Trains to London

The first and last train times to London depend on your departure location and the day of the week. To ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information, use our online journey planner to check live train schedules to London.

Generally, the first trains into London arrive at around 06:00 in the morning. The last trains typically reach London between 23:00 and midnight.

Service times may differ on weekends and Bank Holidays, with the first trains often starting later in the morning and the last trains finishing earlier in the evening. Be sure to check for any timetable adjustments during these periods for your specific journey.

There are plenty of reasons why catching the train to London is the best choice compared to other travel options.

• Direct Routes & Frequent Services: Travel to London with ease via direct train routes from major cities like Sheffield, Nottingham, Derby, and Leicester. With frequent services running throughout the day, you can find a departure time that perfectly fits your schedule.
• Speed & Efficiency: Trains offer faster journey times to London compared to driving, especially during peak hours when traffic can cause significant delays.
• Comfort: Relax in spacious seating with more legroom than most other travel modes. Many trains also offer on-board amenities like WiFi, allowing you to work or unwind during your journey.
• Cost-effective: With a range of discounts and deals available, train travel to London can be surprisingly cheap. Plus, you won’t need to worry about extra costs like parking fees, fuel, or toll charges.
• Eco-friendly: Choosing to travel by train is a greener option, producing less carbon emissions than driving or flying, and helping to reduce your environmental impact.
• Accessibility: London’s train stations, including Kings Cross, St Pancras, and Paddington, are centrally located, making it easy to explore the city as soon as you arrive.

After arriving in London St Pancras by train, you'll find plenty of transport links to help you get around the city with ease.

• Tube and Rail Services: London's Underground, or "Tube," is one of the most efficient and widely used public transport systems in the world, connecting all corners of the city. Complemented by Overground trains, DLR (Docklands Light Railway), and the Elizabeth Line, the rail network makes navigating London quick and easy.
• Bus Network: London boasts one of the most extensive bus networks in the world, operated primarily by Transport for London (TfL). Buses in London are frequent and cover nearly every corner of the city, offering a reliable and cost-effective mode of transport. The iconic red double-decker buses are a staple of the city's streets, providing not just efficient travel but also a quintessential London experience.
• Cycling Routes: With its growing network of cycle lanes and paths, London is increasingly becoming a cyclist-friendly city. Initiatives such as Santander Cycles, also known as "Boris Bikes," make renting a bike simple and affordable for short trips. Routes like the Cycle Superhighways and Quietways ensure safer cycling options for both commuters and leisure riders.
• Walking: London is a vibrant city that is best explored on foot. From the historic streets of Westminster to the scenic Thames Path, there is an abundance of walking-friendly zones. Many districts, such as Soho or Covent Garden, are pedestrian-centric, allowing visitors to enjoy the sights without the interference of heavy traffic.
• River Transport: The River Thames isn’t just scenic - it’s a functional transport route. Thames Clippers and riverboats offer a unique way to travel across the city while enjoying picturesque views. Ideal for both commuters and tourists, river transport combines convenience with a touch of adventure.
• Taxis: The iconic black cabs of London are renowned for their knowledgeable drivers, who pass the famous "Knowledge" test to ensure they know the city inside and out. Alternatively, ride-hailing services such as Uber and Bolt are widely available, offering convenient and flexible transport options for residents and visitors alike.
• Accessibility Options: London caters to travellers with disabilities through step-free access at many Tube and rail stations, low-floor buses, and accessible taxi services. Apps like TfL Go also help plan accessible journeys with ease.
  

Book cheap train tickets to London with EMR and save on your next trip to the capital. Here are the best ways to save money on your trains to London today.

• Booking tickets in advance to London can save you even more money on your trip.
• Use a discount railcard to save to 1/3 off train fares.
• Travelling as a group of three or more? There are group discounts available.
• Save time and money when booking your next trip to the capital by downloading the EMR app.

Save on Train Tickets to London | Rail Card Discount

If you’d like cheaper train tickets to London St Pancras, check to see if you could save with a railcard. Easy to buy and simpler than ever to use, our rail discount cards help you to save on average 33% off the cost of your journey, using the discount when you book your tickets!

