- Must visit
Wardown House, Museum and Gallery
Luton's main museum in a Victorian mansion, covering local history, hats, lace, and changing exhibitions in a well-kept park setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cheltenham to Luton
Showing times and prices for Jul 25
Cheapest price
$60
Average price
$76
Fastest journey
3 h 7 m
Average duration
3 h 23 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
114 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cheltenham to Luton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to Luton will cost around $76 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $60.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Cheltenham for Luton on Sat, Jul 25, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jul 25 the direct trains cover the 114 km distance in an average of 3 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 7 m .
On Sat, Jul 25 the slowest trains will take 3 h 55 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
11:03 AM3h07Cheltenham2:10 PMLuton$601One-way0 transfers- 10:03 AM3h08Cheltenham1:11 PMLuton$681One-way0 transfers
- 7:15 AM3h55Cheltenham11:10 AMLuton$981One-way0 transfers
- 11:03 AM3h07Cheltenham2:10 PMLuton$601One-way0 transfers
- 10:03 AM3h08Cheltenham1:11 PMLuton$681One-way0 transfers
- 7:15 AM3h55Cheltenham11:10 AMLuton$981One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cheltenham to Luton
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cheltenham to Luton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 41m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $11, and a train costs an average of $53.
Distance: 70 miles (114 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$76 Average price | $20 Average price Cheapest | $24 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 11m Average total duration Fastest 2h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 44m Average total duration 4h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 18m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Cheltenham to Luton is a bus with an average price of $20 (€20).
This is compared to other travel options from Cheltenham to Luton:
A bus is $56 (€56) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cheltenham to Luton costing on average $76 (€76).
The fastest way to travel from Cheltenham to Luton is by train with an average journey time of 2h 41m.
Other travel options to Luton take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 14m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cheltenham and Luton including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham to Luton among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $76 (€76) compared to roughly $24 (€24) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-51.44 (€-51.44). The journey takes 2h 41m versus 2h 18m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Cheltenham to Luton train times
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Luton trains for tomorrow, Saturday, July 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:15 AM Cheltenham | 3h55 | 11:10 AM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:03 AM Cheltenham | 3h08 | 1:11 PM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:03 AM Cheltenham | 3h07 | 2:10 PM Luton | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cheltenham to Luton by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Sat
Jul 25
Jul 25
Sun
Jul 26
Jul 26
Mon
Jul 27
Jul 27
Tue
Jul 28
Jul 28
Wed
Jul 29
Jul 29
Thu
Jul 30
Jul 30
Fri
Jul 31
Jul 31
Why should you book Cheltenham to Luton trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) offer trains services from Cheltenham to Luton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cheltenham to Luton.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Cross Country or Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cheltenham to Luton.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cheltenham to Luton.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cheltenham to Luton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cheltenham to Luton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cheltenham to Luton run on average 3 times per day, taking around 2h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $53 (€53) but you can travel from only $11 (€11) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 02:26, the last at 22:16. The fastest train covers the 70 miles (114 km) distance in 3h 7m.
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 $11 (€11)
Distance 70 miles (114 km) |
Average train duration 2h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $53 (€53) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 3h 7m |
First train 2:26 AM |
Last train 10:16 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 63 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 $11 (€11)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cheltenham to Luton trainsGreat Western Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cheltenham and Luton from $11 (€11). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€53)
Great Western Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
$206 (€206)
Cross Country frequency
15 a day
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 53m
Cheapest Price
$134 (€134)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
10 a day
Complete guide to Luton
Things to do in Luton
Discover the best of Luton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Luton trip today.
- Must visit
Stockwood Discovery Centre
Museum complex with rural life displays, carriages, gardens, and archaeology, making it one of Luton's strongest family-friendly heritage sites.
- Recommended
The Hat Factory at Stockwood Discovery Centre
Working hat factory museum explaining Luton's famous hat-making trade through machinery, displays, and guided tours in an authentic setting.
- Must visit
Wardown Park
Large formal park with lakes, bridges, museum, and broad lawns, ideal for relaxing walks and one of Luton's best-loved green spaces.
- Recommended
Market Hill
Historic town centre square beside St Mary's Church, valued for events, heritage surroundings, and an authentic sense of old Luton.
- Recommended
Stockwood Park
Extensive parkland with gardens, play areas, and museum access, popular for family walks and exploring Luton's former estate landscape.
Bedfordshire Clanger
A Bedfordshire pastry with chopped meat, suet, onions and seasoning. It is closely tied to the county around Luton and is a classic local comfort food.
- Vegetarian
Chocolate Tooth Pudding
A suet dumpling stuffed with currants or jam. Long associated with Bedfordshire home cooking, it is a traditional local pudding served warm.
- Vegetarian
Bedfordshire Fruit Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with dried fruit and spices. It is a historic Bedfordshire bake often made for family gatherings and festive occasions.
