- Recommended
Bassetlaw Museum
Local history museum inside a historic townhouse. Exhibits cover Retford's civic past, industries, and everyday life in an accessible central setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London to Retford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 07
- Cheapest price on Nov 07
- $32
- Average ticket price on Nov 07
- $38
- Fastest journey on Nov 07
- 1 h 23 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 07
- 1 h 23 m
- Trains on Nov 07
- 2
- Distance
- 209 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London to Retford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from London to Retford will cost around $38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.
Fast trains
On Sat, Nov 07, we found 2 trains from London to Retford, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Nov 07 the direct trains cover the 209 km distance in an average of 1 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 23 m .
On Sat, Nov 07 the slowest trains will take 1 h 23 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.
12:00 PM 1h23 London 1:23 PM Retford $32 1 One-way 0 transfers11:00 AM 1h23 London 12:23 PM Retford $45 1 One-way 0 transfers
12:00 PM 1h23 London 1:23 PM Retford $32 1 One-way 0 transfers11:00 AM 1h23 London 12:23 PM Retford $45 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from London to Retford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from London to Retford run on average 5 times per day, taking around 1h 28m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $20 but you can travel from only $6 by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:42, the last at 23:04. The fastest train covers the 129 miles (209 km) distance in 1h 22m.
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 $6
Distance 129 miles (209 km) |
Average train duration 1h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 1h 22m |
First train 5:42 AM |
Last train 11:04 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $6
Frequently asked questions about your London to Retford trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from London to Retford.
Train ticket prices from London to Retford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $20, while the average price is around $59.
The train from London to Retford takes 1h 22m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from London to Retford leaves at 5:42 AM.
The distance by train from London to Retford is 129 miles (209 km).
The last train from London to Retford leaves at 11:04 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from London to Retford. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Hull Trains, London North Eastern Railway.
Live departures
London to Retford train times
The table below shows live departures for London to Retford trains for tomorrow, Saturday, November 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:00 AM London | 1h23 | 12:23 PM Retford | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:00 PM London | 1h23 | 1:23 PM Retford | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book London to Retford trains with Omio?
Hull Trains as well as London North Eastern Railway, East Midlands Railway, Great Northern and more offer trains services from London to Retford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London to Retford.
Why book with Omio vs Hull Trains?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Hull Trains, but also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway, East Midlands Railway or Great Northern to find the best option for your trip from London to Retford.
- 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 Hull Trains with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from London to Retford.
Why book with Omio over Trainline, Raileurope or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway, East Midlands Railway or Great Northern to find the best option for your trip from London to Retford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from London to Retford.
Train companies: London North Eastern Railway, Hull Trains, East Midlands Railway, Great Northern from London to Retford trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, Hull Trains, East Midlands Railway, Great Northern trains will get you between London and Retford from $6. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
1h 24m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$27
London North Eastern Railway frequency
3 a day
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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Hull Trains
About
Hull Trains is a British train operator that provides services between Hull and London. It operates up to five trains per day, with two direct services and three services that require a change at Brough. The trains are modern and comfortable, with two types available: the Super Express and the Express. The Super Express offers a faster journey time and more spacious seating, while the Express is a more economical option. Hull Trains offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. The most popular routes are Hull to London Kings Cross and Hull to Brough. Passengers can also take advantage of the Hull Trains Plus loyalty scheme, which offers discounts and rewards.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Hull Trains Duration
1h 22m
Cheapest Hull Trains Price
$20
Hull Trains frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Standard luggage allowance included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Can be added during booking
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available. Staff assistance for boarding/alighting
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket
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 East Midlands Railway Duration
3h 21m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$69
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
Great Northern
About
Great Northern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It offers a wide range of services, including high-speed trains, regional trains, and sleeper services. The high-speed trains are called InterCity Express Trains and they offer a fast and comfortable journey between major cities. The regional trains are called Regional Express Trains and they provide a slower but more frequent service to smaller towns and villages. The sleeper services are called Caledonian Sleeper Trains and they offer overnight journeys with comfortable sleeping compartments. Great Northern offers a variety of ticket types, including single, return, and group tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. The most popular routes for Great Northern are London to Cambridge, London to Peterborough, and London to Norwich. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Northern Duration
1h 47m
Cheapest Great Northern Price
$49
Great Northern frequency
1 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
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets free, maximum two dogs per passenger, must be on lead
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between London and Retford
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from London to Retford.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London to Retford.
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.
Complete guide to Retford
Things to do in Retford
Discover the best of Retford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Retford trip today.
- Recommended
Scrooby Manor House
Family home museum of the Pilgrim Fathers leader William Brewster. A major Mayflower heritage site with period rooms and strong historical significance.
- Recommended
Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre
Museum at an RAF heritage site with aircraft displays and wartime interpretation. Popular with history enthusiasts visiting the wider Retford area.
- Recommended
Market Square
Retford's central square, known for markets and civic life. It is the best place to experience the town's historic core and everyday atmosphere.
- Recommended
Kings' Park
Popular town-centre park with lawns, play areas, and sports facilities. It is a relaxing green space and a favourite with local families.
- Recommended
Chesterfield Canal Towpath
Waterside walking route with boats, locks, and wildlife. Ideal for a gentle stroll and one of Retford's most enjoyable outdoor experiences.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stilton Cheese
A soft cows' milk blue cheese made in nearby Nottinghamshire. Creamy, mellow and historic, it is one of the county's best known traditional foods.
