Currently the UK’s only domestic high-speed train service, Javelin trains were introduced by Southeastern in 2009, cutting journey times drastically between Kent and central London.
Want to find out more about Javelin trains? Our guide to Southeastern’s high-speed service includes where they can take you, how to buy tickets (including how to save money) and some of the most popular routes taken on Javelin trains. Read on to find out more.
Javelin trains
Able to travel at speeds of up to 140 mph, these high-speed trains played a major part in people transport during the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic games. The Javelin Shuttle Service (from which the nickname Javelin stuck) ferried spectators from the Olympic Park in Stratford into central London. Be sure to look out for the name on the side of the train before you board, as many are named after Olympic athletes.
Since then, Javelin trains have offered high-speed services into London from places like Margate, Dover Priory and Whitstable and are especially popular with commuters around those areas.
Southeastern high-speed map
Want to know where Javelin trains can take you? We’ve highlighted the destinations you can travel to with Southeastern high-speed services in the map below.
Javelin train tickets
Tickets for Southeastern’s high-speed service can be a little higher than their normal services, but well worth it for the extra speed. You’re able to travel on Javelin trains if your ticket includes the following routes.
Any Permitted – for train travel beyond Southeastern routes with other UK train companies.
Update + High Speed – an upgrade of an existing valid ticket, like season tickets, for Southeastern routes to and from London.
Plus High Speed – for regular tickets.
If you’re travelling on a Javelin train between London St Pancras International and Stratford International, you can also tap in using your Oyster or contactless card.
How to book cheap Javelin train tickets
As we mentioned, it can cost a little extra to travel on Javelin trains, but there are still ways to save and enjoy speedy train times.
Railcard discounts still apply to Southeastern’s high-speed train journeys, meaning you can get 1/3 off the ticket price. All the major Railcards can be used on Javelin trains, including 16-25, Family & Friends, Network Railcard, and Two Together.
If you’re travelling in a group of three to nine people, you can also use GroupSave discounts to save up to 34% on the price of your Javelin train ticket.
Want to know more about saving money on train travel? Check out our cheap train tickets page.
Digital tickets now available on Southeastern Javelin trains
Wave goodbye to station queues and lost tickets, and say hello to tickets on your phone.
Enjoy smoother Southeastern train journeys – go straight to the train when you use tickets on your phone. Digital tickets live on your Trainline app and are now available on most Southeastern journeys.
Popular destinations
In need of some inspiration? Whether you’re heading into London or venturing to the seaside for the day, Javelin high-speed trains travel to lots of must-visit destinations in the capital and Kent. Browse our list of popular places to visit below, or check out our Southeastern train times page for journey details.
Save up to 1/3 on eligible journeys with a Railcard
Travelling with Southeastern a few times a year? Get a Railcard and you'll save up to 1/3 on eligible journeys. Click on one of the Railcard types below to see the various eligibility requirements.
Frequently asked questions
Can I take my bike onboard the Javelin?
Yes. You’re able to take bikes onboard Off-Peak Javelin train services.
Can I travel First Class on Javelin trains?
Unfortunately, there’s no First Class seating on Javelin trains. However, those with First Class tickets may be able to travel on these high-speed trains at no additional cost.