Trains from London Waterloo to Salisbury from £8.00

The train route from London Waterloo to Salisbury offers a direct link between the capital’s bustling heart and the historic charm of Wiltshire. Covering approximately 80 miles, this journey weaves through the lush landscapes of southern England, passing quaint villages and rolling hills. Operated by South Western Railway, the route is popular with commuters, tourists heading to Stonehenge, and travellers exploring the Cathedral City of Salisbury. With frequent services and scenic views, this trip combines efficiency with a touch of rural tranquility.

Planning your trip from London Waterloo to Salisbury

Trains depart London Waterloo for Salisbury approximately every 32. The journey typically takes around 1 hour 30 minutes, depending on the number of stops. Faster services skip smaller stations like Andover or Grateley, while others may include brief pauses at Basingstoke or Winchester. The first train leaves Waterloo around 06:35 AM, and the last departure is just before midnight. For real-time updates, check our Live Departure and Arrival page.

Standard tickets cost around £8.00. Advance tickets, available up to 12 weeks before travel, often drop to £8.00 for a one-way trip. Railcards such as the Two Together or Senior Railcard can reduce off-peak fares by up to a third. Note that Oyster and contactless payments are only valid as far as Basingstoke, so travellers continuing to Salisbury must purchase a paper or digital ticket for the full journey.

Everything you need to know about London Waterloo Station

Waterloo Station, one of London’s busiest transport hubs, serves as the starting point for this journey. Its grand Victorian architecture houses modern amenities, including a wide range of shops, cafes, and restaurants. Passengers can grab a coffee at Pret A Manger, pick up snacks from M&S Simply Food, or enjoy a sit-down meal at chains like Leon or Wasabi. The station also offers luggage storage services, free Wi-Fi, and accessible facilities such as step-free access and tactile paving.

Waterloo prioritises convenience with amenities like luggage storage and free Wi-Fi. Accessibility is seamless, including step-free access, tactile paving, and staff assistance for passengers with mobility needs. Charging stations and digital information boards keep travellers connected and informed.

The station’s strategic location connects four Underground lines (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, Waterloo & City) and over a dozen bus routes. A short walk leads to the South Bank’s cultural landmarks, including the National Theatre and the London Eye, making it a gateway to both transport and tourism.

During the Journey from London Waterloo to Salisbury

South Western Railway features comfortable 2x2 seating, plug sockets, and free Wi-Fi. First Class carriages (available on select services) provide extra legroom, complimentary refreshments, and quieter surroundings. The journey begins with views of London’s urban sprawl before transitioning to the open countryside of Hampshire and Wiltshire. Highlights include glimpses of Winchester Cathedral’s towering spire, the chalk downs of the South Downs National Park, and the serene Test Valley near Andover.

What you need to know upon arriving at Salisbury Station

Salisbury Station, a Grade II-listed building dating to 1859, blends historic charm with practical amenities. The station features ticket machines, a small café, and free Wi-Fi. Taxis and local buses (Routes 5 and X5) wait outside, connecting travellers to the city center, Stonehenge, and nearby villages. Paid parking is available for drivers (£8–£12 per day), and cyclists will find secure bike racks. The station is a 15-minute walk from Salisbury Cathedral, with clear signage guiding visitors through the city’s medieval streets.

Salisbury is famed for its 13th-century cathedral, which houses the best-preserved original Magna Carta. The cathedral’s spire—the tallest in Britain—dominates the skyline, while the surrounding Close offers tranquil gardens and historic buildings. A short walk leads to the Market Square, where traditional stalls sell local produce and crafts every Tuesday and Saturday.

History buffs can visit Old Sarum, the Iron Age hill fort that predates the city, or take the Stonehenge Tour Bus (Route 333) from the station to the iconic stone circle, a 35-minute ride away. For nature enthusiasts, the New Forest National Park lies 40 minutes south by car, offering hiking, cycling, and wild pony sightings.

The Waterloo-to-Salisbury route is ideal for day trips or longer stays. To avoid crowds at Stonehenge, arrive early or book timed tickets in advance. Salisbury’s compact city center is easily navigable on foot, but comfortable shoes are recommended for exploring cobbled streets. For a unique perspective, consider combining your train journey with a bike rental to cycle along the River Avon or the Salisbury Plain. With its blend of history, culture, and natural beauty, this journey promises a rewarding escape from London’s hustle.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.