Northampton to Cambridge train with West Midlands Trains

Thu, Jul 30
+ Add return
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
Great Northern
West Midlands Trains
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
Great Northern
West Midlands Trains
Regionale
2,000+ 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 Northampton to Cambridge

Showing times and prices for Jul 30

Cheapest price

$66

Average price

$95

Fastest journey

2 h 25 m

Average duration

2 h 42 m

Trains per day

3

Distance

68 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Northampton to Cambridge will cost around $95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $66.

Fast trains

Of the 3 trains that leave Northampton for Cambridge on Thu, Jul 30, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jul 30 the direct trains cover the 68 km distance in an average of 2 h 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 25 m .

On Thu, Jul 30 the slowest trains will take 2 h 51 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.

  • West Midlands Trains
    10:18 AM2h25
    Northampton
    12:43 PMCambridge
    $661One-way
    0 transfers
  • Thameslink
    6:50 AM2h49
    Northampton
    9:39 AMCambridge
    $1101One-way
    0 transfers
  • West Midlands Trains
    9:48 AM2h51
    Northampton
    12:39 PMCambridge
    $1111One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Northampton to Cambridge

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Northampton to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 6m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $15, and a train costs an average of $52.

Distance: 42 miles (68 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$94

Average price

$22

Average price

Cheapest

$20

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 36m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 6m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 47m

Average total duration

3h 17m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 11m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

West Midlands Trains

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Northampton to Cambridge is a bus with an average price of $22 (€18).

This is compared to other travel options from Northampton to Cambridge:

A bus is $72 (€60) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Northampton to Cambridge costing on average $94 (€78).

The fastest way to travel from Northampton to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 2h 6m.

Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:

Bus takes on average 3h 17m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Northampton and Cambridge including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Northampton to Cambridge among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $94 (€78) compared to roughly $20 (€16) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-74.45 (€-61.37). The journey takes 2h 6m versus 1h 11m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Northampton to Cambridge train times

The table below shows live departures for Northampton to Cambridge trains for tomorrow, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Thameslink6:50 AM Northampton
2h49
9:39 AM Cambridge0 transfersDirect
West Midlands Trains9:48 AM Northampton
2h51
12:39 PM Cambridge0 transfersDirect
West Midlands Trains10:18 AM Northampton
2h25
12:43 PM Cambridge0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Northampton to Cambridge 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.

Thu
Jul 30
Fri
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05

Why should you book Northampton to Cambridge trains with Omio?

West Midlands Trains as well as Avanti West Coast, Great Northern, West Midlands Trains and more offer trains services from Northampton to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Northampton to Cambridge.

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, Great Northern or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Northampton to Cambridge.
  • 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 Northampton to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Great Northern or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Northampton to Cambridge.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Northampton to Cambridge.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Northampton to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Northampton to Cambridge run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 6m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $52 (€43) but you can travel from only $15 (€12) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:14, the last at 23:22. The fastest train covers the 42 miles (68 km) distance in 2h 25m.

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 $15 (€12)
Distance
42 miles (68 km)
Average train duration
2h 6m
Cheapest ticket price
$52 (€43)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 25m
First train
4:14 AM
Last train
11:22 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
2 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
Bus from $15 (€12)

Train companies: West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, Great Northern from Northampton to Cambridge trainsWest Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, Great Northern trains will get you between Northampton and Cambridge from $15 (€12). 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 25m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€43)
West Midlands Trains frequency
6 a day
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
6h 22m
Cheapest Price
$148 (€122)
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 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
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

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 Duration
3h 19m
Cheapest Price
$72 (€59)
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

Complete guide to Cambridge

Things to do in Cambridge

Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.

  • Must visit

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.

  • Recommended

Scott Polar Research Institute Museum

Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.

  • Recommended

Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology

Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Northampton to Cambridge

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Northampton to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $52 (€43), while the average price is around $94 (€78).
The train from Northampton to Cambridge takes 2h 25m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Northampton to Cambridge is 42 miles (68 km).
The first train from Northampton to Cambridge leaves at 4:14 AM.
The last train from Northampton to Cambridge leaves at 11:22 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Northampton to Cambridge.
There is no direct train service currently available from Northampton to Cambridge.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Northampton to Cambridge.
The train station in Northampton that goes to Cambridge is Northampton station (NMP), which connects to Cambridge station (CBG).
The cheapest way to get from Northampton to Cambridge is by bus, with a cost of around $15 (€12).
The train journey from Northampton to Cambridge offers a mix of urban and rural views, with stretches of picturesque English countryside, including fields and rivers, but it is not widely regarded as exceptionally scenic compared to other UK train routes.
A day trip from Northampton to Cambridge is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 25m. However, there are 5 trips available per day by train, covering a distance of 42 miles (68 km).
In Cambridge, you can enjoy punting on the River Cam for scenic views, visit the interactive Cambridge Science Centre, explore the historic Market Square, or attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre. Discover the city's rich history on a guided walking tour. Don't miss the stunning King's College Chapel, the art-filled Fitzwilliam Museum, the picturesque Backs, the historic Trinity College, and the tranquil Cambridge University Botanic Garden.
For a fulfilling experience in Cambridge, spending two to three days is ideal to explore its historic colleges, museums, and the picturesque River Cam.
Yes, you can take the train from Northampton to Cambridge.
Since neither Northampton nor Cambridge 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 Cambridge include London, Stevenage, Hitchin, Peterborough, Letchworth Garden City.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Northampton to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help 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 Northampton to Cambridge

Most Northampton to Cambridge trains use the Northampton to Cambridge station pair, with some services arriving at Cambridge North. Use this guide to compare Northampton and Cambridge train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Northampton
Arrival train stations in Cambridge

Which Northampton station do trains to Cambridge leave from?

Trains from Northampton to Cambridge leave from Northampton. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Northampton city centre at Northampton station, Black Lion Hill, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1SP.
NorthamptonNorthampton station, Black Lion Hill, Northampton, Northamptonshire, NN1 1SP+44 3301235247ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Northampton from Northampton city centre

Northampton is 2 km from Northampton city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus8, 8A · 14m · $2 · every ~8 min

Northampton train station facilities and services

Northampton has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Northampton.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Northampton.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Northampton. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Northampton: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Northampton: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Northampton: 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 taxis: Accessible taxis are available, 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.

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