Travel in the UK
The UK has a good public transport system, so it is easy to visit other towns and cities during your stay. From Southampton, you can travel by train, coach, bus or ferry. It is often cheaper if you book early and travel at quieter times.
Lewis School also has a Days Out Guide in the Student Zone with ideas for trips.
Trains
Trains are often the fastest way to travel. You can check times and prices on National Rail or train company websites:
https://www.nationalrail.co.uk
Common ticket types include:
- Advance – usually cheaper, but only for one booked train
- Off-Peak – for quieter travel times
- Anytime – more flexible, but often more expensive
If you travel often, a Railcard may help you save money. Many Railcards give 1/3 off train fares.
Examples include:
- 16–25 Railcard
- 26–30 Railcard
- Network Railcard (for south-east England)
- Two Together Railcard
More information:
https://www.railcard.co.uk
Coaches
Coaches are usually cheaper than trains, but they can take longer.
Two popular companies for travel between cities and airports are:
- National Express
https://www.nationalexpress.com - Megabus
https://www.megabus.com
Booking early can help you get a lower price.
Local Buses
In Southampton, the main bus companies are:
- Bluestar
https://www.bluestarbus.co.uk - Unilink
https://www.unilinkbus.co.uk
You can use their apps or websites to check routes, times and ticket prices.
Ferries
A popular ferry trip from Southampton is to the Isle of Wight.
Red Funnel runs services between Southampton and the island:
https://www.redfunnel.co.uk
- The Red Jet fast ferry takes foot passengers and takes about 28 minutes.
- The vehicle ferry takes about 1 hour and carries cars, bicycles and foot passengers, and is better for enjoying the view.
Popular Trips from Southampton
See our Days Out Guide for more information.
You can also check:
https://visitsouthampton.co.uk
https://www.visit-hampshire.co.uk
0–1 hour from Southampton
- Winchester – historic city
- Bournemouth – seaside town
- Salisbury – historic city
- Portsmouth – naval city
- New Forest – national park
- Isle of Wight – island popular with tourists
1–2 hours from Southampton
- London
- Bath – historic city
- Oxford – historic university city
- Brighton – seaside city
Booking Accommodation
If you want to stay overnight, book early, especially in summer and at weekends.
Check:
- location
- price
- cancellation rules
- recent reviews
- extra costs
You can compare hotels, hostels, guest houses and holiday rentals on websites such as:
https://www.booking.com
https://www.airbnb.com
Before You Travel
- Check the last train or coach home
- Book early for cheaper tickets
- Travel off-peak if possible
- Keep your ticket until the end of your journey
- Ask Reception if you need help
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