A guide to Southeastern high speed (Javelin) services

Southeastern High Speed is a fleet of high-speed trains operated by Southeastern, running primarily on High Speed 1 (HS1)—the same track used by Eurostar services. Launched in 2009 and more famously known as the Javelin during the London 2012 Olympics, these trains significantly cut down travel times between Kent and London.

The services are operated by Class 395 Javelin trains, and can reach speeds of up to 140 mph (225 km/h) on high-speed sections, making them the fastest domestic trains in regular UK service.

The Southeastern High Speed network connects key locations in Kent and East Sussex with London St Pancras International, using HS1 for part of the route. Major destinations include:

• Ashford International
• Canterbury West
• Margate
• Ramsgate
• Dover Priory
• Folkestone Central
• Folkestone West
• Ebbsfleet International
• Stratford International
• London St Pancras International

You can view the full Southeastern High Speed route map on their website.

Trains typically run every 30 minutes during off-peak hours, with more frequent departures during peak periods. First and last trains vary by station, but most High Speed services operate between approximately 5:30 am and midnight.

Some key journey times include:

• St Pancras to Ashford International – around 38 minutes
• St Pancras to Canterbury West – around 56 minutes
• St Pancras to Dover Priory – around 1 hour 6 minutes
• St Pancras to Margate – around 1 hour 20 minutes

Always check the live Southeastern timetable or use the National Rail Enquiries website or app for up-to-date information.

Photo by Les Chatfield

There are several ticket types available depending on your travel needs:

• Advance tickets – Cheaper when booked early; fixed-time travel
• Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak – Great for travelling during quieter times
• Anytime tickets – Maximum flexibility for travel at any time
• Season tickets – Best for regular commuters
• GroupSave – Discounts for 3 to 9 adults travelling together

Yes, First Class is available on Southeastern High Speed trains. First Class carriages offer:

• Wider, more spacious seats
• Quieter coaches ideal for working
• Power sockets at most seats
• Tables suitable for laptops or dining
• Less crowded environments

You can buy First Class tickets in advance or upgrade onboard (subject to availability and staff discretion).

Off-Peak hours typically start after 09:30am Monday to Friday and apply all day on weekends and Bank Holidays. However, this can vary slightly by route and destination.

Travelling during Off-Peak hours is not only more relaxed, but also significantly cheaper. Always check the Southeastern website or app to confirm Off-Peak validity for your specific journey.

Find out more about Southeastern off-peak times here.

Oyster cards and contactless payments are accepted, but only between London St Pancras International and Stratford International, and between St Pancras and Ebbsfleet International on select services.

If you're travelling further into Kent (e.g. Ashford, Canterbury, Dover), you’ll need to buy a valid Southeastern High Speed ticket in advance.

For daily commuters, a Southeastern High Speed Season Ticket is the most cost-effective option. Season tickets are available for:

• Weekly, Monthly, or Annual durations
• Point-to-point routes (e.g., Ashford to London St Pancras)
• Flexible travel across Southeastern and HS1

You can purchase a Southeastern Season Ticket through Trip.com! Find out more about Southeastern Season Tickets here.