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The cheapest and fastest trains from Derby to Watford
Showing times and prices for May 31
Cheapest price
$0.00
Average price
$111
Fastest journey
2 h 2 m
Average duration
2 h 2 m
Trains per day
38
Distance
159 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Derby to Watford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Derby to Watford without transferring at least once.
7:57 AM2h14Derby10:11 AMWatfordFind prices1 transfer- 9:54 AM2h21Derby12:15 PMWatfordFind prices1 transfer
10:31 AM3h02Derby1:33 PMWatfordFind prices1 transfer- 12:40 PM2h53Derby3:33 PMWatfordFind prices1 transfer
- 2:06 PM2h05Derby4:11 PMWatfordFind prices1 transfer
- 11:26 AM2h02Derby1:28 PMWatford$1481One-way1 transfer
- 12:26 PM2h02Derby2:28 PMWatford$1481One-way1 transfer
- 1:26 PM2h02Derby3:28 PMWatford$1481One-way1 transfer
- 2:26 PM2h02Derby4:28 PMWatford$1481One-way1 transfer
- 3:26 PM2h02Derby5:28 PMWatford$1481One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Derby to Watford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Derby to Watford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $82. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $82, and a train costs an average of $30.
Distance: 98 miles (159 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$94 Average price | $93 Average price Cheapest | $42 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 25m Average total duration Fastest 1h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration 4h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Derby to Watford is a bus with an average price of $93 (€75).
This is compared to other travel options from Derby to Watford:
A bus is $1 (€0.93) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Derby to Watford costing on average $94 (€76).
The fastest way to travel from Derby to Watford is by train with an average journey time of 1h 55m.
Other travel options to Watford take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Derby and Watford including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Derby to Watford 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 8m sooner (1h 55m by train vs 2h 3m by car). Tickets start at around $94 (€76) compared to roughly $42 (€33) 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.
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
Derby to Watford train times
The table below shows live departures for Derby to Watford trains for tomorrow, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:57 AM Derby | 2h14 | 10:11 AM Watford | 1 transfer | |
| 8:54 AM Derby | 2h40 | 11:34 AM Watford | 1 transfer | |
| 9:31 AM Derby | 2h35 | 12:06 PM Watford | 1 transfer | |
| 9:54 AM Derby | 2h21 | 12:15 PM Watford | 1 transfer | |
| 10:31 AM Derby | 3h02 | 1:33 PM Watford | 1 transfer | |
| 11:26 AM Derby | 2h02 | 1:28 PM Watford | 1 transfer | |
| 11:34 AM Derby | 2h05 | 1:39 PM Watford | 1 transfer | |
| 12:26 PM Derby | 2h02 | 2:28 PM Watford | 1 transfer | |
| 12:31 PM Derby | 2h08 | 2:39 PM Watford | 1 transfer | |
| 12:40 PM Derby | 2h53 | 3:33 PM Watford | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Derby to Watford 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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May 31
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Why should you book Derby to Watford trains with Omio?
West Midlands Trains as well as Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Derby to Watford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Derby to Watford.
Why book with Omio vs West Midlands Trains?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for West Midlands Trains, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Derby to Watford.
- 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 West Midlands Trains with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Derby to Watford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Derby to Watford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Derby to Watford.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Derby to Watford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Derby to Watford run on average 18 times per day, taking around 1h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 (€24) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:09, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 98 miles (159 km) distance in 2h 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 98 miles (159 km) |
Average train duration 1h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $30 (€24) |
Trains per day 18 |
Fastest train 2h 6m |
First train 4:09 AM |
Last train 10:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 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: West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country from Derby to Watford trainsWest Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Derby and Watford from $30 (€24). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 6m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 28m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€37)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
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
2h 26m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€48)
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
east_midlands_trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 57m
Cheapest Price
$148 (€119)
east_midlands_trains frequency
13 a day
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 5m
Cheapest Price
$190 (€153)
Cross Country frequency
11 a day
FAQs: Trains from Derby to Watford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Derby to Watford 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 Watford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Derby to Watford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $30 (€24), while the average price is around $94 (€76).
The train from Derby to Watford takes 2h 6m and runs 18 per day.
