- Must visit
Museum Folkwang
One of Germany’s leading art museums, known for major 19th- to 21st-century collections and high-quality temporary exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London to Essen
Showing times and prices for Jun 14
Cheapest price
$377
Average price
$377
Fastest journey
6 h 14 m
Average duration
6 h 14 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
494 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London to Essen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from London to Essen will cost around $377 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $377.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from London to Essen without transferring at least once.
9132 · 94591:01 PM6h14London St Pancras International (STP)8:15 PMEssen Hbf$3771One-way1 transfer
- 9132 · 94591:01 PM6h14London St Pancras International (STP)8:15 PMEssen Hbf$3771One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for London to Essen
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from London to Essen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 19m. 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 flight costs an average of $21, and a train costs an average of $145.
Distance: 306 miles (494 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$390 Average price | $64 Average price Cheapest | $91 Average price | $44 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 23m Average total duration 4h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 19m Average total duration Fastest 1h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 16h 27m Average total duration 15h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from London to Essen is a flight with an average price of $64 (€52).
This is compared to other travel options from London to Essen:
A flight is $27 (€22) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from London to Essen costing on average $91 (€73).
A flight is $326 (€264) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London to Essen costing on average $390 (€316).
The fastest way to travel from London to Essen is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 19m.
Other travel options to Essen take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 53m.
Bus takes on average 15h 57m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between London and Essen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from London to Essen 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 2h 53m sooner (4h 53m by train vs 7h 46m by car). Tickets start at around $390 (€316) compared to roughly $44 (€36) 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
London to Essen train times
The table below shows live departures for London to Essen trains for today, Saturday, June 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9130 · 9459 | 12:04 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 7h11 | 8:15 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 9132 · 9459 | 1:01 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 6h14 | 8:15 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
| 9140 · 9471 | 3:04 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 6h11 | 10:15 PM Essen Hbf | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets London to Essen by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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
Jun 14
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Jun 20
Jun 20
Why should you book London to Essen trains with Omio?
Eurostar as well as Deutsche Bahn or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) offer trains services from London to Essen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London to Essen.
Why book with Omio vs Eurostar?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Eurostar, but also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from London to Essen.
- 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 Eurostar with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from London to Essen.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio, Trainline or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Deutsche Bahn or Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) to find the best option for your trip from London to Essen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from London to Essen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from London to Essen
United Kingdom
Germany
Trains from London to Essen run on average 5 times per day, taking around 4h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $145 (€118) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:14, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 306 miles (494 km) distance in 5h 11m.
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 $21 (€17)
Distance 306 miles (494 km) |
Average train duration 4h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $145 (€118) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 5h 11m |
First train 12:14 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 21 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
Flight from $21 (€17)
Train companies: Eurostar, Deutsche Bahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) from London to Essen trainsEurostar, Deutsche Bahn, Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) trains will get you between London and Essen from $21 (€17). 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
7h 11m
Cheapest Price
$320 (€260)
Eurostar frequency
10 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
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.
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.
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.
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
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 11m
Cheapest Price
$287 (€233)
Nederlandse Spoorwegen (NS) frequency
3 a day
Complete guide to Essen
Things to do in Essen
Discover the best of Essen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Essen trip today.
- Must visit
Ruhr Museum
The main regional museum of the Ruhr, inside the Zollverein Coal Mine complex, covering industrial, cultural, and natural history.
- Recommended
Red Dot Design Museum
A design museum in the former boiler house of Zollverein, displaying award-winning product and industrial design in a dramatic setting.
- Must visit
Baldeneysee
Large lake and recreation area popular for walking, cycling, sailing views, and relaxed Ruhr scenery.
- Recommended
Kettwiger Straße
The main pedestrian shopping street in central Essen, lively and practical for first-time visitors exploring downtown on foot.
- Recommended
Grugapark
A major urban park with gardens, open lawns, themed areas, and seasonal appeal, popular with locals and families.
Currywurst
Sliced Bratwurst with a spiced ketchup-style curry sauce, a Ruhrgebiet classic popular as quick comfort food.
- Gluten-free
Pfefferpotthast
A traditional Westphalian beef stew seasoned generously with black pepper, long associated with nearby Westphalia and hearty regional cooking.
- Gluten-free
Himmel und Erde
A Rhineland and Ruhr favorite combining mashed potatoes and applesauce, often served with fried onions and sausage.
Schote
Well-known fine dining restaurant in Essen, recognized for modern seasonal cuisine and an elegant, upscale atmosphere.
Südtiroler Stuben
Longstanding upscale restaurant with a strong reputation for classic European cuisine, polished service, and a formal setting.
Restaurant Hannappel
Established traditional-style venue in Essen-Horst, appreciated for regional German dishes and a warm, classic atmosphere.
Euro
Prices are moderate by German standards. Supermarkets and casual dining are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 8-15 for kebab, bakery, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- EUR 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 60-120 per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included, but rounding up is standard. In restaurants, add about 5-10% for good service; round up in taxis; small tips are optional in cafés and bars.
