for a full, nutty flavour and strong regional identity.
Le Champignon Sauvage
Refined modern British dining in elegant surroundings, known for polished tasting menus and carefully sourced seasonal ingredients.
Petit Coco
Long-established French bistro with a lively, relaxed feel. Known for steak frites, seafood and classic brasserie dishes.
The Ox
Stylish contemporary restaurant serving seasonal British cooking, craft drinks and brunch in a smart but informal setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate by UK standards. Hotels and dining are pricier than smaller towns, but cheaper than London; local buses and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafés: rounding up is fine. Taxis: round up or tip about 10% for good service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city centre
Cheltenham Spa -> Cheltenham Town Centre, Promenade
- Distance
- 3.4 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless payment is available on all Stagecoach buses in Cheltenham.
- Cheltenham local buses are operated by Stagecoach; buy tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app or on board.
FAQs: Southampton to Cheltenham train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton to Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Southampton to Cheltenham can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £31, while the average price tends to be around £69.
The train journey from Southampton to Cheltenham covers a distance of 120 km and takes approximately 2h 13m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Southampton to Cheltenham is 120 km.
The first train from Southampton to Cheltenham leaves at 5:15.
The last train from Southampton to Cheltenham departs at 21:05.
Trains from Southampton to Cheltenham run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Southampton to Cheltenham.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Cheltenham.
There is no night train service from Southampton to Cheltenham.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Cheltenham is Southampton Central (SOU), and it arrives at Cheltenham Spa (CNM).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Cheltenham is by coach, costing approximately £25.
Booking trains from Southampton to Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham offers pleasant views of the English countryside, with stretches through the Cotswolds providing particularly scenic landscapes.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Cheltenham.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Southampton and Cheltenham
Most Southampton to Cheltenham trains use the Southampton Central to Cheltenham Spa station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham
Which Southampton station do trains to Cheltenham leave from?
Trains from Southampton to Cheltenham 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.
Which Cheltenham station do trains from Southampton arrive at?
Trains from Southampton to Cheltenham arrive at Cheltenham Spa. Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre.
Cheltenham SpaCheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom+44 345 165 2030
City-centre transport
Getting to Cheltenham Spa from Cheltenham city centre
Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD, E, G · 7m · £4 · every ~25 min
M1 · 8m
Cheltenham Spa train station facilities and services
Cheltenham Spa has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Railway Inn, The Coconut Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham Spa. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Cheltenham Spa. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham Spa: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Queens Hotel Cheltenham, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham, Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham.
Most popular train connections from Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton to Cheltenham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cheltenham and Southampton
Most popular train connections to Cheltenham
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