- Recommended
Ancient High House
Historic townhouse museum with changing exhibitions on Stafford’s past, period rooms and displays on local people and trade.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Stafford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 04 Sept
Cheapest price on 04 Sept
£28
Average ticket price on 04 Sept
£28
Fastest journey on 04 Sept
3 h 17 m
Average journey duration on 04 Sept
3 h 17 m
Trains on 04 Sept
1
Distance
217 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton to Stafford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Stafford will cost around £28 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £28.
Fast trains
On Fri 04 Sept, we found 1 trains from Southampton to Stafford, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 217 km distance in an average of 3 h 17 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 17 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 17 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.
8:153h17Southampton11:32Stafford£281One-way0 changes
- 8:153h17Southampton11:32Stafford£281One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Southampton to Stafford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Stafford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £27 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 47m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £27, while a coach costs an average of £34.
Distance: 217 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£27 Average Price Cheapest | £34 Average Price | £44 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 47m Average total duration Fastest 3h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 55m Average total duration 9h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Southampton to Stafford is a train with an average price of £27.
This is compared to other travel options from Southampton to Stafford:
A train is £6 less than a coach for this route with tickets for a coach from Southampton to Stafford costing on average £34.
The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Stafford is by train with an average journey time of 3h 17m.
Other travel options to Stafford take longer:
Coach takes on average 9h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Stafford 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 £27 compared to roughly £44 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £16. The journey takes 3h 17m versus 3h 15m 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.
Direct services run with Cross Country.
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 Stafford train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Stafford trains for tomorrow, Friday 4 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:15 Southampton | 3h17 | 11:32 Stafford | 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 Stafford 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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04 Sept
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Why should you book Southampton to Stafford trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Cross Country offer trains services from Southampton to Stafford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Stafford.
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 Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Stafford.
- 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 Stafford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Stafford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Stafford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Stafford run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £27 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:52, the last at 22:26. The fastest train covers the 217 km distance in 3h 17m.
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 217 km |
Average train duration 3h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price £27 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 17m |
First train 4:52 |
Last train 22:26 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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: CrossCountry, Cross Country from Southampton to Stafford trainsCrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Southampton and Stafford from £27. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
3h 17m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£27
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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
3h 6m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£177
Cross Country frequency
25 a day
Complete guide to Stafford
Things to do in Stafford
Discover the best of Stafford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Stafford trip today.
- Recommended
Shire Hall Gallery
Town-centre art space in the Shire Hall showing temporary exhibitions, contemporary work and community-focused displays.
Lock House Museum
Small heritage museum in a restored lock cottage, explaining the county’s waterways through artefacts, models and canal history.
- Recommended
Victoria Park
Riverside park with open lawns, sports facilities, family space and a pleasant walk close to the centre.
- Recommended
Market Square
Historic market square framed by civic buildings and shops, often used for events and an easy base for exploring Stafford.
- Recommended
Stafford Castle Meadows
Open green space beside the castle, good for short walks and views towards the ruins and surrounding countryside.
Staffordshire Oatcake with Cheese and Bacon
A savoury Staffordshire oatcake filled with melted cheese and bacon. It is a local staple from the Potteries and widely eaten across Staffordshire.
Staffordshire Oatcake
A plain Staffordshire oatcake served with butter or cheese. This soft oat pancake is one of the county’s most recognisable traditional foods.
- Vegetarian
Staffordshire Tea Loaf
A rich fruit loaf made with tea-soaked dried fruit and spices, then sliced and spread with butter. It is a long-standing tea-time favourite in Staffordshire.
Joxer Brasserie
Popular Turkish restaurant with grilled meats, meze and warm service. Lively yet comfortable for casual lunches and dinners.
The Dog House
Stylish restaurant in Stafford town centre serving modern British dishes, steaks and grills in a relaxed, polished setting.
The Soup Kitchen
Traditional pub and dining room known for British classics, cask ales and a historic atmosphere near Stafford town centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than in London, while rail travel and central pub meals can still add up for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 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 for good service if not already added. Round up in taxis; cafés usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
MyStaffs
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £8.50
To the city centre
Stafford Railway Station -> Stafford Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10–15 min
- The Knot day ticket gives unlimited same-day travel on most Staffordshire bus operators for £8.50. Check your operator is included before you buy.
- Stafford Railway Station has a taxi rank, and National Rail states the town centre is about a 10–15 min walk away.
FAQs: Southampton to Stafford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton to Stafford 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 Stafford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Southampton to Stafford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £27, while the average price tends to be around £27.
The train journey from Southampton to Stafford covers a distance of 217 km and takes approximately 3h 17m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Southampton to Stafford is 217 km.
The first train from Southampton to Stafford leaves at 4:52.
The last train from Southampton to Stafford departs at 22:26.
Trains from Southampton to Stafford run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Southampton to Stafford.
Yes, there is a direct train between Southampton and Stafford. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
To get from Southampton to Stafford, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Southampton to Stafford.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Stafford is Southampton Central (SOU), and it arrives at Stafford station (STA).
The cheapest way to get from Southampton to Stafford is by train, costing approximately £27.
Booking trains from Southampton to Stafford 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 Stafford offers a mix of urban and countryside views. Passengers can enjoy sights of the English countryside, including fields and small towns, though it is not renowned as one of the most scenic UK routes.
A day trip from Southampton to Stafford is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 17m. However, there are 5 train trips per day. The distance is 217 km.
In Stafford, you can enjoy performances at the Stafford Gatehouse Theatre, explore scenic walking trails along the River Sow, and visit the vibrant Stafford Farmers' Market. For a bit of history, visit Stafford Castle for panoramic views, or the Ancient High House for its period rooms. Shugborough Estate offers a glimpse into Georgian life with its mansion and gardens. Art enthusiasts can discover local works at the Shire Hall Gallery, while Victoria Park provides a relaxing space with floral displays and a café. Golfers can enjoy a round at Stafford Castle Golf Club, and the Staffordshire County Museum offers insights into local history.
To fully explore Stafford's main attractions such as the Ancient High House, Stafford Castle, and the surrounding countryside, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Stafford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Southampton and Stafford
Most Southampton to Stafford trains use the Southampton Central to Stafford station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Stafford 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 Stafford
Which Southampton station do trains to Stafford leave from?
Trains from Southampton to Stafford 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.
Millbrook (Hants)Millbrook station, Millbrook Road West, Millbrook, Hampshire, SO15 0AB
City-centre transport
Getting to Millbrook (Hants) from Southampton city centre
Millbrook (Hants) is 2 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRomsey - Romsey, Romsey - Salisbury, Salisbury - Salisbury, Southampton Central - Romsey, Eastleigh - Salisbury, Southampton Central - Salisbury · 3m · £0.90 · every ~2 min
Bus86 · 4m · £2 · every ~2 min
86 · 9m · £2 · every ~2 min
Millbrook (Hants) train station facilities and services
Millbrook (Hants) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking and Lost and Found Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Millbrook (Hants).
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Millbrook (Hants): Parking.
Which Stafford station do trains from Southampton arrive at?
Trains from Southampton to Stafford arrive at Stafford. Stafford is from Stafford city centre.
StaffordStafford station, Station Road, Stafford, Staffordshire, ST16 2AA
City-centre transport
Getting to Stafford from Stafford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail replacement coach services can be found at the front of the station on the left hand side.
Stafford train station facilities and services
Stafford has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Stafford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Stafford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Stafford. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, 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 Stafford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Stafford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Stafford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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 Stafford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Stafford and Southampton
Most popular train connections to Stafford
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