- Must visit
Museum Hof van Busleyden
Mechelen’s flagship city museum in a Renaissance palace, presenting art, humanism, and Burgundian history in an impressive setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London to Mechelen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 03
Cheapest price on Sep 03
$157
Average ticket price on Sep 03
$229
Fastest journey on Sep 03
2 h 1 m
Average journey duration on Sep 03
2 h 24 m
Trains on Sep 03
2
Distance
325 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London to Mechelen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from London to Mechelen will cost around $229 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $157.
Fast trains
On Thu, Sep 03, we found 2 trains from London to Mechelen, including 2 direct services.
On Thu, Sep 03 the direct trains cover the 325 km distance in an average of 2 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 1 m .
On Thu, Sep 03 the slowest trains will take 2 h 46 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.
7:04 AM2h01London9:05 AMMechelen$1571One-way0 transfers- 7:16 AM2h46London10:02 AMMechelen$3011One-way0 transfers
- 7:04 AM2h01London9:05 AMMechelen$1571One-way0 transfers
- 7:16 AM2h46London10:02 AMMechelen$3011One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for London to Mechelen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from London to Mechelen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $113 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 10m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $113, while a flight costs an average of $658.
Distance: 201 miles (325 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$331 Average price | $658 Average price | $113 Average price Cheapest | $45 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 10m Average total duration Fastest 2h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 7m Average total duration 5h 7m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 11h 8m Average total duration 10h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
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 |
The cheapest way to travel from London to Mechelen is a bus with an average price of $113 (€92).
This is compared to other travel options from London to Mechelen:
A bus is $217 (€176) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London to Mechelen costing on average $331 (€268).
A bus is $545 (€442) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from London to Mechelen costing on average $658 (€533).
The fastest way to travel from London to Mechelen is by train with an average journey time of 2h 40m.
Other travel options to Mechelen take longer:
Flight takes on average 5h 7m.
Bus takes on average 10h 38m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between London and Mechelen including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London to Mechelen 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 48m sooner (2h 40m by train vs 5h 28m by car). Tickets start at around $331 (€268) compared to roughly $45 (€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 Mechelen train times
The table below shows live departures for London to Mechelen trains for today, Wednesday, September 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
9106+ 3408 | 6:16 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h46 | 10:02 AM Mechelen station | 1 transfer | |
| 9106+1958 | 6:16 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h04 | 10:20 AM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 1 transfer | |
| 9110+3409 | 7:01 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h01 | 11:02 AM Mechelen station | 1 transfer | |
| 9110+1959 | 7:01 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h19 | 11:20 AM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 1 transfer | |
| 9114+1960 | 8:16 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h04 | 12:20 PM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 1 transfer | |
| 9114+3410 | 8:16 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h46 | 12:02 PM Mechelen station | 1 transfer | |
| 9116+3411 | 9:01 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h01 | 1:02 PM Mechelen station | 1 transfer | |
| 9116+1961 | 9:01 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h19 | 1:20 PM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 1 transfer | |
| 9126+3413 | 11:04 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h58 | 3:02 PM Mechelen station | 1 transfer | |
| 9126+1963 | 11:04 AM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h16 | 3:20 PM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 1 transfer | |
| 9132+1965 | 1:01 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h19 | 5:20 PM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 1 transfer | |
| 9132+3415 | 1:01 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h01 | 5:02 PM Mechelen station | 1 transfer | |
| 9140+3417 | 3:04 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h58 | 7:02 PM Mechelen station | 1 transfer | |
| 9140+1967 | 3:04 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h16 | 7:20 PM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 1 transfer | |
| 9148+1969 | 5:04 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h16 | 9:20 PM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 1 transfer | |
| 9148+3419 | 5:04 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h58 | 9:02 PM Mechelen station | 1 transfer | |
| 9152+3420 | 6:04 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h58 | 10:02 PM Mechelen station | 1 transfer | |
| 9152+1970 | 6:04 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 3h16 | 10:20 PM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 1 transfer | |
| 9158+3122 | 7:34 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h52 | 11:26 PM Mechelen station | 1 transfer | |
| 9158+3122 | 7:34 PM London St Pancras International (STP) | 2h58 | 11:32 PM Mechelen-Nekkerspoel | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets London to Mechelen 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.
Thu
Sep 03
Sep 03
Fri
Sep 04
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Sep 07
Tue
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Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Sep 09
Why should you book London to Mechelen trains with Omio?
Eurostar operates all trains services from London to Mechelen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London to Mechelen.
Why book with Omio vs Eurostar?
- 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 Mechelen.
Why book with Omio over Rome2rio?
- 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 Mechelen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from London to Mechelen
United Kingdom
Belgium
Trains from London to Mechelen run on average 15 times per day, taking around 2h 40m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $183 (€149) but you can travel from only $36 (€29) by flight.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:01, the last at 21:02. The fastest train covers the 201 miles (325 km) distance in 1h 57m.
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 $36 (€29)
Distance 201 miles (325 km) |
Average train duration 2h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $183 (€149) |
Trains per day 15 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 1h 57m |
First train 6:01 AM |
Last train 9:02 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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 $36 (€29)
Train companies: Eurostar from London to Mechelen trainsEurostar trains will get you between London and Mechelen from $36 (€29). 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 Eurostar Duration
1h 57m
Cheapest Eurostar Price
$183 (€149)
Eurostar frequency
29 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
Complete guide to Mechelen
Things to do in Mechelen
Discover the best of Mechelen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Mechelen trip today.
