Trains from Richmond to London Waterloo from £6.70

The train ride from Richmond to London Waterloo captures the harmony between suburban serenity and metropolitan dynamism. Revered as one of London’s most scenic commuter journeys, this line effortlessly links Richmond’s leafy riverside charm to the capital’s energetic centre. Serving everyone from weekday commuters to weekend wanderers heading for Richmond Park or Kew Gardens, this route is both practical and picturesque. Whether you're escaping into nature or heading to the city’s heartbeat, this 20-minute ride offers a scenic transition from tranquility to tempo.

Planning your journey from Richmond to London Waterloo

The direct train from Richmond to Waterloo covers a distance of approximately 9 miles, operated exclusively by South Western Railway. During peak periods, trains depart every 179, minimising wait times for busy travellers. The average travel time ranges from 25 to 40 minutes, though the quickest services make the journey in just 18m. Early risers can catch the first departure around 5:30 AM, while night owls will find the last train leaves shortly after midnight. For the most accurate timings, head over to our Live Departure and Arrival Page.

A standard one-way ticket costs about £7.00, but booking in advance via platforms like Trip.com can unlock significant savings. Don’t forget: online bookings and Railcard discounts are your best bets for securing value-friendly fares.

Richmond Station essentials

Richmond Station blends Victorian elegance with commuter convenience. Its classic red-brick façade and arched glass canopy set the tone for a station that mixes heritage with practicality. Facilities include a Caffè Nero, accessible toilets, and clear digital screens for train updates. Although more compact than major terminals like Waterloo, it maintains a friendly, well-serviced atmosphere.

Just outside, regular bus routes including the 65 (towards Kew Gardens) and 190 (towards West Brompton) offer onward connections. For a scenic change of pace, the Uber Boat by Thames Clippers runs seasonal river services to central London. Cyclists can take advantage of nearby bike hire options—perfect for exploring Richmond’s leafy parks.

From shopping on George Street—home to both independent boutiques and high-street names like Jigsaw—to sipping riverside pints at The White Cross, Richmond caters to a wide range of tastes. Don’t miss Petersham Nurseries, a quirky café nestled in a greenhouse, ideal for a leisurely lunch surrounded by blooms.

The standout local treasure is Richmond Park, a vast 2,500-acre green space where wild deer roam freely. History enthusiasts will enjoy a visit to Ham House, a Stuart-era mansion brimming with period charm, while theatre-goers can catch a performance at the Edwardian Richmond Theatre. A stroll along the Thames Path reveals elegant Georgian houses, and just a 15-minute bus ride away lies the iconic Kew Gardens, complete with glasshouses, art installations, and treetop walks.

Onboard the journey from Richmond to Waterloo

South Western Railway runs this route with its modern fleet of Class 707 trains, tailored to the needs of suburban passengers. These carriages offer bright interiors, USB charging points, overhead luggage space, and comfortable 2x2 seating. While there’s no First Class, Standard Class delivers a smooth and pleasant ride—ideal for a short hop into the city.

The route offers a snapshot of London’s shifting landscape. Shortly after leaving Richmond, you’ll glide past leafy avenues and catch glimpses of Richmond Park’s open fields and free-roaming deer. As the train nears central London, the skyline transforms: Vauxhall’s striking architecture and the refurbished Battersea Power Station rise into view. A particular highlight is Barnes Bridge, where the train crosses the Thames alongside the tranquil wetlands of the London Wetland Centre.

Arriving at London Waterloo Station

London Waterloo isn’t just a station—it’s a landmark in its own right. As the UK’s busiest rail terminal, it buzzes with movement and energy, welcoming millions of passengers each year. Once the departure point for the Eurostar, it now stands as a gateway to both London and the wider South East. Its sweeping concourse, framed by a modern glass canopy, is alive with commuters, visitors, and street performers alike.

Thanks to its central location, Waterloo offers seamless links to four Underground lines (Bakerloo, Jubilee, Northern, and Waterloo & City) and multiple bus services. In just a few minutes’ walk, you can be taking in the sights of the South Bank, with highlights including the London Eye, the National Theatre, and the Royal Festival Hall.

Waterloo is equipped for convenience: free Wi-Fi, luggage storage, and accessible facilities make it easy to navigate, whether you're travelling light or with luggage. Step-free access, tactile paths, and staff assistance ensure smooth travel for all.

The Richmond to Waterloo route is more than a point-to-point journey—it’s a condensed tour of London’s contrasts. In under half an hour, it whisks passengers from leafy parks and historic townhouses to the beating heart of the city. Whether you’re commuting, sightseeing, or simply enjoying the ride, this route blends efficiency with scenic appeal. Book ahead, grab your Railcard, and let Trip.com help you unlock one of London’s most rewarding short rail trips.

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