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Taking the train from Southend to Margate in 3 hours 24 minutes
Thinking about taking the train from Southend to Margate? We've got you covered.
It usually takes around 3 hours 33 minutes to travel the 31 miles (49 km) from Southend to Margate by train, although you can get there in as little as 3 hours 24 minutes on the fastest services. You'll normally find around 12 trains per day running on this route. You'll need to make 4 changes along the way as there aren't any direct services on this line. You're likely to be travelling with Greater Anglia, Southeastern or Thameslink to Margate. As the main train operators on this route, all offer plenty of space for luggage and comfortable seating as standard.
Book train tickets from Southend to Margate in advance instead of buying them on the day and you'll snap up the cheapest fares. We'll always highlight the cheapest prices in our Journey Planner, for example when you travel at Off-Peak times or use a Railcard.
If you're feeling ready to book, start looking for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information on the journey to Margate by train, or check our timetable above to view live train times.
Journey details
Want to know more about your journey from Southend to Margate? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.
How long does the train from Southend to Margate take?
The average journey time by train between Southend and Margate is 3 hours and 33 minutes, with around 12 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.
What's the fastest journey time between Southend and Margate by train?
The fastest journey time by train from Southend to Margate is 3 hours and 24 minutes.
Is there a direct train from Southend to Margate?
No, there are no direct train services from Southend to Margate. Travelling from Southend to Margate by train will require a minimum of 4 changes.
What time does the first train from Southend to Margate leave?
The first train from Southend to Margate leaves at 09:32. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.
What time does the last train from Southend to Margate leave?
The last train from Southend to Margate leaves at 20:35. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.
What's the distance between Southend and Margate by train?
Trains travelling from Southend to Margate cover a distance of around 31 miles (49 km) during the journey.
Looking for more information?
If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Margate to Southend.
Cheap train tickets from Southend to Margate
Book in advance
Look out for Advance tickets – they usually come out up to 12 weeks before the departure date and can be cheaper than buying on the day. If you’re here a tad early, sign up for our Advance ticket alert today to get notified when your tickets are released.
Consider a Season Ticket
If you catch this train more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly and weekly options available, find out if a season ticket for Southend to Margate is right for you.
Use your Railcard
National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel a few times or more in a year. Find out how you can save with a National Railcard here.
Split your tickets
Download our app to find split tickets — courtesy of SplitSave, our handy feature which 'splits' your train tickets where possible to find you a better deal. Learn more about the clever tech behind split tickets, and how to spot SplitSave discounts in our app.
For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.