Croydon to Luton train with Thameslink

Thu, Jun 25
+ Add return
Thameslink
East Midlands Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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2,000+ travel companies
Thameslink
East Midlands Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Croydon to Luton

Showing times and prices for Jun 25

Cheapest price

$37

Average price

$37

Fastest journey

1 h 7 m

Average duration

1 h 7 m

Trains per day

2

Distance

59 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Croydon to Luton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Croydon to Luton will cost around $37 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.

Fast trains

Of the 2 trains that leave Croydon for Luton on Thu, Jun 25, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jun 25 the direct trains cover the 59 km distance in an average of 1 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 7 m .

On Thu, Jun 25 the slowest trains will take 1 h 7 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.

  • Thameslink
    7:33 AM1h07
    Croydon
    8:40 AMLuton
    $371One-way
    0 transfers
  • Thameslink
    8:33 AM1h07
    Croydon
    9:40 AMLuton
    $371One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train for Croydon to Luton

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Croydon to Luton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 1m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $18.

Distance: 36 miles (59 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

$30

Average price

Cheapest

$34

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

1h 31m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 1m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 48m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Thameslink

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Croydon to Luton is a train with an average price of $30 (€25).
The fastest way to travel from Croydon to Luton is by train with an average journey time of 1h 1m.
Yes, you can take a train between Croydon and Luton.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Croydon to Luton among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.

The journey is about 47m faster (1h 1m by train vs 1h 48m by car) and roughly $4 (€3) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($30 (€25) vs $34 (€28)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.

Direct services run with Thameslink.

Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Croydon to Luton train times

The table below shows live departures for Croydon to Luton trains for today, Wednesday, June 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Thameslink8:33 AM Croydon
1h07
9:40 AM Luton0 transfersDirect
Thameslink11:21 AM Croydon
1h06
12:27 PM Luton0 transfersDirect
Thursday, June 25
Thameslink7:33 AM Croydon
1h07
8:40 AM Luton0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Croydon to Luton by train

Compare 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.

Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28
Mon
Jun 29
Tue
Jun 30
Wed
Jul 01

Why should you book Croydon to Luton trains with Omio?

Thameslink as well as East Midlands Railway offer trains services from Croydon to Luton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Croydon to Luton.

Why book with Omio vs Thameslink?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Thameslink, but also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway to find the best option for your trip from Croydon 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.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway to find the best option for your trip from Croydon to Luton.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Croydon to Luton?

The best time to book your train from Croydon to Luton is 7 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Croydon to Luton route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Croydon to Luton per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Croydon to Luton.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Croydon to Luton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Croydon to Luton run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 1m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 (€15) if you book in advance.

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 36 miles (59 km) distance in 1h 6m.

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
Distance
36 miles (59 km)
Average train duration
1h 1m
Cheapest ticket price
$18 (€15)
Trains per day
9
Direct trains
8
Fastest train
1h 6m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Fri
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

Train companies: Thameslink, East Midlands Railway from Croydon to Luton trainsThameslink, East Midlands Railway trains will get you between Croydon and Luton from $18 (€15). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

East Midlands Railway

About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 25m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€23)
East Midlands Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the 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
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone

Thameslink

About
Thameslink is a train service that operates in the United Kingdom. It is operated by Govia Thameslink Railway and serves the counties of Bedfordshire, Cambridgeshire, Hertfordshire, London, and Surrey. The trains run from early morning until late at night, with some services running 24 hours a day. There are a variety of train types available, including Class 700 Desiro City, Class 377 Electrostar, Class 387/1 Electrostar, and Class 319/0. Ticket types include Anytime, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. The most popular routes for Thameslink are London to Brighton, London to Bedford, and London to Luton.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 6m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
Thameslink frequency
50 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund available if service is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on some routes offering drinks and snacks
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free of charge. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

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

Wardown House, Museum and Gallery

Victorian mansion housing Luton's main museum and gallery, covering local history, hat making, and decorative arts in a landscaped park setting.

  • Recommended

Stockwood Discovery Centre

Museum and gardens with local history displays, carriages, and the period Mossman Collection. A strong family-friendly introduction to Luton's heritage.