- Must visit
Kazerne Dossin
A powerful memorial museum about the Holocaust and human rights, internationally respected for its thoughtful permanent exhibition.
- Recommended
Clock and Watch Museum
Interactive museum on clocks, carillons, and bell-ringing traditions, ideal for understanding Mechelen’s renowned musical heritage.
- Must visit
Grote Markt
Mechelen’s central square, framed by monumental buildings and lively terraces, is the natural starting point for exploring the old town.
- Must visit
Grand Beguinage
A peaceful UNESCO-listed quarter of cobbled lanes, small houses, and gardens that preserves the atmosphere of historic beguine life.
- Must visit
Skywalk
A scenic tower-top viewpoint with sweeping views over the city and beyond, especially rewarding in clear weather.
- Vegetarian
Gouden Carolus Classic
A dark, malty Belgian strong ale brewed in Mechelen since the 15th century. It is the city’s signature beer and closely tied to local identity.
- Vegetarian
Gouden Carolus Christmas
A richer, spiced Christmas version of Gouden Carolus, released seasonally. It is famous among Belgian beer lovers and strongly linked to Mechelen’s brewery tradition.
- Vegetarian
Maneblusser
A pale, hoppy Belgian ale from Het Anker in Mechelen. It reflects the city’s long brewing heritage and is a staple for visitors exploring local beers.
Tinèlle
Refined fine dining in a historic setting, known for modern Belgian cuisine and polished service. A destination restaurant for special occasions.
Cosma Foodhouse
Well-regarded restaurant focused on seasonal Belgian cuisine with a warm, contemporary atmosphere. Good choice for a polished dinner in Mechelen.
Brasserie Het Anker
Historic brewery restaurant at Het Anker, best for Gouden Carolus beers and hearty Flemish dishes in a traditional, lively atmosphere.
Euro (€)
Moderate for Belgium: hotels and dining are mid-priced, while local transit is reasonable. Cheaper than Brussels in many cases, but not a budget destination.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- €8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- €20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- €60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- €3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Round up or leave 5-10% for great restaurant service. Taxis can be rounded up. Small change for cafes is appreciated.
De Lijn
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- €2.50
- Day pass
- €7.50
To the city center
Mechelen Station -> Grote Markt, Mechelen
- Distance
- 1.4 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can pay contactless on De Lijn buses and trams; the contactless fare is the standard single fare.
- Mechelen local buses are operated by De Lijn. Buy tickets in the De Lijn app or use contactless onboard to avoid higher paper ticket costs.
FAQs: Trains from London to Mechelen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London to Mechelen 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 Mechelen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from London to Mechelen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $183 (€149), while the average price is around $331 (€268).
The train from London to Mechelen takes 1h 57m and runs 15 per day.
The first train from London to Mechelen leaves at 6:01 AM.
The distance by train from London to Mechelen is 201 miles (325 km).
The last train from London to Mechelen leaves at 9:02 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from London to Mechelen.
There is no direct train service currently available from London to Mechelen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London to Mechelen.
The train station in London that goes to Mechelen is London St Pancras International (STP), which connects to Mechelen station.
The cheapest way to get from London to Mechelen is by flight, with a cost of around $36 (€29).
The train journey from London to Mechelen offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with views of the English countryside, the Channel Tunnel, and the picturesque landscapes of Belgium, making it a pleasant and varied visual experience.
A day trip from London to Mechelen is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 57m and the distance is 201 miles (325 km). However, there are 6 train trips available per day.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Mechelen's historical sites, museums, and local cuisine, while also enjoying its charming atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from London to Mechelen.
Mechelen 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 Mechelen include Brussels, Antwerp, Rotterdam, Paris, Breda.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from London to Mechelen 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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Mechelen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like train stations and popular tourist spots. Scams involving overpriced taxi fares or unauthorized ticket sellers can also occur. Staying vigilant in busy places and using official transportation services 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 London to Mechelen
Most London to Mechelen trains use the London St Pancras International to Mechelen station pair, with some services arriving at Bruxelles-Midi. Use this guide to compare London and Mechelen 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 Mechelen
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 · $2 · every ~33 min
390 · 48m · $2 · every ~27 min
SubwayPiccadilly · 11m · $2 · 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 Mechelen station do trains from London arrive at?
Trains from London to Mechelen most often arrive at Mechelen. Some services arrive at Bruxelles-Midi, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Mechelen arrival station.
MechelenStationsstraat 2800, Mechelen, Belgium+32 15 29 80 00
City-centre transport
Getting to Mechelen from Mechelen city centre
Mechelen is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1, 1a · 3m · $4 · every ~12 min
Mechelen train station facilities and services
Mechelen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurant De Graspoort, Il Cardinale
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Mechelen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Mechelen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mechelen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mechelen: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Mechelen: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include NH Mechelen, Hotel Elisabeth, Martin's Patershof.
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel2800 Mechelen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Mechelen-Nekkerspoel from Mechelen city centre
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel is 1 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus1 · 8m · $4 · every ~5 min
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel train station facilities and services
Mechelen-Nekkerspoel has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, ATM, WC, Hotel, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Mechelen-Nekkerspoel: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Muizen2812 Mechelen, Belgium
City-centre transport
Getting to Muizen from Mechelen city centre
Muizen is 3 km from Mechelen city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainS7, L, P · 5m · $1 · every ~4 min
BusBus · 8m
Muizen train station facilities and services
Muizen has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, WC, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Muizen.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Muizen: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Muizen: Bike Parking.
More options for your journey from London to Mechelen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Mechelen and London
Most popular train connections to Mechelen
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