Off-Peak Train Times to London | Cheapest Trains to London

Traveling during Off-Peak hours can help reduce expenses on a trip to London. These hours usually fall outside of rush hour when the crowds are reduced, and you may be able to get a lower-priced ticket.

It's a great idea to check for any available discounts and specific Off-Peak times when booking.

Group Travel Discount | Cheap Train Tickets to London

Don’t forget that if you’re travelling in a group, you could secure even more savings on your train tickets to London St Pancras. Groups travelling with East Midlands Railway can save money and find cheap train tickets by booking one of our group train tickets . For more information on our group tickets to London please visit our dedicated group ticket page.

To see more money saving tips, head over to our guide on how to get cheap train tickets.

Buy train tickets to London

Our intercity services run direct to London St Pancras International from Sheffield, Derby, Nottingham and Leicester, so you can arrive in the capital in comfort and style.

• Trains from Leicester to London – check trains and buy tickets
• Trains from Nottingham to London – check trains and buy tickets
• Trains from Derby to London – check trains and buy tickets
• Trains from Sheffield to London - check trains and buy tickets

Thanks to our partnership with Eurostar , you can also continue your journey with one through-ticket on numerous European routes.

Check our timetables for trains to and from London

The cheapest day to travel by train to London will depend on the route and time of day you need to travel.

• When booking the cheapest train tickets to London, look for off-peak times, which are usually between 10:00 and 16:00, or after 19:00.
• Book your tickets in advance to secure the cheapest train tickets to London St Pancras.

When it comes to finding cheap train tickets to London, booking in advance is key. Last-minute tickets are typically much more expensive due to limited availability and increased demand. Advance train tickets are usually released around 12 weeks before the departure date and often come with significant savings compared to tickets purchased closer to the travel date.

Planning your journey early not only helps you secure the best prices but also gives you more flexibility in choosing your travel time. Many train operators offer discounts for off-peak hours, which can further reduce the cost of your trip.

While it might be tempting to wait and hope for last-minute deals, this approach rarely works for train travel. Instead, booking as early as possible is the most reliable way to save money on your rail journey to London.

Yes, travel assistance is available on trains to and from London. This service is intended to support passengers with mobility challenges, disabilities, or anyone who requires extra help during their trip.

While we encourage booking assistance ahead of time, help will still be available on the day if advance arrangements cannot be made.

Yes, you can bring your bike on the train to London. However, space is often limited, so it's recommended to reserve a bike space in advance. Folding bikes can be carried on any service without reservation, provided they are folded and stored safely. For more information about bikes on trains, see our dedicated page.

London is at its most pleasant during late spring (April to June) and early autumn (September to October). These seasons bring mild weather, perfect for enjoying outdoor attractions and events without the large crowds of summer. Winter, on the other hand, offers a magical atmosphere with festive decorations and Christmas markets, while summer boasts long days and lively festivals. The best time to visit really depends on what you’re looking for.

London is home to an incredible array of annual events and festivals that showcase its rich culture, heritage, and lively atmosphere. Here are some of the must-see events that take place throughout the year in the capital:

