When the train isn't the answer
Tolworth station runs direct to London Waterloo, and Surbiton has fast trains that do the trip in under twenty minutes. For a commuter with a laptop bag, the train usually wins. But plenty of our passengers still book a car to or from Waterloo, and it's usually for one of these reasons:
- Luggage. You're connecting to a long-distance train or coming home from holiday with suitcases.
- Late arrivals. You're getting in after the trains to Tolworth have thinned out, or you'd rather not walk home from the station at night.
- Mobility. Stairs, crowds and platform changes are difficult.
- Groups. For three or four people, a car can compare well with separate train tickets.
About Waterloo
Waterloo is one of the busiest railway stations in Britain and the London terminus for South Western Railway, with trains to south-west London, Surrey, Hampshire and Dorset. It sits on the South Bank, a short walk from the London Eye, the Southbank Centre and the Old Vic. We're often booked to collect passengers from Waterloo after an evening at a show or on the river, as well as off trains.
Drive times and the Congestion Charge
The drive is about 12 miles and usually takes 40 to 60 minutes, with weekday rush hours the slowest. Waterloo is inside central London's Congestion Charge zone, so ask us how this affects your fare when you book.
Meeting you at Waterloo
Waterloo is big and has several exits. Tell us which side of the station suits you, or ask our team to agree a meeting point. Give us your train time and we'll be there when you arrive.
Written and checked by the Tolworth Cars team. Last updated 22 September 2026.