- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Major university museum with classical sculptures, paintings, antiquities, and decorative arts. Strong choice for a broad first visit.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£31
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£47
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
2 h 40 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
2 h 48 m
Trains on 18 Sept
4
Distance
84 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge will cost around £47 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £31.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 4 trains from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge, including 4 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 84 km distance in an average of 2 h 48 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 40 m .
The slowest trains will take 2 h 59 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.
8:302h45Southend-on-Sea11:15Cambridge£311One-way0 changes- 5:012h49Southend-on-Sea7:50Cambridge£411One-way0 changes
- 5:422h40Southend-on-Sea8:22Cambridge£571One-way0 changes
- 7:502h59Southend-on-Sea10:49Cambridge£571One-way0 changes
- 5:422h40Southend-on-Sea8:22Cambridge£571One-way0 changes
- 8:302h45Southend-on-Sea11:15Cambridge£311One-way0 changes
- 5:012h49Southend-on-Sea7:50Cambridge£411One-way0 changes
- 7:502h59Southend-on-Sea10:49Cambridge£571One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train for Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £34 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 51m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £34, while a train costs an average of £34.
Distance: 84 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£34 Average Price Cheapest | £18 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 51m Average total duration Fastest 2h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 36m 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 Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge is a train with an average price of £34.
The fastest way to travel from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 2h 21m.
Yes, you can take a train between Southend-on-Sea and Cambridge.
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 £34 compared to roughly £18 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-15.81. The journey takes 2h 21m versus 1h 36m 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
Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge train times
The table below shows live departures for Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge trains for today, Thursday 17 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:13 Southend-on-Sea | 2h36 | 9:49 Cambridge | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:13 Southend-on-Sea | 2h36 | 10:49 Cambridge | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:30 Southend-on-Sea | 2h37 | 11:07 Cambridge | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge 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.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
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24 Sept
24 Sept
Why should you book Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge trains with Omio?
Greater Anglia operates all trains services from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio vs Greater Anglia?
- 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 Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £14 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:40, the last at 22:51. The fastest train covers the 84 km distance in 2h 33m.
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 84 km |
Average train duration 2h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price £14 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 2h 33m |
First train 0:40 |
Last train 22:51 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Train companies: Greater Anglia from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge trainsGreater Anglia trains will get you between Southend-on-Sea and Cambridge from £14. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Greater Anglia
About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greater Anglia Duration
2h 33m
Cheapest Greater Anglia Price
£14
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Cambridge
Things to do in Cambridge
Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.
- Recommended
Kettle's Yard
Contemporary art gallery in a former chapel, showing changing exhibitions by modern and international artists near the city centre.
- Recommended
Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences
Museum of Earth sciences with dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and minerals. Compact, family-friendly, and useful for a rainy day.
- Must visit
The Backs
Riverside green linking college backs and open meadows. Ideal for walking, punting views, and classic Cambridge photographs.
- Must visit
Market Square
Lively square and shopping area with the market, historic streets, and buskers. A practical starting point for exploring the old centre.
- Recommended
Trinity Lane
Historic lane of colleges, chapels, and gateways. A rewarding walk for architecture, student atmosphere, and easy access to central sights.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cambridge burnt cream
A Cambridge creation: a rich dessert of vanilla ice cream, raspberry sauce, whipped cream and meringue, long associated with Cambridge college dining.
- Gluten-free
Cambridgeshire fidget pie
A traditional Cambridgeshire farm dish of braised beef or mutton with onions and root vegetables, reflecting the county’s rural cooking heritage.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pippin paste
An old East Anglian fruit preserve made from windfall apples slowly cooked to a dark, tangy spread, once common in Cambridgeshire households.
Midsummer House
Refined British tasting menus in an elegant, intimate setting just outside the city centre.
The Riverbar Steakhouse and Grill
Long-running riverside restaurant known for modern European cooking and views over the Cam in a smart but relaxed room.