  • Recommended

The Higgins Bedford

Major nearby art gallery and museum often visited from Luton for its fine art, local history, and rotating exhibitions. Worth considering for a wider cultural day trip.

Pound sterling

Generally cheaper than central London, but airport-area hotels and some transport can raise costs.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-12 for takeaway or a simple meal.
Mid-range
GBP 15-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 50+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is often included in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up taxis. No tip needed for pubs, cafes, or takeaway.

FAQs: Trains from Croydon to Luton

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Croydon 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Croydon to Luton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18 (€15), while the average price is around $30 (€25).
The train from Croydon to Luton takes 1h 6m and runs 9 per day.
The distance by train from Croydon to Luton is 36 miles (59 km).
The first train from Croydon to Luton leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Croydon to Luton leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Croydon to Luton.
Yes, there is a direct train from Croydon to Luton. This service operates 8 times per day, provided by Thameslink.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Croydon to Luton.
The train station in Croydon that goes to Luton is East Croydon (ECR), which connects to Luton station (LUT).
The cheapest way to get from Croydon to Luton is by train, with a cost of around $18 (€15).
The train journey from Croydon to Luton is primarily urban and suburban, passing through areas like central London, so it may not be considered particularly scenic compared to more rural routes.
Yes, a day trip from Croydon to Luton is feasible. The journey takes 1h 6m and covers 36 miles (59 km). Trains run frequently with 6 trips 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 Croydon to Luton.
Since neither Croydon 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Croydon 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 Croydon to Luton

Most Croydon to Luton trains use the East Croydon to Luton station pair, with some services arriving at Luton Airport Parkway. Use this guide to compare Croydon and Luton train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Croydon
Arrival train stations in Luton

Which Croydon station do trains to Luton leave from?

Trains from Croydon to Luton leave from East Croydon. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Croydon city centre at East Croydon station, Station Approach, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 1LF.
East CroydonEast Croydon station, Station Approach, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 1LFWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to East Croydon from Croydon city centre

East Croydon is 1 km from Croydon city centre. Public transport options include:

BusN68 · 11m · $2 · every ~2 min

East Croydon train station facilities and services

East Croydon has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at East Croydon.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at East Croydon. ATMs are available at East Croydon.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at East Croydon.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at East Croydon: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at East Croydon: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at East Croydon: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free access to all platforms. Lifts to overbridge from all platforms and side entrance. Long steep ramps to platforms from main entrance. (over 1:10 gradient). Assistance Meeting Point is the Information Point on station concourse, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern 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.

PurleyPurley station, Station Approach, Whytecliffe Road, Purley, London, CR2 2APWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Purley from Croydon city centre

Purley is 5 km from Croydon city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLondon Bridge - Caterham, London Victoria - Reigate, Tulse Hill - Caterham, London Bridge - Tattenham Corner, London Victoria - Brighton, London Victoria - Three Bridges, London Victoria - Ore, London Victoria - Horsham, London Bridge - Purley, London Victoria - Redhill, East Croydon - Caterham, London Victoria - Bognor Regis, London Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour · 8m · $2 · every ~9 min
Bus407, N68 · 19m · $2 · every ~21 min
60 · 20m · $2 · every ~24 min
439 · 22m · $2 · every ~6 min
289 · 47m · $2 · every ~20 min

Purley train station facilities and services

Purley has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Purley.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Purley. ATMs are available at Purley.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Purley.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Purley: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Purley: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Purley: 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. Assistance Meeting Point is on platform 6 above the waiting room, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern 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.

West CroydonWest Croydon station, London Road, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 2TAWifiShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to West Croydon from Croydon city centre

Bus289 · 4m · $2 · every ~20 min
450 · 5m · $2 · every ~22 min
157 · 7m · $2 · every ~20 min

West Croydon train station facilities and services

West Croydon has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at West Croydon.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at West Croydon.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at West Croydon.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at West Croydon: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at West Croydon: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at West Croydon: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: B2 station category. Step free access available for platform 1 and 3 using the London Road car park entrance . This side gate is kept locked but has help buttons to request use. Step-free access via separate entrance to platform 4 (to Sutton), 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.

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