Get down to the coast in only around 1 hour and 25 minutes by rail and enjoy the sea and stunning chalk cliffs. Southern services run from London Victoria to Eastbourne, allowing you to take in views of the capital and suburbs from your carriage window.
Southern runs commuter services between South London, East and West Sussex and its London terminals (London Bridge and London Victoria). Its regional trains serve parts of Kent, Hampshire and Surrey. Routes have stops in Epsom, Worthing and Portsmouth.
Departing from London Victoria
Named after the nearby Victoria Street, London Victoria station provides a mixture of metro and long-distance rail services. Trains run by Southern, Southeastern, and Gatwick Express travel to destinations like Dorking, Gatwick Airport, and Redhill.
The station is also connected to the London Underground, served by the Circle, District, and Victoria lines. Additionally, a bus station is located in the forecourt, and Victoria coach station, offering coaches to other places in the UK and Europe, is just a few minutes away on foot.
Main stops
Some of the stops on the London Victoria to Eastbourne train are Clapham Junction, East Croydon, Gatwick Airport, Haywards Heath and Lewes. Stops differ according to the time, operator and route.
Arriving at Eastbourne
Trains arrive at Eastbourne Station, located on the east coast and managed by Southern Railway Company. Southern operates all trains serving the station, with routes to Hastings, Ashford International, Brighton, and other destinations. A taxi rank is conveniently located by the west side entrance, and several bus routes stop nearby, providing easy access to the surrounding area.
Eastbourne is surrounded by stunning Victorian buildings (including the iconic pier), coastal landmarks and arts and culture. The beautiful palm-lined promenade stretches over three miles (five kilometres). Home to Beachy Head, the nation’s highest chalk cliffs, there is no shortage of picturesque walks, from the South Downs to Seven Sisters. For vibrant independent boutiques and cafés, look no further than Little Chelsea. A more tranquil spot for a picnic is the Italian Gardens, just yards from Holywell Beach.
Southern train classes
- Standard Class: Travelling in Standard Class gives you access to free WiFi. Carriages include comfortable seats. Most trains have power sockets at window seats. Book in advance to buy cheap train tickets.
- First Class: Southern’s First Class coaches are only available on certain routes. London to Eastbourne First Class travel offers free WiFi, spaced-out seating in a quieter carriage.
Southern train travel advice
- Luggage: All pieces of luggage must be stowed away in the luggage racks or overhead shelves.
- Bicycles: There’s no need to pre-book space for non-folding bikes, but restrictions may apply during peak-time services. E-scooters, e-skateboards and hoverboards aren’t permitted on any train.
- Children: Kids under 5 travel free, those aged 5–15 receive a 50% discount on most tickets, and up to four can travel for £2 each during off-peak times with an adult.
- Pets: Up to two domestic pets can board when kept off seats and on a lead or in a basket.
- Passenger Assist: Assisting with purchasing tickets and other necessary items for the journey, providing ramps or alternative transportation, and helping with luggage handling, boarding, and transfer services.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.