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Southampton to Folkestone from $45: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Southampton, United Kingdom
to
Folkestone, United Kingdom

How to Get from Southampton to Folkestone: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$45 by busBest price
182.9 kmDistance
2h 23m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Southampton to Folkestone with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
various
Train
Average Duration
3h  13m
Estimated price
$93-177
Recommended
Company
National Express
Bus
Average Duration
5h  51m
Estimated price
$45-64
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 182.9 km
Duration: 2h 23m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  23m
Estimated price
$45-70
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
5h  15m
Estimated price
$55-79
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
3h  33m
Estimated price
$92-175

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $16 $16 $16 $17 $17 $26 $17
Train $114 $124 $126 $125 $125 $116 $93
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Southampton to Folkestone

The journey from Southampton to Folkestone offers a fascinating contrast between the vibrant maritime atmosphere of the bustling port city and the charming coastal vibe found in Folkestone.

Best Neighbourhoods in Folkestone

Folkestone boasts diverse neighborhoods that each highlight distinct attractions and experiences.

The Old Town
• Rich in history with charming cobbled streets.
• Offers excellent art galleries and local shops.
Folkestone Harbour
• Scenic views of the sea and bustling marina.
• Vibrant restaurants and cafes along the waterfront.
Cheriton
• A quieter area with lovely parks for relaxation.
• Convenient access to local amenities and shops.

Best Times To Visit Folkestone's Attractions

Timing your visit to Folkestone's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Folkestone Harbour
Early morning or late afternoon offers stunning views with fewer tourists.
The Leas Promenade
Visit during weekdays for a quieter stroll and serene atmosphere.
The Creative Quarter
Explore in the early evening to enjoy local art events and live music.

Folkestone Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Folkestone experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers ideal for exploring its attractions year-round. Spring and early autumn often provide the best weather, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities and scenic walks with comfortable temperatures.

Dining in Folkestone: A Culinary Adventure

For a distinct dining experience, try the locally-sourced seafood at The Smokehouse, where the flavors of freshly caught fish meet a cozy, laid-back atmosphere, offering a refreshing contrast to Southampton's bustling dining scene. This restaurant highlights the essence of Folkestone’s coastal charm, featuring ingredients that celebrate the local bounty and a menu that reflects the region's unique culinary identity.

Southampton - Folkestone operators

Explore transport companies operating between Southampton and Folkestone, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
0345 6000 650
Website
https://www.southwesternrailway.com/

Train from Southampton Central to London Waterloo

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$40-110

Train from London St Pancras Intl to Folkestone Central

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$45-70
Contact phone
+44 345 322 7021
Website
https://www.southeasternrailway.co.uk/

Train from London Bridge to Folkestone Central

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
$45-70
Contact phone
+44 3451 27 29 20
Website
https://www.southernrailway.com/

Train from Southampton Central to Brighton

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$24-35

Train from Hampden Park (Sussex) to Ashford International

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$14-20
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
08717 81 81 81
Website
https://www.nationalexpress.com/en

Bus from Southampton Coach Station Harbour Parade to Heathrow Airport Terminal 5

Average Duration
1h 40m
Estimated price
$21-30

Bus from Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 to Canterbury

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$24-35

Southampton to Folkestone: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Southampton and Folkestone offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Experience a picturesque journey as you drive 231.7 km from Southampton to Folkestone in just 2 hours and 23 minutes. 💰 Enjoy budget-friendly travel options ranging from £35 to £55 for the drive from Southampton to Folkestone.
Average price
£35 - £54
🚆 Starting from Southampton Central, travelers can embark on a scenic train journey to Folkestone Central with transfers at key stations like Waterloo, Euston, and London St Pancras Intl. 🚆 The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes, offering passengers a comfortable and convenient way to move between these two charming UK destinations. 🚆 With ticket prices ranging from £73 to £140, passengers can enjoy a smooth and hassle-free ride with South Western Railway and South Eastern Trains Service from Southampton to Folkestone.
Departure Point
Southampton Central station
Arrival Point
Folkestone Central station
🚌 Starting from Southampton Coach Station Harbour Parade, travelers can board a National Express bus that heads to Folkestone. The journey will involve transfers at Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 and Bus Station, taking approximately 5 hours and 51 minutes. 🎫 The cost of a bus ticket for this route typically ranges from £35 to £50, offering an affordable and convenient option for those looking to travel between Southampton and Folkestone by bus.
Departure Point
Southampton Coach Station Harbour Parade
Arrival Point
Canterbury station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Southampton to Folkestone.

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The distance between Southampton and Folkestone is 181.9 km by road. By train, it takes approximately 3 hours and 17 minutes to travel from Southampton to Folkestone. If driving by car, the journey can be completed in around 2 hours and 23 minutes. However, if taking a bus, the travel time increases to approximately 5 hours and 49 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Southampton to Folkestone is by bus, which takes 5 hours and 49 minutes and costs approximately £32-£52. However, if you are looking for a more time-efficient option, driving would be the best choice. It takes 2 hours and 23 minutes to reach Folkestone from Southampton by car, with costs ranging from £36-£55.
The prices of a train ticket from Southampton to Folkestone range from £71 to £132. On the other hand, the prices of a bus ticket from Folkestone to Southampton range from £34 to £50.
To get from Southampton to Folkestone without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 231.7 km, which takes around 2 hours and 23 minutes. The driving route allows for flexibility and the freedom to explore along the way. The cost of driving from Southampton to Folkestone ranges from £36 to £55, depending on factors such as petrol prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from Southampton to Folkestone without a car is by train via London. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 17 minutes and typically costs between £71 and £135. There are regular train services operating between Southampton and London, and from London to Folkestone, allowing for a convenient and efficient travel experience.
There is no direct link between Southampton and Folkestone by train. However, you can take a train from Southampton Central to London Waterloo, then transfer to another train at London St. Pancras International that will take you to Folkestone Central. This journey takes approximately 3 hours and 17 minutes. If you prefer to travel by car, the distance is 231.7 km and it takes approximately 2 hours and 23 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Southampton Coach Station to Canterbury, then transfer to another bus that will take you to Folkestone Central. This option takes approximately 5 hours and 49 minutes.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Folkestone. With over 809 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a range of options to suit their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Folkestone start at £43 per night, providing affordable choices for visitors.

Trips from Southampton

Trips to Folkestone