- Must visit
Grosvenor Museum
An award-winning medical history attraction exploring disease, cures, and public health in a playful way. It is unusual, family-friendly, and increasingly popular.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from York to Chester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 01
Cheapest price on Sep 01
$12
Average ticket price on Sep 01
$31
Fastest journey on Sep 01
2 h 46 m
Average journey duration on Sep 01
3 h 7 m
Trains on Sep 01
7
Distance
147 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from York to Chester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from York to Chester will cost around $31 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $12.
Fast trains
On Tue, Sep 01, we found 7 trains from York to Chester, including 7 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 01 the direct trains cover the 147 km distance in an average of 3 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 46 m .
On Tue, Sep 01 the slowest trains will take 3 h 39 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.
9:14 AM3h46York1:00 PMChester$121One-way0 transfers- 8:45 AM4h16York1:01 PMChester$231One-way0 transfers
8:04 AM2h47York10:51 AMChester$261One-way0 transfers- 4:32 AM3h09York7:41 AMChester$291One-way0 transfers
- 7:22 AM3h39York11:01 AMChester$361One-way0 transfers
- 6:03 AM2h46York8:49 AMChester$431One-way0 transfers
- 8:04 AM2h47York10:51 AMChester$261One-way0 transfers
- 4:32 AM3h09York7:41 AMChester$291One-way0 transfers
- 6:17 AM3h15York9:32 AMChester$491One-way0 transfers
- 7:22 AM3h39York11:01 AMChester$361One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for York to Chester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from York to Chester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $22 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 25m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, while a train costs an average of $41.
Distance: 91 miles (147 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$41 Average price | $22 Average price Cheapest | $38 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 25m Average total duration Fastest 2h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 3m Average total duration 5h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 10m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from York to Chester is a bus with an average price of $22.
This is compared to other travel options from York to Chester:
A bus is $19 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from York to Chester costing on average $41.
The fastest way to travel from York to Chester is by train with an average journey time of 2h 55m.
Other travel options to Chester take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between York and Chester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from York to Chester 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 $41 compared to roughly $38 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-2.17. The journey takes 2h 55m versus 2h 10m 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
York to Chester train times
The table below shows live departures for York to Chester trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:32 AM York | 3h09 | 7:41 AM Chester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:03 AM York | 2h46 | 8:49 AM Chester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:17 AM York | 3h15 | 9:32 AM Chester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:22 AM York | 3h39 | 11:01 AM Chester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:04 AM York | 2h47 | 10:51 AM Chester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:45 AM York | 4h16 | 1:01 PM Chester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:14 AM York | 3h46 | 1:00 PM Chester | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets York to Chester 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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Sep 01
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Why should you book York to Chester trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as Northern Rail or TransPennine Express offer trains services from York to Chester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from York to Chester.
Why book with Omio vs Transpennine Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transpennine Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from York to Chester.
- 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 Transpennine Express with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from York to Chester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from York to Chester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from York to Chester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from York to Chester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from York to Chester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $12 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:58, the last at 23:45. The fastest train covers the 91 miles (147 km) distance in 2h 42m.
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
Distance 91 miles (147 km) |
Average train duration 2h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 2h 42m |
First train 12:58 AM |
Last train 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 49 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
Train companies: Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, TransPennine Express from York to Chester trainsTranspennine Express, Northern Rail, TransPennine Express trains will get you between York and Chester from $12. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transpennine Express Duration
2h 45m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$27
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Rail Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
$12
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at 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 on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average TransPennine Express Duration
2h 37m
Cheapest TransPennine Express Price
$62
TransPennine Express frequency
25 a day
Complete guide to Chester
Things to do in Chester
Discover the best of Chester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chester trip today.
- Recommended
Cheshire Military Museum
A major museum on Roman Chester with archaeology, reconstructed rooms, and hands-on displays. It is the best place to understand the city’s ancient roots.
- Recommended
Sick to Death
A richly furnished Georgian townhouse showing domestic life across centuries. Costumed interpretation and period interiors make it engaging and memorable.
- Must visit
The Groves
A wide green expanse by the River Dee, popular for walks, picnics, and events. It offers classic views of the water and easy access to central sights.
- Must visit
Chester Walls Walk
A scenic trail following the old city defences with frequent viewpoints and easy access to landmarks. It is one of the best ways to see Chester efficiently.
