Cambridge to Nottingham Trains From £16.70*

The East Midlands Railway leg from Ely or Peterborough to Nottingham is usually served by their regional Class 158 or Class 170 fleets – some of which have now been refurbished to offer:

• New seat padding

• USB/power points at seats

• Updated carpets

Does EMR have First Class?

No, the seating on this EMR route is almost entirely Standard Class. Some services will have a small First Class seating area, these are increasingly becoming declassified on regional routes.

The Standard Class experience with EMR includes free Wi-Fi, the usual luggage spaces, and two bike spaces per train (reservation recommended). There is typically no trolley service on these regional legs, so stock up on drinks and snacks in advance!

What is the Wi-Fi like with East Midlands Railway?

The Wi-Fi on EMR’s regional service is functional but experiences some dead zones on more rural parts of this route – particularly between Ely, Peterborough and Grantham. EMR’s Wi-Fi connection is designed for browsing, email, and social media. 

EMR requests that passengers not stream video or download large files. So if you want to catch up on your latest binge watch, we recommend downloading it in advance.

Navigating train journeys with transfers can seem daunting at first, but once you know what to expect, you’ll fly through it with confidence. We’ve got the info and tips you need to travel this route like a local.

Departing from Cambridge station

Cambridge station is about a 20-minute walk or a 10-minute cycle from the city centre. If you’ve got heavy baggage, the Guided Busway routes A, B and C and the universal local bus stop directly at the station. Avoid driving here – the station square is often congested, but the Trumpington or Babraham Road Park & Ride offers direct links to the station.

• Platform zones: Platforms 1 and 4 are the main through platforms, while Platforms 7 & 8 are located across a footbridge – you’ll need to take the stairs or a lift. Trains heading towards Ely or Peterborough often depart from Platform 1 – however, CrossCountry services to Peterborough sometimes depart from 7 or 8.
• ‘A’ Sections: If there is an 'A' after your platform on your ticket or departure board (e.g., Platform 1a), you’ll be departing from the end of the platform – allow a 3-minute walk to get from the ticket barrier to here.

Onboard trains from Cambridge to Nottingham

The train from Cambridge to Nottingham crosses the Fens – a natural marshy region rich in wildlife. 

• Don’t miss these views: As you approach Ely, the Ely Cathedral will loom into view in the distance, making for a dramatic sight. Between Ely and Peterborough is where you’ll have the best view of The Fens – look out for black peat soil and ancient windmills. Finally, routes that go via Grantham will pass the soaring Grantham Spire.
• Which side to sit: Sitting on the left will get you the best view of the Ely Cathedral.

Arriving at Nottingham station

Nottingham station places you quite centrally in the city – the centre, Nottingham Castle and the Lace Market are all roughly 10 minutes away on foot.

• Main Exit: This leads to Carrington Street and is the main exit for reaching the city centre. The taxi rank is also located outside this exit.
• Station Street Exit: Leads towards the Canal Street area – take this exit to reach the NET tram stop – this will take you to the centre, Trent University and Queens Medical Centre.
• Queen’s Road Exit: Located on the south side of the station, take this exit to access the car park.

In addition to the tram and taxi rank, you’ll also find local Citylink bus services that stop outside the main entrance on Carrington Street. The Broadmarsh Bus & Coach Station is also just a 5-minute walk away.