Pork Pie
A classic Nottinghamshire pork pie linked to nearby market towns. It has seasoned pork in hot water crust pastry and is a staple of local fairs and pubs.
Sunday Roast
A hearty roast beef dinner with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes and gravy. It is a beloved Sunday pub meal across Retford and the wider region.
The Bay Tree Cafe
Well known local cafe and deli serving breakfast, lunch, coffee and homemade cakes in a casual daytime atmosphere.
Jashan Indian Brasserie
Popular Indian restaurant in Retford with a long standing reputation for curries, tandoori dishes and friendly service.
The White Hart
Established town centre pub and restaurant known for British classics, steaks and ales in a relaxed historic setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England. Hotels, dining, and local buses usually cost less than major UK cities, but more than many small towns abroad.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Retford Railway Station -> Retford Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Stagecoach buses in Retford can be tracked and tickets bought in the official Stagecoach Bus app.
- Contactless card payment is accepted on most Stagecoach buses; ask the driver if you need the cheapest valid ticket.
Plan your visit to Retford
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Retford.
The train journey from London to Retford offers a mix of scenic countryside views, passing through areas such as the rolling hills of the East Midlands and picturesque landscapes, especially as you travel beyond the urban areas.
Popular day trips by train from Retford include Lincoln, Worksop, Nottingham, Sheffield, Leeds.
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 Retford, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, particularly in busy areas such as markets and train stations. It's advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be wary of distraction techniques used by pickpockets. Additionally, travelers should be cautious when using unofficial taxi services to avoid overcharging or scams. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation helps 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.
FAQs: Trains from London to Retford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London to Retford 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 Retford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from London to Retford.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from London to Retford
Most London to Retford trains use the London Kings Cross to Retford station pair. Use this guide to compare London and Retford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in London
Arrival train stations in Retford
London Kings CrossEuston Rd, London N1 9AL, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to London Kings Cross from London city centre
Bus73, N73 · 27m · $3 · every ~33 min
390 · 29m · $3 · every ~27 min
91, N91 · 29m · $18 · every ~28 min
SubwayPiccadilly · 7m · $3 · every ~91 min
London Kings Cross train station facilities and services
London Kings Cross has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Caffè Nero, Starbucks, The Pasty Shop, Upper Crust, Giraffe World Kitchen, Black Sheep Coffee, Hotel Chocolat, Leon, Pret a Manger, Wasabi, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free, unlimited Wi-Fi in the station. . ATMs are located near Platforms 11 and 10, just past Caffé Nero.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:00 - 01:36, Sat: 05:00 - 00:36, Sun: 05:30 - 01:36. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is located by the entrance of Platform 9 provided by Excess Baggage Co, open daily from 08:00 until 21:00. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at London Kings Cross: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at London Kings Cross: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at London Kings Cross: There is step-free access in the whole station to all platforms. There are elevators between the concourse and Mezzanine and London Underground ticket hall.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Point A Hotel, London Kings Cross St Pancras, Premier Inn London Kings Cross Hotel, St. Pancras Renaissance Hotel London.
London WaterlooLondon Waterloo station, Station Approach, London, Greater London., SE1 8SW+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to London Waterloo from London city centre
London Waterloo is 1 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus139 · 10m · $3 · every ~27 min
SubwayNorthern · 3m · $2 · every ~86 min
London Waterloo train station facilities and services
London Waterloo has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at London Waterloo.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at London Waterloo. ATMs are available at London Waterloo.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at London Waterloo. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, 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 London Waterloo: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at London Waterloo: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at London Waterloo: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: There is step free access from the main concourse to all platforms, shops and facilities. Step free exits are exit 1 (Station approach), exit 2 (with a lift to Waterloo Road and lift access to the London Underground Jubilee line), and exit 3 for taxis and onward travel towards the South Bank, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available from the taxi rank on Cab Road / Station Approach, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket machines are located at various locations on the main concourse and are accessible to wheelchair users, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
London St Pancras InternationalPancras Road, London, Greater London, N1C 4QP, UK+44 2078437688
City-centre transport
Getting to London St Pancras International from London city centre
Bus91, N91 · 23m · $14 · every ~28 min
73, N73 · 26m · $3 · every ~33 min
390 · 48m · $3 · every ~27 min
SubwayPiccadilly · 11m · $3 · every ~91 min
London St Pancras International train station facilities and services
London St Pancras International has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Betjeman Arms, AMT Coffee, The Booking Office, Carluccio’s, Chop’d, Greggs
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free, unlimited WiFi is available throughout the station. ATMs are located in the Circle area and inside the Arcade.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:45 - 22:00, Sat: 06:00 - 21:00, Sun: 08:00 - 22:15. Information desks are located on the lower level in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located on the lower concourse close to the Eurostar line. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at London St Pancras International: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at London St Pancras International: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at London St Pancras International: Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators, complimentary assistance for passengers with reduced mobility and other needs.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Standard, Kimpton Fitzroy London, Alhambra Hotel.
Which Retford station do trains from London arrive at?
Trains from London to Retford arrive at Retford. Retford is 0 miles (1 km) from Retford city centre.
RetfordRetford station, Station Road, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 7DE
City-centre transport
Getting to Retford from Retford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail Replacement Coaches leave from the front of the station.
Retford train station facilities and services
Retford has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Retford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Retford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Retford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Retford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Retford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Advance booking is advisable, 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.
Train stations for London to Retford
Check train stations information for London and Retford, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in London that goes to Retford is London Kings Cross, which connects to Retford.
More options for your journey from London to Retford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Retford and London
Most popular train connections to Retford
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