St Andrews
St Andrews
Portsmouth
Portsmouth
Train

St Andrews to Portsmouth

Updated: 31 May 2026

Traveling from St Andrews to Portsmouth involves a long journey south. You will travel via Leuchars to London, then take a Southern or South Western Railway train to Portsmouth Harbour. The total distance is roughly 780 km.

Total Distance: 780 km driving distance, 640 km air distance.
Fastest Way
Train via London, taking approximately 9 hours.
Cheapest Way
Booking Advance tickets on LNER and Southern websites.
Compare St Andrews to Portsmouth Routes
Train
Connecting
Duration
9 hours
Avg Price
100-280 GBP
Operator
LNER and Southern
Route
Leuchars to London Kings Cross, then London Victoria to Portsmouth Harbour.

Portsmouth Harbour station is right next to the ferry terminal.

Travel Tips
  • Station Choice
    Ensure you book to Portsmouth Harbour for the best access to attractions.
  • London Transfer
    Use the Victoria Line on the Underground to get from Kings Cross to Victoria.
  • Seat Reservation
    Always reserve a seat on the long-haul LNER leg.
  • Tickets
    Keep your digital tickets ready on your phone for ticket barriers.
  • Refreshments
    The buffet car on LNER trains offers hot meals.
Safety Tips
  • Crowds
    Be aware of pickpockets in busy London stations.
  • Night Travel
    Avoid walking through isolated areas near the docks after dark.
  • Assistance
    Use the Help points at stations if you feel unsafe.
  • Valuables
    Keep your wallet and phone in zipped pockets.
People Also Ask
  • Is Portsmouth near Southampton?
    Yes, they are about 30 minutes apart by train.
  • Can I drive?
    Yes, but it takes over 10 hours via the M6 and M40.
  • Is there a direct bus?
    No, you would need multiple changes.
  • What is the best station?
    Portsmouth Harbour is the most central.
  • Are trains reliable?
    Generally yes, but check for engineering works on weekends.
Quick Info
  • From St Andrews, Scotland, United Kingdom
  • To Portsmouth, Hampshire, United Kingdom
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

June to August for the best weather to explore the Portsmouth Historic Dockyard.

Things to Do in Portsmouth
1
Historic Dockyard
Visit the HMS Victory and the Mary Rose Museum. It is a world-class naval heritage site.
2
Spinnaker Tower
Ascend the tower for panoramic views of the Solent. It stands 170 meters tall.
3
Gunwharf Quays
Shop at the premium outlet stores located by the water. It features many restaurants.
4
Southsea Castle
Explore the fortress built by Henry VIII. It offers great coastal walks.
Tags
St Andrews to Portsmouth train to Portsmouth driving to Portsmouth Scotland to Hampshire travel from St Andrews UK rail travel Portsmouth transport long distance travel UK