- Must visit
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
Main local museum covering Highland history, archaeology, Jacobite stories and natural heritage. A strong introduction to Inverness and the region.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Inverness
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 01 Sept
Cheapest price on 01 Sept
£437
Average ticket price on 01 Sept
£452
Fastest journey on 01 Sept
10 h 50 m
Average journey duration on 01 Sept
12 h 50 m
Trains on 01 Sept
6
Distance
754 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton to Inverness is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Inverness will cost around £452 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £437.
Fast trains
To travel from Southampton to Inverness you need to make at least one change.
5:1511h47Southampton17:02Inverness£4371One-way2 changes- 11:1512h04Southampton23:19Inverness£4371One-way2 changes
- 20:1518h01Southampton14:16Inverness£4371One-way2 changes
- 15:1517h20Southampton8:35Inverness£4511One-way2 changes
- 9:1510h50Southampton20:05Inverness£4691One-way2 changes
- 9:1510h50Southampton20:05Inverness£4691One-way2 changes
- 5:1511h47Southampton17:02Inverness£4371One-way2 changes
- 11:1512h04Southampton23:19Inverness£4371One-way2 changes
- 7:5512h10Southampton20:05Inverness£4801One-way1 change
- 15:1517h20Southampton8:35Inverness£4511One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train, coach and flight for Southampton to Inverness
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Inverness among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the flight, with an average ticket price of £56 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 34m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of £56, while a train costs an average of £147.
Distance: 754 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Coach |
|---|---|---|
£147 Average Price | £56 Average Price Cheapest | £69 Average Price |
10h 26m Average total duration 9h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 34m Average total duration Fastest 1h 34m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 20h 52m Average total duration 20h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Southampton to Inverness train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Inverness trains for today, Monday 31 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 20:15 Southampton | 18h01 | 14:16 Inverness | 2 changes | |
| Tuesday 1 September | |||||
| 5:15 Southampton | 11h47 | 17:02 Inverness | 2 changes | |
| 7:55 Southampton | 12h10 | 20:05 Inverness | 1 change | |
| 9:15 Southampton | 10h50 | 20:05 Inverness | 2 changes | |
| 11:15 Southampton | 12h04 | 23:19 Inverness | 2 changes | |
| 15:15 Southampton | 17h20 | 8:35 Inverness | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Inverness by train, coach or flight
Compare train, coach and flight 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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01 Sept
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Wed
02 Sept
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03 Sept
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04 Sept
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Inverness
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Inverness run on average 4 times per day, taking around 9h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £146 but you can travel from only £43 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 20:15. The fastest train covers the 754 km distance in 10h 38m.
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
Flight from £43
Distance 754 km |
Average train duration 9h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price £146 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 10h 38m |
First train 4:54 |
Last train 20:15 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 7 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
Flight from £43
Train companies: London North Eastern Railway, Cross Country from Southampton to Inverness trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, Cross Country trains will get you between Southampton and Inverness from £43. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
10h 38m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£146
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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
10h 47m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£437
Cross Country frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Inverness
Things to do in Inverness
Discover the best of Inverness — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Inverness trip today.
- Recommended
The Highlanders' Museum
Small military museum at Fort George with regimental collections, uniforms and medals. Best for visitors interested in Highland army history.
Highland Archive Centre
Community museum in a former church telling the story of Highland life through local artefacts, archives and changing displays near central Inverness.
- Must visit
Ness Islands
Tree-lined riverside walk linking islands, bridges and paths on the River Ness. Popular for gentle walks, views and a peaceful break near the centre.
- Recommended
Ness Walk
Attractive promenade along the River Ness with mature trees, historic buildings and access to the cathedral, theatre and city centre walks.
- Recommended
Muirtown Locks
Canal-side walking area south-west of the city where boats pass through locks. It offers easy waterside views and a different side of Inverness.
- Vegetarian
Scottish Porridge
Classic Highland porridge made with oats, water or milk, and salt. A staple breakfast in the Highlands, prized for warmth and simplicity.
- Gluten-free
Black Isle Smoked Salmon
Cured salmon from the nearby Black Isle, often lightly smoked. It showcases the region’s excellent fish and traditional smoking methods.
