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London to Brighton train ticket prices

Travelling from London to Brighton by train? Find fares from as low as £8.00. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

£8.00󰄽

On Tue 12 May

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    Sat09 May
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    Sun10 May
  • £10.00󰄽
    Mon11 May
  • Tue12 May
  • £8.00󰄽
    Wed13 May
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    Thu14 May

London to Brighton train timetable

Journey from London to Brighton on the fastest train in 58m, usually 1h 17m. Every day, 286 trains leave from London, starting at 00:02 and ending at 23:40. During Off-Peak Times from 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter and less crowded journey. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with us.

DepartsArrivesOperator

15:05

London Bridge
1h 8m, Direct

16:13

Brighton
Thameslink
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15:05

London Victoria
1h 13m, 1 change

16:18

Brighton
Southern
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15:10

London Bridge
1h 25m, 2 change

16:35

Brighton
Southern
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15:15

London Bridge
1h 3m, Direct

16:18

Brighton
Thameslink
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15:16

London Victoria
1h 19m, 1 change

16:35

Brighton
Southern
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London to Brighton train tickets and times

Plan your journey from London to Brighton with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.

Price
From £8.00
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
46 miles (75km)
Journey time
58m
First train
00:02
Last train
23:40
Frequency
286

Thameslink vs Gatwick Express: Which should you choose? 


The London to Brighton line is served by Thameslink and the Gatwick Express, both part of Govia Thameslink Railway (GTR). Gatwick Express departs from London Victoria, while Thameslink trains from London Bridge. Check the table below to decide the best option for your trip.

Train operators
Avg. duration
Departure station 
Best for
Feature services
Thameslink

1h 10m  

London Bridge

Budget friendly

First Class option, Wi-Fi and roomy seat

Gatwick Express

1h 

London Victoria

Direct travel, speed

Standard and Premium fares both offering large tables and a fast connection for work 


  • Thameslink is the most affordable option, maintaining high comfort standards on board with a similar travelling time to Gatwick Express. 
  • Gatwick Express offers a high-speed and direct connection to Brighton. The train is very efficient and often gets you to Brighton in less than an hour. Tickets are more costly, but it can be a great option for working during your commute or avoiding the stress of catching a connection. 

Train travel from London to Brighton

Reach Brighton in under an hour from London, travelling south through the suburbs of Croydon and into the Surrey and Sussex countryside before arriving at the coast.

London Victoria & Bridge: Getting to the Platform

Victoria has its own built-in Underground station, served by three lines: the Victoria line and the District and Circle lines (sub-surface), making it reachable from virtually anywhere in Zone 1 in under 15 minutes. There’s also a large bus station that sits directly outside the main entrance in the station forecourt.

Victoria is effectively two stations joined together, separated by a central building. Southern and Gatwick Express trains for Brighton depart from the western side (platforms 9–19). The area is very central, with plenty of shops, cafés and food outlets available just outside the station and in the main concourse. Luggage facilities are operated by the Excess Baggage Company inside the station.

London Bridge Station is located in central London, in Southwark, with entrances on both Tooley Street and St Thomas Street. Its Underground Station is on the Northern Line and Jubilee Line, with regular Tube services connecting to anywhere in Zone 1 in under 15 minutes.

The Upper Level provides access to platforms 1–9 for mainline train services, whilst the Lower Level has connections to the Jubilee Line and Northern Line (Bank branch) on the London Underground. There are plenty of shops, restaurants, and cafes throughout the station, and direct access to Borough Market for having a quick meal before departure.  

Onboard trains from London to Brighton

Both Gatwick Express and Southern operate modern, spacious trains on this route, equipped with complimentary Wi-Fi. The route heads south from Victoria through the inner suburbs of Clapham and Balham, picking up speed through Croydon before the landscape opens up into the Surrey and Sussex countryside beyond East Croydon and Gatwick Airport.

The scenic side

The train winds through the densely built urban landscape of south London's inner suburbs and gradually gives way to the Sussex countryside. Beyond East Croydon and Gatwick you can spot rolling hills and open fields stretching out on either side of the tracks.

Key landmarks

Ouse Valley Viaduct, between Balcombe and Haywards Heath, is a breathtaking Victorian structure of 37 arches constructed from warm red brick. It carries the railway line across the River Ouse valley below – a testament to 19th-century railway construction at its finest.

Arriving at Brighton

Brighton station is a spectacular Victorian terminus, opened in 1840. As you step off the train, the main concourse and ticket gates are directly ahead, with shops on the concourse.


The correct exit

  • Main Exit (Queen's Road): Walk straight through the ticket gates and out onto Queen's Road for the most direct route to the seafront. The sea is visible within moments and is approximately a ten-minute walk straight ahead down the hill.

  • Trafalgar Street Exit (North Laine): Head to the left-hand side of the concourse for Trafalgar Street, which leads under the station into the North Laine — Brighton's shopping and café district. 

  • Rear Exit (Cycle Hub & Taxi Rank): The rear exit, accessible through the station, leads to the taxi rank (next to platform 8) and the Brighton Cycle Hub, a purpose-built three-storey facility with storage for 500 bikes, a repair shop, café, showers and changing rooms.

Onward Travel

  • Buses: Six bus stops are located directly in front of Brighton station on the forecourt, served by numerous Brighton & Hove Bus routes. Routes 7 and 27 from the forecourt take you to North Street for the Royal Pavilion, and route 27 also serves the Sea Life Centre near the pier.

  • By foot to the seafront: Brighton Palace Pier and the beach are approximately a 15-minute walk south from the station exit, straight down Queen's Road and West Street. Bournemouth Pier is around 30 minutes on foot, and the Russell-Cotes Art Gallery and Museum is 20 minutes away.


London to Brighton train travel guide

The train journey from London to Brighton combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from London, you can get to Brighton in just 58m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from London to Brighton?

Ticket prices from London to Brighton average around £8.00, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.

How do I find the best train route from London to Brighton?

Make full use of the TrainPal app or website. Our Train Journey Planner is an excellent online planning tool. Simply fill in the cities or stations you depart from and arrive at. Then check timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and see if there are food supplies or other amenities you need. You can get the best train route from London to Brighton.

What is the fastest train from London to Brighton?

The fastest train journey time from London to Brighton is 58m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.

Are there direct trains from London to Brighton?

No, there are no direct trains from London to Brighton. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip

Is it worth taking a train from London to Brighton?

Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

You can book UK train tickets as far as 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is the key period when train operators release their cheapest Advance tickets. Therefore, to ensure you get the best possible fare, we recommend purchasing your tickets as soon as they become available.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find London to Brighton train timetables?

London to Brighton trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.

How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.

Do London to Brighton trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the London to Brighton route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.

How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.

Which train companies operate the London to Brighton route?

The route from London to Brighton is operated by Thameslink. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.

  • Bicycle

    A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules before you travel.

  • Children

    Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.

  • Pets

    You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • Passenger assistance

    All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.

How to buy cheap London to Brighton train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.
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Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

Step-by-step instructions for changing your journey or requesting a refund are available on our ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

If your journey was affected by a delay, cancellation, or strike, please visit our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page. There, you will find live service information and instructions on how to claim Delay Repay compensation.

* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.