- Must visit
Oriental Museum
World-class Oriental collections spanning China, Japan, Korea, Egypt, and South Asia in Durham University’s museum.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Chester to Durham
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chester to Durham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 57m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $29, and a train costs an average of $62.
Distance: 121 miles (196 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$62 Average price | $29 Average price Cheapest |
4h 27m Average total duration Fastest 3h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 55m Average total duration 11h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chester to Durham is a bus with an average price of $29 (€23).
This is compared to other travel options from Chester to Durham:
A bus is $33 (€27) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chester to Durham costing on average $62 (€50).
The fastest way to travel from Chester to Durham is by train with an average journey time of 3h 57m.
Other travel options to Durham take longer:
Bus takes on average 11h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chester and Durham including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chester to Durham among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Chester to Durham 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.
Mon
Aug 24
Aug 24
Tue
Aug 25
Aug 25
Wed
Aug 26
Aug 26
Thu
Aug 27
Aug 27
Fri
Aug 28
Aug 28
Sat
Aug 29
Aug 29
Sun
Aug 30
Aug 30
Why should you book Chester to Durham trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express operates all trains services from Chester to Durham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chester to Durham.
Why book with Omio vs Transpennine Express?
- 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 Transpennine Express with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chester to Durham.
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 Chester to Durham.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chester to Durham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chester to Durham run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $62 (€50) but you can travel from only $29 (€23) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:51, the last at 23:04. The fastest train covers the 121 miles (196 km) distance in 3h 46m.
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 $29 (€23)
Distance 121 miles (196 km) |
Average train duration 3h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $62 (€50) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 46m |
First train 3:51 AM |
Last train 11:04 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 28 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 $29 (€23)
Train companies: Transpennine Express from Chester to Durham trainsTranspennine Express trains will get you between Chester and Durham from $29 (€23). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 46m
Cheapest Price
$62 (€50)
Transpennine Express frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Durham
Things to do in Durham
Discover the best of Durham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Durham trip today.
- Recommended
Durham Museum and Heritage Centre
Award-winning museum on Durham’s heritage, archaeology, and local stories, housed in a former medieval church.
- Recommended
Open Treasure
Museum inside Durham Cathedral exploring monastic treasures, manuscripts, and the site’s long religious history.
- Must visit
River Wear Walk
Leafy riverside walk encircling the peninsula, famous for classic cathedral views and one of Durham’s best strolls.
- Must visit
Palace Green
Historic green beside cathedral and castle, central to the UNESCO site and ideal for architecture and atmosphere.
- Recommended
Silver Street
Cobbled street lined with old buildings, independent shops, and one of Durham’s most characterful city-centre walks.
- Vegetarian
Sunderland Cake
A spiced fruit loaf from nearby Sunderland, traditionally sliced and spread with butter. It is a classic North East tea-time treat with strong regional roots.
- Gluten-free
Pease Pudding
A rich savoury broth from the North East made with pulses, vegetables and usually ham or bacon. Long linked with working-class cooking and local comfort food.
Panackelty Pie
A hearty minced beef and onion pie under a pastry lid, strongly associated with North East football and pub food traditions.
The Bishop's Dining Room
Refined British fine dining by Tommy Banks in a historic setting. Known for seasonal tasting menus, polished service and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Bistro Citron Vert
A long-established riverside restaurant serving classic French dishes in a formal, traditional dining room. Well regarded for consistency and old-school charm.
Flat White Kitchen
Popular independent spot for brunch, coffee and casual meals. Relaxed modern atmosphere with strong local reputation for quality ingredients and baking.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK city breaks: hotels and dining are cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals are fairly affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis; cafes usually just small change.
Arriva UK Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Durham Railway Station -> Durham Market Place
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is available on Arriva buses in Durham; you can usually tap on board for adult fares.
- Durham city centre is compact, so many central trips from Durham Railway Station are walkable in about 10–15 min.
FAQs: Trains from Chester to Durham
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chester to Durham 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 Durham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chester to Durham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $62 (€50), while the average price is around $62 (€50).
The train from Chester to Durham takes 3h 46m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Chester to Durham is 121 miles (196 km).
The first train from Chester to Durham leaves at 3:51 AM.
The last train from Chester to Durham leaves at 11:04 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chester to Durham.
There is no direct train service currently available from Chester to Durham.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chester to Durham.
The train station in Chester that goes to Durham is Chester station (CTR), which connects to Durham station (DHM).
The cheapest way to get from Chester to Durham is by bus, with a cost of around $29 (€23).
The train journey from Chester to Durham offers picturesque views of the English countryside, including rolling hills and charming villages, particularly as you travel through the scenic landscapes of the North of England.
A day trip from Chester to Durham is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 46m each way. However, there are 4 train services available per day.
A stay of 2 to 3 days is often sufficient to explore Durham's key attractions, such as Durham Cathedral, Durham Castle, and the scenic River Wear, while allowing time to enjoy the local culture and dining.
Yes, you can take the train from Chester to Durham.
Since neither Chester nor Durham 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 Durham include Newcastle, Edinburgh, York, Leeds, Middlesbrough.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chester to Durham 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 Durham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like downtown and near popular attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unauthorized street vendors. Staying alert in nightlife districts and using licensed transportation services can help ensure safety.
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 Chester to Durham
Most Chester to Durham trains use the Chester to Durham station pair. Use this guide to compare Chester and Durham train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chester
Arrival train stations in Durham
Which Chester station do trains to Durham leave from?
Trains from Chester to Durham leave from Chester. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Chester city centre at Chester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS.
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester from Chester city centre
Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus100, 16 · 4m · $5 · every ~2 min
Chester train station facilities and services
Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Chester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, 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.
Which Durham station do trains from Chester arrive at?
Trains from Chester to Durham arrive at Durham. Durham is 0 miles (1 km) from Durham city centre.
DurhamDurham station, North Road, Durham, County Durham, DH1 4RB+44 345 722 5333
City-centre transport
Getting to Durham from Durham city centre
Bus2, 9, 12, 12B · 3m · $1 · every ~12 min
Durham train station facilities and services
Durham has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Durham.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Durham.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Durham.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Durham: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Durham: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Durham: 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 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.
Most popular train connections from Chester
More options for your journey from Chester to Durham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Durham and Chester
Most popular train connections to Durham
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