Meah Restaurant
Established Turkish restaurant known for grilled meats, meze and generous portions. Casual atmosphere and dependable local favourite.
Monna Lisa
Well-known Indian restaurant with polished service and a long-standing reputation. Popular for classic curries in a smart but relaxed setting.
The Luton Dosa
Popular South Indian venue serving dosas, idli and vegetarian dishes. Simple setting, strong reputation and reliable regional flavours.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels near the airport can be pricey, but dining and local transit are usually cheaper than central London.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service may be included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.40
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Luton Airport Parkway -> Luton Station Interchange
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Arriva buses in Luton. Check fare caps in the operator app before you travel.
- For rail connections, use the DART between Luton Airport Parkway and London Luton Airport. Buy rail and DART tickets from official operators where possible.
FAQs: Trains from Cheltenham to Luton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham to Luton 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 Luton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cheltenham to Luton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $53 (€53), while the average price is around $76 (€76).
The train from Cheltenham to Luton takes 3h 7m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Cheltenham to Luton leaves at 2:26 AM.
The distance by train from Cheltenham to Luton is 70 miles (114 km).
The last train from Cheltenham to Luton leaves at 10:16 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cheltenham to Luton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cheltenham to Luton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cheltenham to Luton.
The train station in Cheltenham that goes to Luton is Cheltenham Spa (CNM), which connects to Luton station (LUT).
The cheapest way to get from Cheltenham to Luton is by bus, with a cost of around $11 (€11).
The train journey from Cheltenham to Luton offers a pleasant ride through the English countryside, with views of rolling hills and picturesque farmland, though it is not renowned for exceptionally scenic landscapes compared to other UK routes.
A day trip from Cheltenham to Luton is not feasible as the travel duration is 3h 7m and the journey is 70 miles (114 km). Trains run 4 times per day.
In Luton, visitors can explore The Mall Luton for shopping and dining, enjoy family-friendly activities at Woodside Animal Farm, and shop for fresh produce and crafts at Luton Indoor Market. For outdoor activities, Stockwood Park offers a space for picnics and sports. For entertainment, The Galaxy provides a cinema and bowling alley. Key sights include the Stockwood Discovery Centre with its local history exhibits and gardens, Wardown House Museum and Gallery, Luton Hoo Estate with its gardens and golf course, Whipsnade Zoo, and The Hat Factory Arts Centre, which hosts performances and art exhibitions.
Visitors typically find that spending one to two days in Luton is sufficient to explore its main attractions, such as the Stockwood Discovery Centre, Wardown House, and the charming local parks.
Yes, you can take the train from Cheltenham to Luton.
Since neither Cheltenham nor Luton 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 Luton include London, Bedford, St Albans, Wellingborough, Harpenden.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham to Luton 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 Luton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as Luton Airport and the town center. Taxi scams can occur, so using licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation is advised. Be wary of unofficial currency exchange services offering poor rates or counterfeit notes. Staying vigilant in busy spots and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Luton
Most Cheltenham to Luton trains use the Cheltenham Spa to Luton station pair, with some services arriving at London Luton Airport. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Luton 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 Luton
Which Cheltenham station do trains to Luton leave from?
Trains from Cheltenham to Luton 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 Luton station do trains from Cheltenham arrive at?
Trains from Cheltenham to Luton most often arrive at Luton. Some services arrive at London Luton Airport, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Luton arrival station.
LutonLuton station, Station Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2LT
City-centre transport
Getting to Luton from Luton city centre
Bus17 · 7m · $2 · every ~2 min
Luton train station facilities and services
Luton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, 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 Luton.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Luton. ATMs are available at Luton.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luton.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luton: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Luton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station: Step free access via lift to platform 5 only (some trains to Bedford/ the East Midlands) only. Steps to all other platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Luton DART ParkwayLuton LU2 0HB, UK
Luton DART Parkway train station facilities and services
Luton DART Parkway has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton DART Parkway: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Luton Airport ParkwayLuton Airport Parkway station, Parkway Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3JW
City-centre transport
Getting to Luton Airport Parkway from Luton city centre
Luton Airport Parkway is 1 km from Luton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCorby - London St Pancras International, Sheffield - London St Pancras International, Nottingham - London St Pancras International, Kettering - London St Pancras International, Wellingborough - London St Pancras International, East Midlands Parkway - London St Pancras International · 2m · $1 · every ~4 min
BusX4, X1, X2, Z, A, X3 · 5m · $4 · every ~41 min
612, X10 · 5m · $1 · every ~2 min
44, 45, 366 · 6m · $2 · every ~2 min
101, 100 · 10m · $4 · every ~7 min
Luton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services
Luton Airport Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Luton Airport Parkway.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Luton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Luton Airport Parkway.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Luton Airport Parkway.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Luton Airport Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Cheltenham
More options for your journey from Cheltenham to Luton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Luton and Cheltenham
Most popular train connections to Luton
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