25/11/2025
Embarking on a journey from the vibrant coastal town of Worthing to the picturesque riverside and seaside resort of Littlehampton is a popular route for commuters, day-trippers, and tourists alike. Both destinations offer unique charms, from Worthing’s bustling pier and extensive promenade to Littlehampton’s award-winning beaches and riverside attractions. While the distance between these two West Sussex gems is relatively short, understanding the best transport options can significantly enhance your travel experience, ensuring a smooth and stress-free trip. Whether you prioritise speed, affordability, or a scenic route, this comprehensive guide will detail everything you need to know to navigate your way from Worthing to Littlehampton with ease.
The primary modes of public transport connecting Worthing and Littlehampton are train and bus services, each offering distinct advantages. The choice often comes down to a balance between journey time, cost, and personal preference for comfort or scenery. We’ll delve into the specifics of each option, providing practical advice to help you make an informed decision for your next excursion.
The Swift Rail Connection: Travel by Train
For many, the train is the preferred method of travel between Worthing and Littlehampton, primarily due to its speed and efficiency. Operated by Southern, the rail service on this route is both frequent and reliable, making it an excellent choice for those on a tight schedule or simply wishing to reach their destination quickly.
The journey itself is remarkably brief, typically taking around 22 minutes from platform to platform. This makes it an ideal option for daily commuters or anyone looking to maximise their time enjoying the attractions at either end of the line. Trains run frequently, usually every 30 minutes throughout the day, ensuring that you rarely have a long wait at the station. This high frequency contributes significantly to the overall convenience of rail travel on this route.
Tickets for the train journey typically cost between £5 and £8, depending on the time of day you travel and whether you purchase an Anytime, Off-Peak, or Super Off-Peak fare. Buying tickets in advance, especially for return journeys, can sometimes offer slight savings, although for such a short route, the difference might be minimal. Tickets can be purchased at Worthing station from ticket machines or the ticket office, or online via the Southern Rail website or other reputable rail ticket platforms.
Worthing railway station is centrally located, easily accessible from most parts of the town. Upon arrival in Littlehampton, the station is also conveniently situated within walking distance of the town centre, the River Arun, and the main beach areas, making onward travel to your final destination straightforward. The trains themselves offer a comfortable journey, with seating available and often good views of the Sussex countryside as you travel along the coast.
The Scenic & Cost-Effective Bus Route: Line 701
An excellent alternative to the train, particularly for those who prioritise affordability or prefer a more leisurely journey, is the bus service. The Line 701 bus offers a direct route between Worthing and Littlehampton, presenting a different perspective of the local area.
The bus journey typically takes approximately 30 minutes, which is only slightly longer than the train, making it a very competitive option time-wise, especially when considering the fare. The primary advantage of the bus is its cost-effectiveness, with tickets usually priced between £2 and £3. This makes it a significantly cheaper alternative to the train, an important consideration for budget-conscious travellers or larger groups.
While the train offers speed, the bus provides a more intimate view of the local landscape and passes through various smaller communities and residential areas between the two towns. This can be appealing for those who enjoy observing local life or prefer not to be confined to a train carriage. Bus stops are generally more dispersed than train stations, offering greater flexibility for pick-up and drop-off points within Worthing and Littlehampton, potentially bringing you closer to your specific destination without further transfers.
Similar to train tickets, bus fares can be paid directly to the driver upon boarding, usually with cash or contactless payment methods. For frequent travellers, exploring day tickets or weekly passes might offer additional savings. Services are generally regular throughout the day, though it's always advisable to check the latest timetables, especially for evening or weekend travel, as frequencies may vary.