- Recommended
Eastgate Street
One of Chester’s main shopping streets, lined with historic buildings and Rows. It captures the city’s distinctive mix of heritage and everyday life.
- Vegetarian
Chester Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and spice, long linked to Chester and nearby Cheshire baking traditions.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cheshire Cheese
Crumbly, creamy cow's milk cheese from Cheshire, one of England's oldest named cheeses and a staple of local farming.
- Vegetarian
Cheshire Rarebit
Traditional Cheshire cheese melted with beer, mustard and seasoning on toast; a classic pub and supper dish in the region.
Joseph Benjamin
Established city-centre bistro serving modern British food with local produce in a relaxed, smart setting.
Covino
Popular independent restaurant focused on seasonal small plates, natural wines and creative modern cooking.
The Chester Grosvenor
Refined fine dining by chef Simon Radley at The Chester Grosvenor, known for polished tasting menus and formal service.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining cost less than London, but tourist areas raise prices. Buses are reasonable; central sights are walkable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% at restaurants for good service. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Chester Railway Station -> Chester City Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Chester. You can usually tap to buy a single or day ticket from the driver.
- Chester city centre is walkable from Chester Railway Station, but buses are useful for longer trips and outer areas.
FAQs: Trains from York to Chester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from York to Chester 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 Chester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from York to Chester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $12, while the average price is around $41.
The train from York to Chester takes 2h 42m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from York to Chester leaves at 12:58 AM.
The distance by train from York to Chester is 91 miles (147 km).
The last train from York to Chester leaves at 11:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from York to Chester.
There is no direct train service currently available from York to Chester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from York to Chester.
The train station in York that goes to Chester is York station (YRK), which connects to Chester station (CTR).
The cheapest way to get from York to Chester is by train, with a cost of around $12.
The train journey from York to Chester offers varied scenery, including views of rolling countryside, historic towns, and charming villages, making it a pleasant and picturesque route.
A day trip from York to Chester is not feasible as the travel time is 2h 42m, although there are 8 trains available per day for this 91 miles (147 km) journey.
In Chester, you can explore Chester Zoo, one of the UK's largest zoos, and the Grosvenor Museum with its local history exhibits. Enjoy the scenic River Dee with a walk or boat trip. Visit Storyhouse for theatre, cinema, and library experiences. Discover military history at the Cheshire Military Museum. Don't miss Chester Cathedral's stunning architecture, the Chester Roman Amphitheatre, the medieval Chester City Walls, the iconic Eastgate Clock, and The Rows for unique shopping experiences.
To fully experience Chester, two to three days are ideal. This allows time to explore its historic attractions, such as the Roman walls, Chester Cathedral, and the historic Rows, as well as enjoy its shops and dining options.
Yes, you can take the train from York to Chester.
Since neither York nor Chester 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 Chester include Manchester, Liverpool, Shrewsbury, Crewe, Stockport.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from York to Chester 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 Chester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and near popular attractions. Be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed taxis or pre-booked transportation. Scams involving overpriced goods or services can occur in busy tourist spots, so it's advisable to agree on prices beforehand and be vigilant when approached by street vendors.
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 York to Chester
Most York to Chester trains use the York to Chester station pair. Use this guide to compare York and Chester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in York
Arrival train stations in Chester
Which York station do trains to Chester leave from?
Trains from York to Chester leave from York. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from York city centre at York station, Station Road, York, North Yorkshire, YO24 1AB.
YorkYork station, Station Road, York, North Yorkshire, YO24 1AB+44 800 200 6060
City-centre transport
Getting to York from York city centre
BusY12, Y14, 15, X15 · 4m · $4 · every ~4 min
37 · 7m
Cs · 28m · $5 · every ~5 min
York train station facilities and services
York has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at York.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at York. ATMs are available at York.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at York.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at York: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at York: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at York: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: No advance booking is required but it will reduce the waiting time for a wheelchair access Taxi, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible machines are available on the main concourse, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Chester station do trains from York arrive at?
Trains from York to Chester arrive at Chester. Chester is 0 miles (1 km) from Chester city centre.
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester from Chester city centre
Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus100, 16 · 4m · $5 · every ~2 min
Chester train station facilities and services
Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Chester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, 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.
Most popular train connections from York
More options for your journey from York to Chester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chester and York
Most popular train connections to Chester
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