Essen to London train with National Express

Sat, Jan 10
+ Add return
National Express
Eurostar
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
1,000+ travel companies
National Express
Eurostar
Deutsche Bahn
Regionale
iryo
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Essen to London

Showing times and prices for Jan 11

Cheapest price

$202

Average price

$360

Fastest journey

6 h 48 m

Average duration

7 h 17 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

494 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Essen to London will cost around $360 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $202.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Essen for London on Sun, Jan 11, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jan 11 the direct trains cover the 494 km distance in an average of 7 h 17 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 48 m .

On Sun, Jan 11 the slowest trains will take 7 h 58 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.

Deutsche Bahn
09:59AM7h58
Essen
05:57PMLondon
$2021One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
06:09AM6h48
Essen
12:57PMLondon
$4011One-way
0 transfers
Deutsche Bahn
06:21AM7h06
Essen
01:27PMLondon
$4761One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Essen to London

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Essen to London among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €50. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.5 - 1.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €50, and a train costs an average of €105.

Distance: 306 miles (494 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Flight
Bus

€244

Average price

€94

Average price

€88

Average price

Cheapest

6h 3m

Average total duration

5h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 35m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 35m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

16h 28m

Average total duration

15h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

-

CO2 emissions

1.5 - 3.0kg

CO2 emissions

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Essen to London train times

The table below shows live departures for Essen to London trains for tomorrow, Sunday, January 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 9:09 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
deutsche_bahn6:09 AM Essen
6h48
12:57 PM London0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn6:21 AM Essen
7h06
1:27 PM London0 transfersDirect
deutsche_bahn9:59 AM Essen
7h58
5:57 PM London0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Essen to London by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, and flight 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.

Sun
Jan 11
Mon
Jan 12
Tue
Jan 13
Wed
Jan 14
Thu
Jan 15
Fri
Jan 16
Sat
Jan 17

Why should you book Essen to London trains with Omio?

National Express as well as Eurostar and Deutsche Bahn offer trains services from Essen to London. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Essen to London.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Eurostar and Deutsche Bahn to find the best option for your trip from Essen to London.
  • 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 National Express with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Essen to London.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • Multiple travel company options: While National Express tickets can be bought on National Express's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of Eurostar and Deutsche Bahn to help you choose the right option for your journey from Essen to London.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Essen to London.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Essen to London

GermanyGermany
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Essen to London run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 33m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $130 (€105) but you can travel from only $29 (€24) by flight.

The earliest train runs at 02:09, the last at 22:00. The fastest train covers the 306 miles (494 km) distance in 6h 44m.

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
Flight from $29 (€24)
Distance
306 miles (494 km)
Average train duration
5h 33m
Cheapest ticket price
$130 (€105)
Trains per day
5
Fastest train
6h 44m
First train
02:09
Last train
22:00
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
Flight from $29 (€24)

Train companies: National Express, Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn from Essen to London trainsNational Express, Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn trains will get you between Essen and London from $29 (€24). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Eurostar

About
Eurostar is a high-speed international rail service connecting the UK with France, Belgium, the Netherlands, and Germany, primarily via the Channel Tunnel. Since merging with Thalys in October 2023, Eurostar now operates an expanded network across Western Europe. Known for its city-center to city-center travel, Eurostar offers a convenient and environmentally friendly alternative to flying. Passengers can enjoy amenities like complimentary Wi-Fi and power sockets at every seat. Key destinations include London, Paris, Brussels, Amsterdam, and Cologne, with seasonal services to other locations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 48m
Cheapest Price
$325 (€262)
Eurostar frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included in standard ticket
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage areas at the end of carriages and overhead racks
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies depend on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled trains
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café-bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First-class passengers receive complimentary meals on some routes
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for all classes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/disembarking available
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed for a fee. Large dogs not permitted except guide dogs
Quiet zone