Haggis
A rich savoury pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet and spice, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. Scotland’s most famous traditional dish.
MacGregor's Bar
Well-known traditional venue for haggis, pies and Scottish comfort food, with a lively, informal feel in the city centre.
The Mustard Seed
Popular modern bistro serving Scottish seafood, steaks and classics in a relaxed central setting by the River Ness.
Rocpool Restaurant
Stylish restaurant focused on local Highland produce, including venison, beef and seafood, with a smart but welcoming atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: accommodation can rise in peak season, but dining and local buses are similar to other regional tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafés do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city centre
Inverness Airport -> Inverness Bus Station, Inverness
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless payment is available on Stagecoach buses in Inverness. You can also buy mobile tickets in the Stagecoach Bus app.
- Inverness bus fares are currently capped at £2 single on included Highlands services. Check the operator before travel if you are using a non-Stagecoach or council-run route.
FAQs: Southampton to Inverness train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton to Inverness 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 Inverness, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Southampton to Inverness can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £146, while the average price tends to be around £147.
The train journey from Southampton to Inverness covers a distance of 754 km and takes approximately 10h 38m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Southampton to Inverness is 754 km.
The first train from Southampton to Inverness leaves at 4:54.
The last train from Southampton to Inverness departs at 20:15.
Trains from Southampton to Inverness run approximately 4 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Southampton to Inverness.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Inverness.
To get from Southampton to Inverness, you can choose from several travel options including train, coach and flight.
There is no night train service from Southampton to Inverness.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Inverness is Southampton Central (SOU), and it arrives at Inverness station (INV).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Inverness is by flight, costing approximately £43.
Booking trains from Southampton to Inverness in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, the train journey from Southampton to Inverness is considered scenic, offering views of the English countryside, rolling hills, and diverse landscapes as it travels through regions such as the Cotswolds and the Scottish Highlands.
A day trip from Southampton to Inverness is not feasible as the journey takes 10h 38m. Trains operate 3 times per day over a distance of 754 km.
In Inverness, you can explore local history and art at the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery, enjoy performances at Eden Court Theatre, and take a scenic walk through Ness Islands. Discover the historic Caledonian Canal by boat or on foot, and explore the natural beauty of Merkinch Local Nature Reserve. Visit best sights like Inverness Castle for panoramic views, the famous Loch Ness, Culloden Battlefield with its visitor centre, the impressive Inverness Cathedral, and the ancient Clava Cairns.
Three to four days in Inverness is ideal for exploring the city's highlights, including the historic Inverness Castle, the picturesque River Ness, and nearby attractions like Loch Ness and Culloden Battlefield.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Inverness.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Southampton and Inverness
Most Southampton to Inverness trains use the Southampton Central to Inverness station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Inverness 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 Inverness
Which Southampton station do trains to Inverness leave from?
Trains from Southampton to Inverness 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.
Southampton Airport ParkwaySouthampton Airport Parkway station, Wide Lane, Southampton, Hampshire, SO18 2HW+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Airport Parkway from Southampton city centre
Southampton Airport Parkway is 5 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSalisbury - Romsey, Weymouth - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - Winchester, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Weymouth - Woking, Bournemouth - Basingstoke, Poole - Winchester, Southampton Central - Basingstoke, Bournemouth - London Waterloo, Poole - Eastleigh, Weymouth - Eastleigh, Romsey - Romsey, Southampton Central - Woking, Salisbury - Salisbury, Salisbury - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Eastleigh, Southampton Central - Romsey · 10m · £3 · every ~8 min
BusU1a, U1e · 34m · £2 · every ~21 min
U1a, U1e · 40m · £2 · every ~37 min
Southampton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services
Southampton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Airport Parkway.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Airport Parkway: 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.
Which Inverness station do trains from Southampton arrive at?
Trains from Southampton to Inverness arrive at Inverness. Inverness is from Inverness city centre.
InvernessInverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Inverness from Inverness city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBuses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park
Inverness train station facilities and services
Inverness has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Inverness.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Inverness. ATMs are available at Inverness.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Inverness. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), 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 Inverness: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Inverness: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Inverness: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 3, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this 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: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton to Inverness
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Inverness and Southampton
Most popular train connections to Inverness
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