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The cheapest and fastest trains from Watford to Derby
Showing times and prices for May 31
Cheapest price
$82
Average price
$157
Fastest journey
2 h 8 m
Average duration
2 h 46 m
Trains per day
17
Distance
159 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Watford to Derby is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Watford to Derby will cost around $157 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $82.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Watford to Derby without transferring at least once.
W70536+
C04191+
Tube from London Euston to London St Pancras International8:19 AM3h06Watford Junction (WFJ)11:25 AMDerby station (DBY)$821One-way2 transfers- W70612+C21138+Tube from London Euston to London St Pancras International9:24 AM3h07Watford Junction (WFJ)12:31 PMDerby station (DBY)$961One-way2 transfers
- C17907+
G0094310:10 AM3h20Watford Junction (WFJ)1:30 PMDerby station (DBY)$1281One-way1 transfer 
LO396000+C17843+G0089810:29 AM4h00Watford High Street (WFH)2:29 PMDerby station (DBY)$1281One-way2 transfers- L13343 · C17843+G0089810:41 AM3h48Bushey (BSH)2:29 PMDerby station (DBY)$1281One-way2 transfers
W33353+G010669:32 AM2h08Watford Junction (WFJ)11:40 AMDerby station (DBY)$2861One-way1 transfer- LO396300+W33353+G010668:54 AM2h46Watford High Street (WFH)11:40 AMDerby station (DBY)$2861One-way2 transfers
- LO396300+W33353+G010668:50 AM2h50Bushey (BSH)11:40 AMDerby station (DBY)$2861One-way2 transfers
- W70536+C04191+Tube from London Euston to London St Pancras International8:22 AM3h03Bushey (BSH)11:25 AMDerby station (DBY)$1411One-way2 transfers
- W70612+C21138+Tube from London Euston to London St Pancras International9:27 AM3h04Bushey (BSH)12:31 PMDerby station (DBY)$1411One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Watford to Derby
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Watford to Derby among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $20, and a train costs an average of $46.
Distance: 98 miles (159 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$90 Average price | $39 Average price Cheapest | $42 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 16m Average total duration Fastest 1h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 58m Average total duration 4h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Watford to Derby is a bus with an average price of $39 (€31).
This is compared to other travel options from Watford to Derby:
A bus is $51 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Watford to Derby costing on average $90 (€72).
The fastest way to travel from Watford to Derby is by train with an average journey time of 1h 46m.
Other travel options to Derby take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Watford and Derby including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Watford to Derby 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 15m sooner (1h 46m by train vs 2h 1m by car). Tickets start at around $90 (€72) compared to roughly $42 (€33) 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
Watford to Derby train times
The table below shows live departures for Watford to Derby trains for today, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:38 PM Watford | 2h13 | 7:51 PM Derby | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, May 31 | |||||
| LO399800+W70536+Tube from London Euston to London St Pancras International+C04191 | 8:05 AM Watford High Street (WFH) | 3h20 | 11:25 AM Derby station (DBY) | 3 transfers | |
| W70536+Tube from London Euston to London St Pancras International+C04191 | 8:19 AM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 3h06 | 11:25 AM Derby station (DBY) | 2 transfers | |
| W70536+Tube from London Euston to London St Pancras International+C04191 | 8:22 AM Bushey (BSH) | 3h03 | 11:25 AM Derby station (DBY) | 2 transfers | |
| W33353+G01066+LO396300 | 8:50 AM Bushey (BSH) | 2h50 | 11:40 AM Derby station (DBY) | 2 transfers | |
| LO396300+W33353+G01066 | 8:54 AM Watford High Street (WFH) | 2h46 | 11:40 AM Derby station (DBY) | 2 transfers | |
| W70612+Tube from London Euston to London St Pancras International+C21138+LO399600 | 9:05 AM Watford High Street (WFH) | 3h26 | 12:31 PM Derby station (DBY) | 3 transfers | |
| C21138+Tube from London Euston to London St Pancras International+W70612 | 9:24 AM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 3h07 | 12:31 PM Derby station (DBY) | 2 transfers | |
| C21138+Tube from London Euston to London St Pancras International+W70612 | 9:27 AM Bushey (BSH) | 3h04 | 12:31 PM Derby station (DBY) | 2 transfers | |
| W33353+G01066 | 9:32 AM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 2h08 | 11:40 AM Derby station (DBY) | 1 transfer | |
| C17907+G00943+LO396100 | 9:50 AM Bushey (BSH) | 3h40 | 1:30 PM Derby station (DBY) | 2 transfers | |
| C17907+G00943+LO396100 | 9:54 AM Watford High Street (WFH) | 3h36 | 1:30 PM Derby station (DBY) | 2 transfers | |
| W70947+Tube from London Euston to London St Pancras International+LO399400+W70570 | 10:06 AM Watford High Street (WFH) | 3h38 | 1:44 PM Derby station (DBY) | 3 transfers | |
| C17907+G00943 | 10:10 AM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 3h20 | 1:30 PM Derby station (DBY) | 1 transfer | |
| W70570+Tube from London Euston to London St Pancras International+W70947 | 10:23 AM Watford Junction (WFJ) | 3h21 | 1:44 PM Derby station (DBY) | 2 transfers | |
| W70570+Tube from London Euston to London St Pancras International+W70947 | 10:26 AM Bushey (BSH) | 3h18 | 1:44 PM Derby station (DBY) | 2 transfers | |
| LO396000+C17843+G00898 | 10:29 AM Watford High Street (WFH) | 4h00 | 2:29 PM Derby station (DBY) | 2 transfers | |
| L13343 · C17843+G00898 | 10:41 AM Bushey (BSH) | 3h48 | 2:29 PM Derby station (DBY) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Watford to Derby 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.
