Oshawa
Oshawa
London
London
Train Driving

Oshawa to London

Updated: 28 May 2026

The trip from Oshawa to London, Ontario, covers roughly 220 kilometers. Driving via Highway 401 West is the most direct route, usually taking about 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic through the Greater Toronto Area. Alternatively, you can take a VIA Rail train, which requires a transfer at Union Station in Toronto. London is known as the Forest City and serves as a major hub in Southwestern Ontario. This route is a common path for both business and leisure travelers.

Total Distance: Driving distance is 220 km; straight-line air distance is 195 km.
Fastest Way
Driving, taking approximately 2.5 hours during off-peak traffic times.
Cheapest Way
Driving, especially if traveling with passengers to split fuel costs.
Compare Oshawa to London Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 3 hours 30 mins 2 hours 30 mins
Avg Price $50 - $100 CAD $40 - $50 in fuel
Operator VIA Rail Personal Vehicle
Route Train to Union Station, transfer to London-bound train. Highway 401 West all the way to London.
Tip VIA Rail offers free Wi-Fi, making it a productive way to travel. The 401 near Milton and Kitchener can be very congested; plan accordingly.
Travel Tips
  • 401 Traffic
    Check traffic reports for the 401 near Mississauga and Milton before leaving.
  • VIA Rail Booking
    Book your train tickets online to take advantage of discounted 'Escape' fares.
  • London Transit
    London Transit Commission (LTC) buses provide reliable service throughout the city.
  • Parking
    Downtown London has several parking garages; check rates before you arrive.
  • Campus Visits
    If visiting Western University, check their website for visitor parking permits.
Safety Tips
  • Highway Fatigue
    The 401 is a long, monotonous drive; take breaks at service centers like the ones in Woodstock.
  • Weather
    Southwestern Ontario can experience heavy snow squalls in winter; check road conditions.
  • Personal Safety
    Stick to well-lit areas when walking downtown at night.
  • Vehicle Check
    Ensure your car is in good condition before embarking on this 200+ km drive.
People Also Ask
  • Is there a direct train from Oshawa to London?
    No, you must transfer at Union Station in Toronto.
  • How long does it take to drive to London?
    It takes about 2.5 to 3 hours depending on traffic.
  • What is the best way to get to London from Oshawa?
    Driving is the most direct, while the train is more comfortable.
  • Are there buses to London?
    Yes, companies like FlixBus or Megabus operate routes from Toronto to London.
  • Is London a good place to visit?
    Yes, it offers a mix of urban amenities, parks, and cultural sites.
Quick Info
  • From Oshawa, Ontario, Canada
  • To London, Ontario, Canada
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

June for the various festivals or September for the Western University campus atmosphere.

Things to Do in London
1
Victoria Park
Visit the heart of downtown London. It hosts many festivals and is a beautiful spot for a picnic.
2
Museum London
Discover regional art and history at this museum located at the forks of the Thames River.
3
Eldon House
Step back in time at London's oldest residence, which offers a look at 19th-century life.
4
Storybook Gardens
A perfect destination for families, featuring themed play areas based on classic children's stories.
Tags
Oshawa to London Ontario driving to London Ontario VIA Rail Oshawa to London Highway 401 travel London Ontario travel Oshawa to London commute Forest City travel Ontario road trip