VRR App
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- EUR 3.60
- Day pass
- EUR 8.90
To the city center
Essen Hbf, Essen -> Essen Hbf, Essen
- Distance
- 0 km
- Travel time
- 0 min
- You can buy VRR tickets in the VRR App, at ticket machines, and at many stations; validate paper tickets if required before travel.
- Card payment is commonly accepted in ticket machines, but on-board payment on buses or trams may be limited, so buy your ticket in advance when possible.
FAQs: Trains from London to Essen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London to Essen 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 Essen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from London to Essen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $145 (€118), while the average price is around $390 (€316).
The train from London to Essen takes 5h 11m and runs 5 per day.
The distance by train from London to Essen is 306 miles (494 km).
The first train from London to Essen leaves at 12:14 AM.
The last train from London to Essen leaves at 11:00 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from London to Essen.
There is no direct train service currently available from London to Essen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London to Essen.
The train station in London that goes to Essen is London St Pancras International (STP), which connects to Essen Hbf.
The cheapest way to get from London to Essen is by flight, with a cost of around $21 (€17).
The train journey from London to Essen offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of the English countryside, the Channel Tunnel, and parts of Belgium and the Netherlands, though it's more functional than scenic compared to dedicated scenic routes.
A day trip from London to Essen is not feasible as the travel time is 5h 11m. However, there are 4 train trips available per day for this journey, covering a distance of 306 miles (494 km).
To explore Essen's key attractions, such as the Zollverein Coal Mine Industrial Complex, Museum Folkwang, and Grugapark, a stay of 2 to 3 days is generally sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from London to Essen.
Essen is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. 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 Essen include Cologne, Düsseldorf, Dortmund, Münster, Aachen.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from London to Essen among Omio's users.
Currently, UK citizens do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) for tourism or business in the Schengen Area. However, the new ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is scheduled to launch in late 2026. Once active, this digital travel authorization will be a mandatory pre-travel requirement for all UK passport holders.
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.
Germany uses the euro (€) as its currency. Travelers generally find it convenient to use cards, especially contactless payments, in cities and larger establishments. However, cash is still widely accepted and sometimes preferred in smaller shops, markets, and rural areas. Carrying some cash is recommended for flexibility.
In Essen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like public transport and popular tourist spots. Scams involving fake charity collectors and overpriced taxi rides have also been reported. It's advisable to use official transport services and stay alert in busy locations to 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 London to Essen
London
Essen
The major train station for departures in London is London St Pancras International. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at London St Pancras International for your trip from London to Essen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:45 - 22:00
- Sat: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sun: 08:00 - 22:15
Wifi
- Free, unlimited WiFi is available throughout the station.
Lockers
- Luggage lockers are located on the lower concourse close to the Eurostar line.
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Dining
- The Betjeman Arms
- AMT Coffee
- The Booking Office
- Carluccio’s
- Chop’d
- Greggs
Taxis
- Taxi: Midland Road: Currently the taxi pick up is located next to Thameslink station entrance. Soon a large covered queuing area will be available halfway along the lower concourse where passengers can wait for marshalled taxis. Pancras Road: There are two taxi drop off areas in Pancras Road. One is situated halfway along the old Victorian brick built Barlow shed and is convenient for Eurostar passengers. The second is situated close to the main entrance in the new part of the station and is suitable for passengers travelling within the UK.
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis can be located on Midland Road and Pancras Road
Accessibility
- Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators, complimentary assistance for passengers with reduced mobility and other needs.
WC
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: There are two accessible toilets in this station that are operated by a radar key. One is next to Eurostar arrivals. Toilet attendants are available too.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- The Standard
- Kimpton Fitzroy London
- Alhambra Hotel
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:45 - 22:00
- Sat: 06:00 - 21:00
- Sun: 08:00 - 22:15
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Within car park
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Located on the lower level in the main hall.
Public transit options for London St Pancras International
- Subway lines: Circle Line, Hammersmith & City Line, Metropolitan Line, Northern Line, Piccadilly Line, Victoria Line
- Train lines: Overground line, High Speed 1, Eurostar
- Bus lines: 326, 139
The major train station for arrivals in Essen is Essen Hbf. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Essen Hbf for your journey to Essen from London.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
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
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Kiepenkerl
- Cafe Extrablatt
- Tacos
Hotel
- Ambassador
- Gästearpartment Dahl
- WG-Hotel im Unperfekthaus
- Motel One
Essen Süd
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmDining
- Bollywood Express - Pizza & More
- Haus Wilmes
- Mana Mana
- Karawane
Hotel
- Webers
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
2 kmDining
- Pizzeria Don Camillo
- Lindos
- Zur Platte
- Arman Döner
Hotel
- McDreams
More options for your journey from London to Essen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Essen and London
Most popular train connections to Essen
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