- 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 Southampton to Southend-on-Sea
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 23 Sept
Cheapest price on 23 Sept
£39
Average ticket price on 23 Sept
£41
Fastest journey on 23 Sept
2 h 58 m
Average journey duration on 23 Sept
3 h 4 m
Trains on 23 Sept
2
Distance
164 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton 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 Southampton to Southend-on-Sea will cost around £41 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £39.
Fast trains
On Wed 23 Sept, we found 2 trains from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 164 km distance in an average of 3 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 58 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 10 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.
8:302h58Southampton11:28Southend-on-Sea£391One-way0 changes- 8:003h10Southampton11:10Southend-on-Sea£421One-way0 changes
- 8:302h58Southampton11:28Southend-on-Sea£391One-way0 changes
- 8:003h10Southampton11:10Southend-on-Sea£421One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train for Southampton to Southend-on-Sea
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £51 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 5m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £51, while a train costs an average of £51.
Distance: 164 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£51 Average Price Cheapest | £35 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 5m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea is a train with an average price of £51.
The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea is by train with an average journey time of 2h 35m.
Yes, you can take a train between Southampton and Southend-on-Sea.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 10m sooner (2h 35m by train vs 2h 45m by car). Tickets start at around £51 compared to roughly £35 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Southampton to Southend-on-Sea train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Southend-on-Sea trains for today, Tuesday 22 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 21:00 Southampton | 3h21 | 0:21 Southend-on-Sea | 0 changesdirect | |
| Wednesday 23 September | |||||
| 8:00 Southampton | 3h10 | 11:10 Southend-on-Sea | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:30 Southampton | 2h58 | 11:28 Southend-on-Sea | 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 Southend-on-Sea by train
Compare 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.
Wed
23 Sept
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Why should you book Southampton to Southend-on-Sea trains with Omio?
South Western Railway operates all trains services from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea.
Why book with Omio vs South Western Railway?
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £44 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:30, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 164 km distance in 2h 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 164 km |
Average train duration 2h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price £44 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 31m |
First train 4:30 |
Last train 22:00 |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 21 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
Train companies: South Western Railway from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea trainsSouth Western Railway trains will get you between Southampton and Southend-on-Sea from £44. 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
£44
South Western Railway frequency
6 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
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.
FAQs: Southampton to Southend-on-Sea train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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 Southampton to Southend-on-Sea can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £44, while the average price tends to be around £51.
The train journey from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea covers a distance of 164 km and takes approximately 2h 31m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea is 164 km.
The first train from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea leaves at 4:30.
The last train from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea departs at 22:00.
Trains from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea.
To travel from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Southend-on-Sea is Southampton Central (SOU), and it arrives at Chalkwell (CHW).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea is by train, costing approximately £44.
Booking trains from Southampton 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 Southampton to Southend-on-Sea offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with glimpses of the South Downs and passing through quaint towns, providing a moderately scenic experience.
A day trip from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 31m each way. Trains run 6 times per day over a distance of 164 km.
For a fulfilling experience in Southend-on-Sea, two to three days are ideal to explore its main attractions, including the longest pleasure pier in the world, Adventure Island amusement park, and the beautiful coastline.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Southampton and Southend-on-Sea
Most Southampton to Southend-on-Sea trains use the Southampton Central to Chalkwell station pair, with some services arriving at Southend Airport. Use this guide to compare Southampton 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 Southampton
Arrival train stations in Southend-on-Sea
Which Southampton station do trains to Southend-on-Sea leave from?
Trains from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea 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 Southend-on-Sea station do trains from Southampton arrive at?
Trains from Southampton to Southend-on-Sea most often arrive at Chalkwell. Some services arrive at Southend Airport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Southend-on-Sea arrival station.
ChalkwellChalkwell station, The Ridgeway, Chalkwell, Essex, SS0 8PX
City-centre transport
Getting to Chalkwell from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Chalkwell is 3 km from Southend-on-Sea city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainShoeburyness - London Fenchurch Street, Shoeburyness - London Liverpool Street, Thorpe Bay - London Fenchurch Street, Southend Central - London Fenchurch Street, Shoeburyness - Barking, Southend Central - Upminster, Shoeburyness - Upminster, Southend Central - Barking · 4m · £0.90 · every ~13 min
Bus99Ot · 11m · every ~4 min
1X · 19m · £4 · every ~4 min
Chalkwell train station facilities and services
Chalkwell has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chalkwell.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chalkwell.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chalkwell. 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 Chalkwell: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chalkwell: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chalkwell: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step free access is not available to either platform at this station, Accessible public telephones: No, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
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.
Most popular train connections from Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton 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 Southampton
Most popular train connections to Southend-on-Sea
HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomTrain Times to Southend-on-Sea Southampton to Southend-on-Sea train
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