If you need to get from the capital to the coast when you are travelling in the UK, trains from London to Southampton are a good option.
Two companies run trains on this route: Southern and South West Trains. There are several key differences between the companies’ offerings. The first is that Southern run services from Victoria station, while South West Trains run services from Waterloo station.
The second is that Southern tends to have slightly slower trains and less frequent departures, but much cheaper ticket prices if you book well in advance.
Trains leave frequently from Waterloo and Victoria train stations, and arrive at Southampton Central train station in the city centre. Some trains from London to Southampton require a change at Basingstoke en route.
Departures from Waterloo take place up to four times an hour at peak times, whereas departures from Victoria only take place up to once an hour. The journey time varies from 1 hour and 14 minutes to 2 hours and 27 minutes, depending on the train you take.
Single train tickets on Southern trains from London to Southampton can cost as little as £38.20 for first class and £5.00 for standard class if you book online well in advance. Singles on South West Trains cost £59.30 first class and £35.90 for standard class. Prices are higher if you buy a ticket for travel at peak times or if you make your booking on or close to the date of travel. Further reductions are available if you purchase your tickets with a railcard or are eligible for concessions.