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May 31
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Why should you book Watford to Derby trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains, West Midlands Trains and more offer trains services from Watford to Derby.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Watford to Derby.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Watford to Derby.
- 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Watford to Derby.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Watford to Derby.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Watford to Derby.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Watford to Derby
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Watford to Derby run on average 19 times per day, taking around 1h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€37) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 03:41, the last at 22:20. The fastest train covers the 98 miles (159 km) distance in 2h 3m.
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 $20 (€16)
Distance 98 miles (159 km) |
Average train duration 1h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€37) |
Trains per day 19 |
Fastest train 2h 3m |
First train 3:41 AM |
Last train 10:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 4 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 $20 (€16)
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains from Watford to Derby trainsAvanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Watford and Derby from $20 (€16). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
2h 15m
Cheapest Price
$128 (€103)
Avanti West Coast frequency
16 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
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 Duration
2h 25m
Cheapest Price
$70 (€56)
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
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 3m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€37)
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
FAQs: Trains from Watford to Derby
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Watford to Derby 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 Derby, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Watford to Derby can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46 (€37), while the average price is around $90 (€72).
The train from Watford to Derby takes 2h 3m and runs 19 per day.
The first train from Watford to Derby leaves at 3:41 AM.
The distance by train from Watford to Derby is 98 miles (159 km).
The last train from Watford to Derby leaves at 10:20 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Watford to Derby.
There is no direct train service currently available from Watford to Derby.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Watford to Derby.
The train station in Watford that goes to Derby is Watford Junction (WFJ), which connects to Derby station (DBY).
The cheapest way to get from Watford to Derby is by bus, with a cost of around $20 (€16).
The train journey from Watford to Derby offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of towns, countryside, and occasional glimpses of the River Trent, providing a moderately scenic experience.
A day trip from Watford to Derby may not be feasible as the journey takes 2h 3m. However, there are 19 train trips available per day, covering a distance of 98 miles (159 km).
For a fulfilling visit, spending 2 to 3 days in Derby allows you to explore its key attractions such as the Derby Museum and Art Gallery, Derby Cathedral, and the nearby Peak District.
Yes, you can take the train from Watford to Derby.
Since neither Watford nor Derby 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 Derby include Leicester, Nottingham, Sheffield, Birmingham, Burton-on-Trent.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Watford to Derby 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 Derby, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and public transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and counterfeit tickets for events or attractions. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, purchase tickets from official vendors, and stay vigilant in crowded places 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 Watford to Derby
Watford
Derby
The major train station for departures in Watford is Watford Junction. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Watford Junction for your trip from Watford to Derby.
Amenities at train station
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:30 - 23:00 Saturday 05:30 - 23:00 Sunday 06:30 - 22:30 Booking Office and Travel Centre
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- 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 public telephones: Public telephones are accessible on platform 6
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket Vending Machines are located in the Booking Hall.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 6. The toilet facilities are available: Monday - Sunday 04:00-23:00. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key. A RADAR key is available from station staff upon request. The National key toilet facilities are available: Monday - Saturday 04:00-14:00 and Sunday 06:00-14:00.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Station forecourt
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Watford Junction
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: In the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from bay 1 of the bus station at the side of the railway station.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 07:30 - 10:00 Saturday 09:30 - 12:15
Shopping
- Type of shops available: High Street shops located nearby
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Level access to ticket office from street. Single island platform, accessible from entrance by staircase only
- Accessible taxis: Contact taxi operator directly
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Watford High Street
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop A in Lower High Street for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop B in Lower High Street for southbound services to Harrow & Wealdstone
- Metro: Watford London Underground station (Metropolitan line) is approximately 34 minutes' walk away
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:45 - 21:00 Saturday 08:15 - 15:15 Sunday 09:15 - 16:30
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent
Parking
- Car Park: Bushey Station
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Accessibility category C. This station does not have step-free access
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible taxis: contact taxi operator directly
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: behind the Ticket Office
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
- Helpline Contact: 0343 222 1234
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Bushey
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Use Bus stop A in Pinner Road for northbound services to Watford Junction Use Bus stop A in Pinner Road for southbound services to Harrow & Wealdstone
The major train station for arrivals in Derby is Derby. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Derby for your journey to Derby from Watford.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike Parking
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 04:55 - 22:45 Saturday 04:55 - 22:45 Sunday 06:20 - 23:00
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A step free station. This station has step free access. There are lifts to all platforms. There is a subway to platforms 2,3,4 and 5. Platforms 6 and 7 are accessed by lift only. This station has tactile paving at the edges of all platforms and at the foot and top of stairwells.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1, Platform 2/3 and Platform 4/6. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1, Platform 2/3 and Platform 4/6; these toilets are operated by a radar key. The radar key is available from Customer Reception upon request.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Located in North Car Park
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Derby
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: From the rear of the station, at the Pride Park exit
Most popular train connections from Watford
More options for your journey from Watford to Derby
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Derby and Watford
Most popular train connections to Derby
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