How long is the train from London to Southampton?

The journey from London Waterloo takes approximately 1 hour 20 minutes.

Is Southampton worth visiting?

Yes, it offers great maritime history and shopping.

Can I drive from Loughton to Southampton?

Yes, the route via the M25 and M3 is straightforward.

Are there direct trains from Loughton to Southampton?

No, you must travel to London Waterloo first.

What is the best way to get to the cruise terminal?

Taxis or local buses are available from Southampton Central station.

Loughton

Southampton

Train Driving

Loughton to Southampton

Updated: 29 May 2026

To reach Southampton from Loughton, take the Central Line to London Waterloo, then board a South Western Railway service. The train journey takes about 2 hours. If driving, take the M25 and M3, which covers roughly 95 miles. Southampton is a major port city known for its maritime history and cruise terminals. The journey crosses from the eastern side of London to the south coast.

Total Distance: Driving distance 150 km, straight-line air distance 130 km.

Fastest Way

Driving, provided there is no traffic on the M25.

Cheapest Way

Train with an Advance ticket booked well in advance.

Compare Loughton to Southampton Routes

	Train Direct from Waterloo	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours 15 mins	2 hours 30 mins
Avg Price	£30 - £60	£25 - £40 (fuel)
Operator	South Western Railway	N/A
Route	London Waterloo to Southampton Central.	M25 and M3 motorway.
Tip	Check for engineering works on the M3 or rail lines before departing.	Traffic on the M25 can be heavy; check Google Maps before leaving.

Travel Tips

Parking
Use the Westquay multi-story car park for easy city access.
Rail
Use the South Western Railway app for real-time train tracking.
Traffic
Avoid the M25 during rush hour (07:00-09:00 and 16:00-18:00).
Walking
The city center is compact and easily walkable from the station.
Booking
Book train tickets via the SWR website to avoid booking fees.

Safety Tips

Port Safety
Stay within designated pedestrian areas near the busy port terminals.
Driving
Be cautious of heavy goods vehicles on the M3 motorway.
Night Safety
Avoid walking alone in the industrial port areas after dark.
Emergency
Call 111 for non-emergency medical advice.