• Notting Hill Carnival: Held every August Bank Holiday, Notting Hill Carnival is one of the largest street festivals in the world. It’s a vibrant celebration of Caribbean culture, featuring colourful parades, live music, dazzling costumes, and mouthwatering street food. The streets of Notting Hill come alive with the sound of steel drums, Calypso, and Soca music, creating an unforgettable experience for millions of attendees.
• London Film Festival: Organised by the British Film Institute (BFI), the London Film Festival takes place every October and is a highlight for film enthusiasts. It showcases the best in international cinema, from feature films to documentaries, alongside exclusive premieres, Q&A sessions with directors, and insightful panel discussions. The event is hosted at iconic venues across London, making it a hub for both industry professionals and movie lovers.
• London Marathon: Every April, London becomes the stage for one of the most famous marathons in the world. The London Marathon attracts elite athletes, charity fundraisers, and amateur runners, all taking on the challenge of a 26.2-mile route. The marathon winds through some of London’s most famous landmarks, including Tower Bridge and Buckingham Palace, providing a scenic and inspiring backdrop for participants and spectators alike.
• Taste of London: Foodies flock to Regent’s Park every June for the Taste of London festival. This food-focused event celebrates the city’s exceptional culinary scene, featuring top chefs, interactive cooking demonstrations, gourmet tastings, and pop-up restaurants. It’s the perfect opportunity to sample dishes from some of London’s best eateries and gain inspiration for your own cooking adventures.
• Trooping the Colour: A grand tradition steeped in British history, Trooping the Colour marks the official birthday of the reigning monarch and takes place annually in June. This spectacular military parade features the Household Division in their full regalia, a stirring display of pageantry, and appearances by members of the Royal Family. The parade concludes with a breathtaking RAF flyover visible from Buckingham Palace.
• Wireless Festival: Music fans can’t miss the Wireless Festival, held every July in Finsbury Park. As one of the leading urban music festivals, Wireless features an incredible lineup of chart-topping artists from hip-hop, R&B, grime, and rap. The festival offers an electric atmosphere, bringing together music lovers for an unforgettable weekend of live performances.
• Winter Wonderland: A festive favourite, Winter Wonderland runs from November to January in Hyde Park. This magical event transforms the park into a Christmas wonderland, complete with sparkling markets, thrilling rides, an ice-skating rink, live performances, and plenty of holiday treats. It’s the ultimate seasonal destination for families and friends to get into the holiday spirit.
• Pride in London: Taking place every June, Pride in London is a vibrant celebration of the LGBTQ+ community. The event includes a colourful parade through central London, live music, performances, and a variety of events across the city. Pride offers an inclusive and uplifting environment, attracting thousands of people from around the world.
• Chelsea Flower Show: Held every May, the Chelsea Flower Show is a prestigious event organised by the Royal Horticultural Society. It showcases the best in garden design, horticulture, and floral artistry. Garden enthusiasts and experts gather to explore stunning displays, discover the latest trends in gardening, and enjoy the beauty of floral creativity.
• Chinese New Year Celebrations: London’s Chinatown and Trafalgar Square come alive with vibrant celebrations for Chinese New Year, usually in January or February. Expect dragon and lion dances, lantern displays, traditional performances, and delicious Chinese cuisine as the city welcomes the Lunar New Year in style.
• Wimbledon Tennis Championships: Every July, tennis fans from around the globe descend on London for the iconic Wimbledon Championships. Known as the oldest and most prestigious tennis tournament, Wimbledon offers world-class matches, a quintessentially British atmosphere, and, of course, strawberries and cream.
• Thames Festival (Totally Thames): Throughout September, the Thames Festival celebrates London’s iconic river with a month-long program of events. From riverside art installations and live performances to boat races and historical tours, this festival offers unique ways to engage with the city’s lifeblood.
• Open House London: Architecture enthusiasts rejoice during Open House London in September, an extraordinary event that grants public access to some of the city’s most iconic and hidden buildings. From historic landmarks to modern marvels, visitors can explore London’s architectural treasures and learn about their stories.

These festivals and events highlight the diversity, creativity, and energy that make London such a dynamic city. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, there’s always something exciting to experience in the capital year-round.

London boasts an extensive network of train stations, highlighting its role as a major global transport hub. According to the Office of Rail and Road (ORR), there are 334 train stations within the city limits. These are part of the National Rail network and include everything from large transport hubs to smaller local and suburban commuter stations.

Major stations like London Waterloo, London Victoria, and London Liverpool Street serve millions of passengers annually, connecting the capital to destinations across the UK. Central London is also home to 19 terminal stations, such as King’s Cross, Paddington, and Euston, which act as key departure or arrival points for long-distance journeys.

In addition to the National Rail network, London’s transport system includes the famous Underground, or Tube, with 272 stations, as well as the Overground network featuring 112 stations. While these are separate from the National Rail system, they play a vital role in the city’s overall transportation framework.

The total number of train stations in London varies depending on the definition used. While there are 334 National Rail stations, the figure grows significantly when factoring in the Tube and Overground networks, providing seamless travel options for Londoners and visitors alike.