- Must visit
Hopetown Darlington
Major railway museum on the original Stockton and Darlington Railway route. Exhibits, locomotives, and restored buildings explain Darlington's rail legacy.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cheltenham to Darlington
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cheltenham to Darlington among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $60. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $60, and a train costs an average of $196.
Distance: 182 miles (294 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$196 Average price | $60 Average price Cheapest | $64 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 25m Average total duration Fastest 3h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 25m Average total duration 9h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 56m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cheltenham to Darlington is a bus with an average price of $60 (€60).
This is compared to other travel options from Cheltenham to Darlington:
A bus is $137 (€137) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cheltenham to Darlington costing on average $196 (€196).
The fastest way to travel from Cheltenham to Darlington is by train with an average journey time of 3h 55m.
Other travel options to Darlington take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cheltenham and Darlington including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham to Darlington among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 1m sooner (3h 55m by train vs 3h 56m by car). Tickets start at around $196 (€196) compared to roughly $64 (€64) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Direct services run with Cross Country.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Cheltenham to Darlington train times
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Darlington trains for today, Friday, July 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 G01082 · G00718+ G80148 | Delayed 3:20 PM 4:12 PMCheltenham Spa (CNM) | 3h53 | 8:05 PM Darlington station (DAR) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cheltenham to Darlington by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cheltenham to Darlington
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cheltenham to Darlington run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $196 (€196) but you can travel from only $60 (€60) by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:08, the last at 20:12. The fastest train covers the 182 miles (294 km) distance in 3h 55m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $60 (€60)
Distance 182 miles (294 km) |
Average train duration 3h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $196 (€196) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 3h 55m |
First train 5:08 AM |
Last train 8:12 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 42 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $60 (€60)
Train companies: Cross Country from Cheltenham to Darlington trainsCross Country trains will get you between Cheltenham and Darlington from $60 (€60). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 13m
Cheapest Price
$251 (€251)
Cross Country frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Darlington
Things to do in Darlington
Discover the best of Darlington — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Darlington trip today.
- Recommended
MIMA School of Art Gallery
University arts venue nearby with contemporary exhibitions, installations, and events. A good choice for modern art in the wider Darlington area.
- Recommended
Piercebridge Roman Fort Museum
Roman fort and archaeology museum a short trip from Darlington. Finds, reconstructions, and river views make it a strong regional heritage visit.
- Recommended
High Row
Historic town centre street lined with shops and civic buildings. It is central to exploring Darlington's market character and Victorian urban fabric.
- Recommended
Market Place
Traditional covered market area with surrounding lanes and street life. It is ideal for soaking up local atmosphere in a compact historic setting.
- Recommended
South Park
Large town park with formal gardens, a café building, aviary area, and bandstand. It is one of Darlington's best-loved green spaces for a stroll.
Parmo
A Teesside takeaway classic: chicken in a creamy béchamel-style sauce with chips. It is strongly associated with nearby Middlesbrough and the wider area.
Pan Haggerty Broth
A rich North East beef and vegetable broth, slowly cooked with pearl barley or split peas. It is a traditional working-class staple in County Durham homes.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Pan Haggerty
Layered potatoes, onions and cheese baked until golden. A beloved North East comfort dish, often served in pubs and homes across Durham and Teesside.
The Old Yard Tapas Bar
Well-known traditional pub venue serving cask ales and hearty British favourites in a historic, characterful atmosphere.
Estabulo Rodizio Bar & Grill
Established town-centre restaurant known for polished British and European cooking in a smart yet relaxed setting.
Akbar The Great
Popular Indian restaurant with a strong local reputation for classic curries, attentive service and a comfortable modern dining room.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and trains are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis; cafes usually do not expect tips.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Darlington Station -> Darlington Town Centre
- Distance
- 1.3 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Arriva buses in Darlington. Buy tickets in the app for faster boarding.
- Most local bus tickets are operator-specific, so check your bus company before boarding. Darlington town centre is walkable from the rail station.
FAQs: Trains from Cheltenham to Darlington
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham to Darlington by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Darlington, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cheltenham to Darlington can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $196 (€196), while the average price is around $196 (€196).
The train from Cheltenham to Darlington takes 3h 55m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Cheltenham to Darlington is 182 miles (294 km).
The first train from Cheltenham to Darlington leaves at 5:08 AM.
The last train from Cheltenham to Darlington leaves at 8:12 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cheltenham to Darlington.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cheltenham to Darlington. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cheltenham to Darlington.
The train station in Cheltenham that goes to Darlington is Cheltenham Spa (CNM), which connects to Darlington station (DAR).
The cheapest way to get from Cheltenham to Darlington is by bus, with a cost of around $60 (€60).
The train journey from Cheltenham to Darlington offers views of the Cotswolds' rolling hills, picturesque countryside, and charming villages, making it a scenic experience.
A day trip from Cheltenham to Darlington is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 55m. However, there are 8 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 182 miles (294 km).
For a fulfilling visit to Darlington, spending 2 to 3 days should be sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Head of Steam Railway Museum, South Park, and the Darlington Hippodrome, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Cheltenham to Darlington.
Since neither Cheltenham nor Darlington are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Darlington include Newcastle, Middlesbrough, Leeds, York, Thornaby.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham to Darlington among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Darlington, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets and train stations. Be wary of unofficial taxi services to avoid overcharging. It's also advisable to keep an eye on personal belongings and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night. Always use licensed transportation and stay informed about local safety updates.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cheltenham to Darlington
Most Cheltenham to Darlington trains use the Cheltenham Spa to Darlington station pair, with some services arriving at North Road. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Darlington train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cheltenham
Arrival train stations in Darlington
Which Cheltenham station do trains to Darlington leave from?
Trains from Cheltenham to Darlington leave from Cheltenham Spa. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cheltenham city centre at Cheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom.
Cheltenham SpaCheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom+44 345 165 2030
City-centre transport
Getting to Cheltenham Spa from Cheltenham city centre
Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD, E, G · 7m · $4 · every ~25 min
M1 · 8m
Cheltenham Spa train station facilities and services
Cheltenham Spa has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Railway Inn, The Coconut Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham Spa. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Cheltenham Spa. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham Spa: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Queens Hotel Cheltenham, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham, Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham.
Which Darlington station do trains from Cheltenham arrive at?
Trains from Cheltenham to Darlington most often arrive at Darlington. Some services arrive at North Road, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Darlington arrival station.
DarlingtonDarlington station, Bank Top, Darlington, County Durham, DL1 4AA
City-centre transport
Getting to Darlington from Darlington city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement coach services depart from the station entrance
Darlington train station facilities and services
Darlington has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Darlington.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Darlington.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Darlington.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Darlington: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Darlington: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Darlington: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: text phones are available and staff are on hand to assist as required due to no low level phones, Accessible taxis: Generally available but advance booking recommended, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
North RoadNorth Road (Darlington) station, Station Road, Darlington, County Durham, DL3 6ST
City-centre transport
Getting to North Road from Darlington city centre
North Road is 1 km from Darlington city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainDarlington - Bishop Auckland, Saltburn - Bishop Auckland · 3m · $1 · every ~2 min
North Road train station facilities and services
North Road has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at North Road.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at North Road: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at North Road: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at North Road: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category C Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - Station is unstaffed there are 2 entrances to the staton, one is via steep steps 11 in total, the other is via a stepped ramps and about 40-50 metres in length, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Cheltenham
More options for your journey from Cheltenham to Darlington
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Darlington and Cheltenham
Most popular train connections to Darlington
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