The Eagle
Popular city-centre pub serving cask ales and hearty British food in a lively, historic atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Cambridge is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels and dining are above average, but walking and buses help keep transport costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip around 10% for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafés usually do not expect tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5.50
To the city centre
Cambridge station -> Cambridge City Centre
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card and mobile payments are accepted on Stagecoach buses in Cambridge.
- Frequent Citi 1, 3 and 7 buses link Cambridge station with the city centre.
FAQs: Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £14, while the average price tends to be around £34.
The train journey from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge covers a distance of 84 km and takes approximately 2h 33m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge is 84 km.
The first train from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge leaves at 0:40.
The last train from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge departs at 22:51.
Trains from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge.
To travel from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge.
The train station in Southend-on-Sea that goes to Cambridge is Southend Victoria (SOV), and it arrives at Cambridge station (CBG).
The cheapest way to get from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge is by train, costing approximately £14.
Booking trains from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. As the train travels through Essex and into Cambridgeshire, passengers can enjoy views of the countryside, including fields and small villages, providing a pleasant and varied backdrop.
A day trip from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 33m. However, there are 5 trains per day for this route, covering a distance of 84 km.
In Cambridge, you can enjoy punting on the River Cam for scenic views of the colleges and bridges, visit the interactive Cambridge Science Centre, explore the historic Market Square for local produce and crafts, attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre, or take a guided walking tour to discover the city's rich history. Some of the best sights include King's College Chapel, The Fitzwilliam Museum, The Backs, Trinity College, and the Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
Two to three days in Cambridge allows you to explore its historic university, enjoy punting on the River Cam, visit the Fitzwilliam Museum, and stroll around the city's beautiful gardens and colleges.
Yes, you can take the train from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Southend-on-Sea and Cambridge
Most Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge trains use the Southend Victoria to Cambridge station pair, with some services arriving at Cambridge South. Use this guide to compare Southend-on-Sea and Cambridge train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Southend-on-Sea
Arrival train stations in Cambridge
Which Southend-on-Sea station do trains to Cambridge leave from?
Trains from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge leave from Southend Victoria. The station is 1 km from Southend-on-Sea city centre at Southend Victoria station, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6AZ.
Southend VictoriaSouthend Victoria station, Victoria Avenue, Southend-on-Sea, Essex, SS2 6AZ
City-centre transport
Getting to Southend Victoria from Southend-on-Sea city centre
Bus25, 7, 20, 825, 827, 21S, 28, 21, 3, 26, 20S · 3m · £3 · every ~69 min
Southend Victoria train station facilities and services
Southend Victoria has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southend Victoria.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southend Victoria. ATMs are available at Southend Victoria.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southend Victoria. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, 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 Southend Victoria: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southend Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southend Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Taxi rank at front of 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: No.
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.
Which Cambridge station do trains from Southend-on-Sea arrive at?
Trains from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge most often arrive at Cambridge. Some services arrive at Cambridge South, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cambridge arrival station.
CambridgeCambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge is 1 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
BusU1, U2 · 11m · every ~11 min
Tour · 13m · £2
75 · 15m
A · 15m · £2 · every ~11 min
Cambridge train station facilities and services
Cambridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge. ATMs are available at Cambridge.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cambridge.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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: No.
Cambridge SouthTrumpington, Cambridge CB2 9FQ, UK
Cambridge NorthCambridge North Station, Cowley Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0WZ+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge North from Cambridge city centre
Cambridge North is 3 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Liverpool Street - Cambridge North, Stansted Airport - Norwich, Cambridge - Norwich, London Liverpool Street - Ely, Stansted Airport - Lowestoft, Cambridge - Cambridge North, Bishops Stortford - Cambridge North, Audley End - Cambridge North, Audley End - Norwich · 3m · £2 · every ~6 min
BusB · 12m · £2 · every ~8 min
114 · 18m
2, B · 23m · £2 · every ~19 min
Cambridge North train station facilities and services
Cambridge North has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cambridge North.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge North.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cambridge North: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cambridge North: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge North: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff, 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 Southend-on-Sea
More options for your journey from Southend-on-Sea to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cambridge and Southend-on-Sea
Most popular train connections to Cambridge
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