Is there a direct train?

No, you must change at Ipswich and London Liverpool Street.

How long is the drive?

It typically takes 2 hours via the A12 and A130.

Are dogs allowed on trains?

Yes, up to two dogs are allowed for free on Greater Anglia trains.

Is parking expensive?

Southend seafront parking can cost up to 15 GBP for a full day.

What is the best route?

The A12 is the most direct road route from Suffolk to Essex.

Felixstowe

Southend-on-Sea

Train Driving

Felixstowe to Southend-on-Sea

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from Felixstowe to Southend-on-Sea covers approximately 115 km. You can travel via the A12 and A130 highways, which typically takes 2 hours depending on traffic. Alternatively, the Greater Anglia train service connects Felixstowe to Southend via London Liverpool Street. This route transitions from the Suffolk coast to the Thames Estuary. Expect scenic views of the Essex countryside during the drive. The journey is popular for weekend coastal escapes.

Total Distance: 115 km driving distance; 75 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving is the fastest method, taking approximately 2 hours under normal traffic conditions.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest option if traveling with more than one person, costing roughly 25 GBP in fuel.

Compare Felixstowe to Southend-on-Sea Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	3 hours 15 mins	2 hours
Avg Price	35-50 GBP	20-30 GBP in fuel
Operator	Greater Anglia	Personal Vehicle
Route	Felixstowe to Ipswich, transfer to London Liverpool Street, then to Southend Victoria.	A14, A12, and A130 via Chelmsford.
Tip	Book an Advance ticket online to secure the lowest fare.	Avoid the A12 during morning rush hour near Chelmsford to save time.

Travel Tips

Off-Peak Travel
Travel after 09:30 on weekdays to benefit from cheaper train fares.
Parking
Use the Seaway car park in Southend for easy access to the seafront.
Railcard
Use a Network Railcard to save one-third on your train ticket price.
Traffic Check
Check the Highways England website for A12 roadworks before departing.
Booking
Always book train tickets at least one week in advance for better rates.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
Be cautious of high winds when driving across the Orwell Bridge on the A14.
Personal Belongings
Keep your bags secure in crowded train stations like London Liverpool Street.
Emergency
Dial 999 for emergency services if you encounter a serious incident.
Night Travel
Stick to well-lit main roads if driving late at night through Essex.