Comparing Your Travel Choices: Train vs. Bus
To help you make the best decision for your journey, let's look at a direct comparison of the train and bus options:
| Feature | Train (Southern) | Bus (Line 701) |
|---|---|---|
| Journey Time | Approx. 22 minutes | Approx. 30 minutes |
| Cost (Approx.) | £5 - £8 | £2 - £3 |
| Frequency | Every 30 minutes | Regular (check timetable for specifics) |
| Comfort | Generally more spacious, dedicated seating | Standard bus seating, can be affected by traffic |
| Scenery | Coastal glimpses, open fields | Closer views of local towns and communities |
| Accessibility | Stations have ramps/lifts, accessible carriages | Wheelchair accessible buses, kerbside stops |
| Traffic Impact | Minimal impact | Can be affected by road traffic |
Additional Travel Tips and Considerations
When planning your journey from Worthing to Littlehampton, a few extra tips can make your trip even smoother:
- Peak vs. Off-Peak: If you're travelling by train, be aware that fares are often higher during peak commuting hours (typically before 09:30 and between 16:00-19:00 on weekdays). Travelling off-peak can lead to cheaper tickets.
- Return vs. Single: For both train and bus, purchasing a return ticket is almost always more economical than buying two single tickets for the same day.
- Checking Live Information: Before you set off, it's always a good idea to check live departure boards for trains (via National Rail Enquiries or the Southern app) or bus tracking apps/websites for the 701 route. This will keep you informed of any potential delays or service changes.
- Weekend and Bank Holiday Services: Frequencies for both trains and buses can differ on weekends and bank holidays. Plan accordingly by checking specific timetables for those days.
- Luggage: Both trains and buses accommodate luggage, but if you're travelling with very large items, the train might offer slightly more dedicated space, though for a short journey, this is rarely an issue.
- Onward Travel in Littlehampton: Once you arrive in Littlehampton, both the train station and bus stops are well-connected to the town's main attractions. The beach, harbour, and town centre are all within easy walking distance. Local taxis are also available outside the station if needed.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Here are some common questions travellers have about getting from Worthing to Littlehampton:
Is it cheaper to buy train tickets in advance?
For this short route, advance purchase savings are often minimal compared to longer journeys. However, buying an Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak return ticket at the station or online before travel will generally be cheaper than an Anytime single ticket, especially during peak hours.
Are there direct services from Worthing to Littlehampton?
Yes, both the Southern train service and the Stagecoach Line 701 bus service are direct routes between Worthing and Littlehampton, meaning no changes are required.
What are the main stations/stops in Worthing and Littlehampton?
In Worthing, the main departure point for trains is Worthing Railway Station. For the bus, there are several stops along the main routes through Worthing town centre, but key ones include Worthing Pier and Worthing Station Road. In Littlehampton, the train arrives at Littlehampton Railway Station, and buses typically stop at Littlehampton Bus Station or various points along the High Street and Terminus Road.
Can I use contactless payment for my journey?
Yes, most Southern train services accept contactless payments at ticket gates or on board for single journeys. For the bus, contactless payment directly to the driver is widely accepted, making it very convenient.
Is the route scenic?
The train journey offers glimpses of the coast and passes through open countryside. The bus route, while not overtly scenic in the traditional sense, provides a closer look at the local towns and villages along the way, offering a more 'local life' perspective.
How often do services run on weekends?
Train services typically maintain a good frequency (often every 30-60 minutes) on weekends, though there might be slight variations. Bus services also run on weekends but may have reduced frequency compared to weekdays. Always check the latest timetables for specific weekend schedules.
Is it easy to get a taxi from Littlehampton station?
Yes, there is usually a taxi rank outside Littlehampton railway station, making it easy to catch a taxi for onward travel if your destination is not within walking distance or you have heavy luggage.
Conclusion
Travelling from Worthing to Littlehampton is a straightforward and convenient journey, whether you opt for the speed of the train or the affordability of the bus. The train, operated by Southern, is the fastest option at just 22 minutes, ideal for those prioritising time, with fares ranging from £5-£8. Alternatively, the Line 701 bus offers a budget-friendly choice, taking around 30 minutes and costing a mere £2-£3, providing a more local perspective of the journey. Both services are direct and frequent, ensuring a hassle-free trip. By considering your priorities – be it speed, cost, or comfort – you can easily select the perfect mode of transport to enjoy all that Littlehampton has to offer, from its delightful beaches to its charming riverside. Enjoy your journey!
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