Deutsche Bahn

About
Deutsche Bahn (DB) is Germany’s main train operator, running around 40,000 domestic and international services each day. Its fleet includes a variety of train types: high-speed ICE (Intercity Express) trains, reaching up to 300 km/h; IC (Intercity) and EC (EuroCity) trains for long-distance travel; and IRE (Interregio-Express), RE (Regional Express), and RB (Regionalbahn) services for regional and local connections. While bathrooms are standard on all trains, amenities such as onboard restaurants and free Wi-Fi are available only on certain train types and routes. DB offers a wide range of fares, including Super Saver, Saver, and Flexible tickets, along with discount cards like the BahnCard 25, 50, and 100. Additional options include single tickets, day tickets, and group tickets. Popular routes include Berlin–Munich, Hamburg–Frankfurt, Cologne–Stuttgart, Berlin–Dresden, and Hamburg–Cologne, as well as numerous regional services across Germany.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 20m
Cheapest Price
$264 (€213)
Deutsche Bahn frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Passengers are allowed to bring hand luggage and one additional larger item free of charge, provided they can carry it themselves
Luggage storage
Luggage can be stored in overhead racks, under the seat, or in designated luggage areas near the doors or in the middle of the carriage.
Cancellation Policy
Tickets can be canceled based on their fare conditions as mentioned in what type of train tickets are refundable?
Refund
If DB cancels a train, passengers are entitled to a full refund of the ticket price.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Most ICE and many IC/EC trains have:
A Bordrestaurant (restaurant car) where you can sit and eat.
A Bordbistro (bistro bar) with snacks, hot meals, and drinks to-go.
At-seat service in 1st class: staff will take your order and serve food/drinks directly to your seat.
Regional trains (RE / RB / S-Bahn):
No onboard catering.
You’re welcome to bring your own food and drinks.
Seat reservation
Second Class:
Not included by default.
You can add a seat reservation when booking (recommended for busy routes).
Costs around €4.90 per seat (or €5.90 if booked separately later).
First Class:
Yes, always included in the ticket price.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
DB trains are equipped with facilities for passengers with reduced mobility, including wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, and assistance services.
Pets
Small pets (e.g. cats, small dogs, etc.):
Allowed for free if they can fit in a transport box (max. size: hand luggage).
Must stay in the box for the entire journey.
Large dogs:
Require a separate (paid) ticket — typically half the price of a regular second-class ticket.
Must be leashed and wear a muzzle while on the train.
Cannot sit on seats.
Assistance dogs:
Travel free of charge.
Do not need a muzzle or leash if medically not required.
Allowed to accompany the passenger at all times.
Quiet zone

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 48m
Cheapest Price
$252 (€203)
National Express frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.

FAQs: Trains from Essen to London

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Essen to London 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 London, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
For a comprehensive experience of London's top attractions, cultural sites, and local neighborhoods, it is recommended to spend around 3 to 5 days in the city. This allows time to explore major landmarks such as the British Museum, Tower of London, and Buckingham Palace, as well as enjoy local markets and parks.
A day trip from Essen to London is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 44m. There are 5 trains per day covering the distance of 306 miles (494 km).
In London, you can enjoy panoramic views of the city from The London Eye, visit the vibrant West End Theatre District for high-quality shows, and explore Camden Market's eclectic mix of food, fashion, and crafts. A walk through Hyde Park offers beautiful landscapes and recreational activities, while art lovers can visit the Tate Modern. Don't miss The British Museum's vast collection of art and antiquities, the historic Tower of London with its Crown Jewels, and Buckingham Palace. Iconic landmarks like The Houses of Parliament and Big Ben, along with St. Paul's Cathedral, offer a glimpse into the city's rich history and architecture.
The train journey from Essen to London offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the rolling landscapes of the German and Belgian countryside, with glimpses of charming villages and lush greenery.
Train ticket prices from Essen to London can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $130 (€105), while the average price is around $302 (€244).
The distance by train from Essen to London is 306 miles (494 km).
The cheapest way to get from Essen to London is by flight, with a cost of around $29 (€24).
The first train from Essen to London leaves at 2:09 AM.
The train from Essen to London takes 6h 44m and runs 5 per day.
The last train from Essen to London leaves at 10:00 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Essen to London.
The train station in Essen that goes to London is Essen Hbf, which connects to London St Pancras International (STP).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Essen to London.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Essen to London.
Yes, you can take the train from Essen to London.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Essen to London

Essen
London
The major train station for departures in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your trip from Essen to London.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Monday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Tuesday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Wednesday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Thursday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Friday: 07:30 - 19:00
  • Saturday: 09:00 - 18:00
  • Sunday: 09:00 - 18:00
Dining
Dining
  • Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
  • Kiepenkerl
  • Cafe Extrablatt
  • Tacos
Hotel
Hotel
  • Ambassador
  • Gästearpartment Dahl
  • WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
  • Motel One
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Dining
Dining
  • Pizzeria Don Camillo
  • Lindos
  • Zur Platte
  • Arman Döner
Hotel
Hotel
  • McDreams

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone