Traveling from London to Brighton is one of the most popular journeys in the UK. Whether you’re planning a relaxing weekend by the sea, a day trip to enjoy Brighton Pier, or heading for business, you’ll need to decide how to get there.
Two of the most common options are taking the train or booking a taxi. Both have their advantages: the train is quick and frequent, while a taxi provides comfort, privacy, and door-to-door convenience. But which route really fits your trip?
In this guide, we compare London to Brighton by train vs taxi across key factors: cost, comfort, travel time, flexibility, and convenience. By the end, you’ll know exactly which option is right for your journey.
Taking the Train from London to Brighton
Travel Time
- Average journey time: 1 hour – 1 hour 15 minutes
- Fastest route: London Victoria or London Bridge to Brighton (direct services available)
Trains to Brighton are frequent, running every 15–20 minutes during peak times. For many, this makes rail the go-to option for speed and availability.
Cost
- Off-peak single ticket: around £12–£20
- Peak-time single ticket: £25–£35
- Return ticket: £25–£45 depending on time of day
Train fares vary greatly depending on when you travel. Booking in advance usually helps save money, but for last-minute trips, costs can rise quickly.
Comfort & Facilities
Trains are fairly comfortable with free Wi-Fi on most routes, luggage racks, and quiet carriages. However, during peak hours, they can get overcrowded. Finding a seat isn’t guaranteed unless you book first class.
Limitations
- Requires traveling to/from a London station (Victoria, Bridge, Blackfriars, or St Pancras).
- No door-to-door service, meaning you’ll still need a bus, tube, or taxi in London and Brighton.
- Limited space for heavy luggage.
Taking a Taxi from London to Brighton
Travel Time
- Average journey time: 1 hour 30 minutes – 2 hours (traffic dependent)
A taxi journey is slightly longer than the train, but you avoid transfers and connections.
Cost
- Fixed fare (private taxi): usually £120–£160 one way from Central London
- Airport transfer (e.g., Gatwick to Brighton): around £60–£90
Although more expensive than a train ticket, taxis are ideal for groups, families, or those carrying heavy luggage. When split between 3–4 passengers, a taxi can actually become cost-effective.
Comfort & Convenience
- Door-to-door pick-up and drop-off
- Private vehicle (choose standard, executive, or luxury)
- Ample luggage space — ideal if you’re traveling with suitcases or equipment
- No changes, queues, or waiting around
Flexibility
A taxi can pick you up at any time that suits you, unlike fixed train timetables. This makes it a strong option for early morning departures, late-night returns, or when traveling directly from airports.
Side-by-Side Comparison: Train vs Taxi
| Factor | Train | Taxi |
| Travel Time | 1h–1h15 direct | 1h30–2h (traffic dependent) |
| Cost | £12–£45 (per person) | £120–£160 (per trip) |
| Convenience | Requires getting to/from stations | Door-to-door service |
| Comfort | Public, may be crowded | Private, spacious, relaxing |
| Flexibility | Fixed schedules | Travel any time |
| Best For | Solo or budget travelers | Families, groups, business trips |
When the Train is the Better Option
- You’re traveling solo and want the cheapest option.
- You’re heading to/from central London stations and staying near Brighton’s city centre.
- You don’t mind carrying luggage through stations.
When a Taxi is the Better Option
- You’re traveling with family, kids, or elderly passengers.
- You have heavy luggage or equipment.
- You’re flying into London and need a direct transfer from Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, or Luton to Brighton.
- You value privacy, comfort, and a stress-free journey.
London Airports to Brighton: A Quick Note
Many travellers heading to Brighton start their journey from one of London’s airports. Here’s how long a taxi transfer usually takes:
- Heathrow to Brighton taxi: 1h 45m – 2h
- Gatwick to Brighton taxi: 40–50 minutes
- Stansted to Brighton taxi: 2h 15m – 2h 30m
- Luton to Brighton taxi: 2h – 2h 15m
Trains from airports often require multiple connections, making taxis a far more convenient choice for international visitors.
Final Thoughts: Train vs Taxi to Brighton
If you’re after speed and budget travel, the train is hard to beat — especially for solo trips or day visits. But if you want comfort, flexibility, and a seamless door-to-door experience, a taxi is the smarter choice.
For families, groups, and airport transfers, taxis often provide better overall value once you factor in convenience, luggage, and stress-free travel.
Whether you’re heading directly from Central London or need a transfer straight after landing, booking a Gatwick Airport taxi to Brighton can often be the most practical and comfortable option.