The distance by train from Derby to Watford is 98 miles (159 km).
The first train from Derby to Watford leaves at 4:09 AM.
The last train from Derby to Watford leaves at 10:20 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Derby to Watford.
There is no direct train service currently available from Derby to Watford.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Derby to Watford.
The train station in Derby that goes to Watford is Derby station (DBY), which connects to Watford Junction (WFJ).
The cheapest way to get from Derby to Watford is by train, with a cost of around $30 (€24).
The train journey from Derby to Watford offers a pleasant view of the English countryside, passing through charming towns and green landscapes, but it is not typically considered one of the most scenic routes in the UK.
A day trip from Derby to Watford is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 6m, exceeding the 120-minute limit. Trains run every 15 per day over a distance of 98 miles (159 km).
In Watford, you can enjoy performances at the historic Watford Palace Theatre and community events at the Pump House Theatre and Arts Centre. For shopping and entertainment, visit Intu Watford. Experience fun golfing at Topgolf Watford or explore nature at Rickmansworth Aquadrome. Discover local history at Watford Museum and the enchanting world of Harry Potter at Warner Bros. Studio Tour London. Relax at Cassiobury Park, stroll through the gardens at Cheslyn House, or indulge at the luxurious Grove hotel and estate.
To explore Watford's main attractions, including the Warner Bros. Studio Tour London - The Making of Harry Potter and Cassiobury Park, a stay of 1 to 2 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Derby to Watford.
Since neither Derby nor Watford 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 Watford include London, Kings Langley, Birmingham, Hemel Hempstead, Coventry.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Derby to Watford 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 Watford, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the town center and around public transport hubs. Common scams include bogus ticket sellers and unofficial taxi services, so it's advised to book transportation through trusted providers. Staying alert in busy spots and using official channels for tickets and rides 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 Derby to Watford
Derby
Watford
The major train station for departures in Derby is Derby. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Derby for your trip from Derby to Watford.
Amenities at train station
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 04:55 - 22:45 Saturday 04:55 - 22:45 Sunday 06:20 - 23:00
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A step free station. This station has step free access. There are lifts to all platforms. There is a subway to platforms 2,3,4 and 5. Platforms 6 and 7 are accessed by lift only. This station has tactile paving at the edges of all platforms and at the foot and top of stairwells.
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1, Platform 2/3 and Platform 4/6. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1, Platform 2/3 and Platform 4/6; these toilets are operated by a radar key. The radar key is available from Customer Reception upon request.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Located in North Car Park
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Derby
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: From the rear of the station, at the Pride Park exit
The major train station for arrivals in Watford is Watford Junction. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Watford Junction for your journey to Watford from Derby.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotel
Lounge
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:30 - 23:00 Saturday 05:30 - 23:00 Sunday 06:30 - 22:30 Booking Office and Travel Centre
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- 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: Public telephones are accessible on platform 6
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket Vending Machines are located in the Booking Hall.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 6. The toilet facilities are available: Monday - Sunday 04:00-23:00. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key. A RADAR key is available from station staff upon request. The National key toilet facilities are available: Monday - Saturday 04:00-14:00 and Sunday 06:00-14:00.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Station forecourt
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Watford Junction
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from bay 1 of the bus station at the side of the railway station.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:30 - 10:00 Saturday 09:30 - 12:15
Shopping
- Type of shops available: High Street shops located nearby
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Level access to ticket office from street. Single island platform, accessible from entrance by staircase only
- Accessible taxis: Contact taxi operator directly
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Watford High Street
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop A in Lower High Street for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop B in Lower High Street for southbound services to Harrow & Wealdstone
- Metro: Watford London Underground station (Metropolitan line) is approximately 34 minutes' walk away
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:45 - 21:00 Saturday 08:15 - 15:15 Sunday 09:15 - 16:30
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent
Parking
- Car Park: Bushey Station
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Accessibility category C. This station does not have step-free access
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible taxis: contact taxi operator directly
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: behind the Ticket Office
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
- Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Bushey
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop A in Pinner Road for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop A in Pinner Road for southbound services to Harrow & Wealdstone
Most popular train connections from Derby
More options for your journey from Derby to Watford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Watford and Derby
Most popular train connections to Watford
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