Rail Travel Portsmouth

Portsmouth's train services provide a vital link between the city and key destinations across the UK. Whether you're commuting for work, planning a day trip, or exploring the broader region, Portsmouth's well connected railway network offers convenient and frequent travel options. With direct routes to major cities like London, Brighton, and Southampton, as well as local services to nearby towns and coastal areas, the city's rail infrastructure ensures easy access for both residents and visitors. This page provides an overview of the rail services available in Portsmouth, including station information, routes, and travel tips to help you make the most of your journey.

Please note: This site has no association with any of the transport operators or organisations shown. Any information shown will require further confirmation before it is used for travel.

National Rail Enquiries

National Rail Enquiries is the official source of information for all passenger rail services in Great Britain. It provides comprehensive details about train times, routes, ticket prices, service disruptions, and real-time updates for all train operating companies across the country. The service is designed to help travelers plan their journeys by offering easy access to timetables, fare options, station facilities, and customer service contacts. Available online, via mobile apps, and through a phone service, National Rail Enquiries ensures that passengers have the latest information to make informed travel decisions.

Southern Rail

Southern Rail, part of Govia Thameslink Railway, operates services connecting Portsmouth with various destinations, including London Victoria, Brighton, and other locations along the south coast of England. The primary stations in Portsmouth served by Southern Rail are Portsmouth & Southsea and Portsmouth Harbour. These services provide convenient options for both local and longer-distance travel, making Southern Rail an important part of the city's rail network.

South Western Railway

South Western Railway operates trains connecting Portsmouth with London Waterloo, among other destinations. The primary stations in Portsmouth served by South Western Railway are Portsmouth & Southsea, Portsmouth Harbour, and Fratton. This service offers frequent and direct routes, particularly to and from London, making it a key operator for travel between Portsmouth and other parts of the UK.

Great Western Railway

Great Western Railway (GWR), formerly known as Great Western Rail, is a major train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates rail services primarily in the South West of England and South Wales. The company's network includes routes connecting London Paddington with key cities such as Bristol, Exeter, Plymouth, and Cardiff.

Portsmouth Train services

Portsmouth Train Stations

Listed below are all four train stations located on Portsea Island, off of the island there is also Cosham Station, Bedhampton Station and Havant Station serving the local community.

Portsmouth Harbour Station (PMH)

Portsmouth Harbour station is a key railway hub located in Portsmouth, Hampshire. Positioned close to the waterfront and historic dockyard, the station is a major gateway for both commuters and visitors. It is well-known for its strategic location, providing convenient access to ferry services, naval attractions, and the vibrant city centre.
Right underneath the Spinnaker Tower on the edge of Portsmouth Harbour, ideal for Portsmouth Historic Dockyard, Gunwharf Quays and connections to the Wightlink Isle of Wight passenger ferry service and the Gosport Ferry.

  • Address: The Hard, Portsmouth, Hants, PO1 3EB
  • Just a short walk to bus stops, taxi ranks, Gosport Ferry and the IOW passenger ferry.

Portsmouth and Southsea Station (PMS)

Portsmouth & Southsea station is the main railway station located in the heart of Portsmouth, Hampshire. This station serves as one of the main transport hubs for the city, offering key connections to various destinations. Close to Commercial Road shopping area, Portsmouth Guildhall, Civic Offices and the Law Courts.
A shuttle bus operated by Hovertravel, connects with the Hovercraft service to Ryde on the Isle of Wight, leaves from just outside the station.

  • Address: Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hants, PO1 1EQ
  • Best for Portsmouth City Centre, Portsmouth Guildhall and the New Theatre Royal.

Fratton Station (FTN)

Fratton station is served by South Western Railway, offering frequent services to destinations such as London Waterloo, Southampton, and other regional locations. The station also connects with Portsmouth’s other rail services, making it a convenient option for local travel and commuting.
This is the closest station to Fratton Park, home of Portsmouth Football Club, which is a short walk from the station along Goldsmith Avenue.

  • Selbourne Terrace, Portsmouth, PO1 5AW
  • Closest station to Fratton Park.
  • Best for central Southsea and Albert Road.

Hilsea Halt (HLS)

Serving the northern end of Portsea Island, Hilsea Halt railway station is close to the Hilsea industrial estates around Anchorage Road and Quartermaine Road.

  • Norway Road, Portsmouth, PO3 5FT