Trains from East Croydon to Brighton from €11.55

Set your sights on a journey that bridges the urban pulse of East Croydon with the laid-back allure of Brighton. East Croydon, one of the busiest stations outside central London, serves as a key gateway with its modern architecture and extensive transport links. Brighton, famed for its iconic pier and eclectic cultural scene, beckons with a rich history and a lively atmosphere by the coast. This guide will talk about everything from getting to East Croydon station and booking your ticket through Trip.com, to the journey itself, onboard comforts, and what awaits you on arrival in Brighton.

Transport links to East Croydon Station

East Croydon is well-connected, making it an ideal departure point for locals and those coming in from across London. The station is part of Travelcard Zone 5, and benefits from a range of transport links. Multiple London Buses serve the adjacent stops, and a Tramlink stop sits outside the main entrance, providing direct services to Wimbledon, Beckenham, and Elmers End.

There's also a taxi rank on the east side of the station entrance, and nearby car parks and drop-off zones are available for those driving. Rail replacement services and cycle storage for up to 40 bicycles add extra flexibility for getting to and from the station.

Facilities at East Croydon Station

East Croydon is managed by Southern and equipped with extensive passenger amenities. The ticket office is staffed throughout the week, with services available Monday through Sunday for 24 hours. Self-service machines, including accessible machines and height-adjusted counters, are available for purchasing or collecting tickets. While Oyster cards cannot be purchased at the station, they can be topped up and used here. The station offers step-free access to all platforms, including tactile paving and accessible toilets.

Waiting rooms, seating areas, refreshment stalls, and shops provide comfortable environments for waiting passengers. Customer help points are inside and outside the station, and real-time departure and arrival screens offer live service information.

The station also has ATMs and a well-maintained CCTV system for safety. Its design, featuring a striking glass and steel roof, adds a modern architectural touch to your travel experience.

Journey details to Brighton

The rail journey from East Croydon to Brighton covers 38 miles and is served by three leading train operators: Southern, Thameslink, and Gatwick Express. Trains run throughout the day, with the first departure as early as 00:25 and the last leaving at 23:59. The journey time is 46 minutes, although this can vary depending on the service and time of day. Around 94 trains run between these two stations daily, and most services are direct, meaning no changes are required.

On the way to Brighton, popular stops may include Gatwick Airport, Three Bridges, Haywards Heath, and Burgess Hill. These intermediate stations provide convenient links to airports and towns across the South East. Fares start from as little as €11.55, which can vary depending on booking time and travel class.

Navigating Trip.com to purchase your East Croydon to Brighton train tickets is quick and straightforward. Start by entering your travel details on the homepage, specifying East Croydon as your departure point, Brighton as your destination, and your travel date. The site then presents a range of train options, complete with times, durations, and prices, allowing you to compare and choose the best fit for your journey.

Where available, you can select from different ticket types, including standard and First Class, to tailor the experience to your needs. After selecting your preferred service, enter passenger details and proceed to payment, with various secure methods offered. Once completed, you'll receive your ticket electronically, ready for collection at the station or use on your mobile device.

Onboard amenities on the journey

Passengers travelling from East Croydon to Brighton can expect a comfortable onboard experience. All services offer Standard Class seating, with some trains featuring a First Class option. First Class includes more spacious seating, quieter carriages and, in some cases, complimentary refreshments.

Free onboard Wi-Fi is available, and trains also have accessible toilets, designated areas for wheelchair users, and baby changing facilities. Devoted spaces are available for bicycle passengers, although checking the specific train operator's policy in advance is advisable.

Facilities at Brighton Station

Southern manages Brighton Station and offers a comprehensive range of services and amenities. The ticket office is open from 06:00 to 22:00 weekdays and Saturdays and 07:30 to 22:00 on Sundays, making it one of the most accessible operating hours. Multiple self-service ticket machines, accessible counters, and induction loops are available.

Step-free access is provided to all platforms, along with wide access gates, accessible toilets, and tactile paving for visually impaired passengers. There are 26 accessible parking spaces and an impaired mobility set-down and pick-up point near the station entrance. Customer help points are placed strategically throughout the station, with real-time departure and arrival boards offering regular updates.

Inside the station, passengers can enjoy seating areas, waiting rooms, shops, and refreshment kiosks. ATMs, a post box, and cycle storage for up to 740 bicycles are also available. Although there's no left luggage facility on-site, lost property services and staffed assistance are readily accessible.

Attractions near Brighton Station

Brighton is one of the UK's most visited coastal cities, and it's well worth the attention. A short walk from the station, visitors will find the famous Brighton Pier, a Grade II-listed structure with arcades, amusements, and panoramic sea views. The nearby beach is a favourite spot for sunbathers and swimmers, with the National Open Water Swimming Centre just along the coast.

For those interested in architecture and history, the Royal Pavilion is a short distance from the station and offers a fascinating glimpse into Regency-era design. Shoppers will enjoy the Lanes, a maze of narrow, pedestrianised streets filled with boutiques, antique shops, and cafes. The British Airways i360 observation tower provides panoramic coastline views and is another standout attraction within walking distance.

Brighton also boasts a thriving food and drink scene, from fish and chips to vegan street food and international cuisine.

Getting around after arrival

Upon arriving in Brighton, passengers have plenty of options for onward travel. The station has a taxi rank with accessible vehicles, and local bus stops are outside the main entrance. Bus services run throughout the city and coast, making reaching popular neighbourhoods like Hove, Kemp Town and the Marina easy.

Brighton & Hove Buses operates an extensive network connecting much of East Sussex, and contactless payment is accepted. For cyclists, dedicated cycle lanes and bike-friendly roads make it easy to navigate the city. Car hire options are also available nearby if you're planning a more rural escape into the South Downs.

For those looking to connect with other train services, Brighton Station is a hub for routes along the East and West Coastway Lines, offering connections to Portsmouth, Hastings, Lewes, and beyond.