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Cambridge to Stansted Airport train ticket prices
€9.74
On Tue 23 Jun
Cambridge to Stansted Airport train timetable
Travelling from Cambridge to Stansted Airport, the fastest train takes 28m with an average travel time of 33m. 40 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 04:45 and the last at 22:48. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
21:07 Cambridge | 33m, Direct | 21:40 Stansted Airport | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
21:18 Cambridge | 1h 5m, 1 change | 22:23 Stansted Airport | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
22:09 Cambridge | 31m, Direct | 22:40 Stansted Airport | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
22:18 Cambridge | 1h 5m, 1 change | 23:23 Stansted Airport | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
22:48 Cambridge | 51m, 1 change | 23:39 Stansted Airport | Greater Anglia | Find tickets |
Cambridge to Stansted Airport train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Cambridge to Stansted Airport with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
CrossCountry vs Greater Anglia: Which one to choose?
The Cambridge to Stansted Airport route is short but busy, covering roughly 22 miles with up to 65 direct trains daily. Journey times are impressively quick, between 24 and 33 minutes, making rail the fastest and most reliable option for airport transfers.
With CrossCountry and Greater Anglia running direct services, choosing the right operator can make a small but meaningful difference to your journey experience. The table below gives a clear, side-by-side comparison.
Train operator | Avg. duration | Departure station | Best for | Feature services |
|---|---|---|---|---|
Greater Anglia | 33 mins | Accessibility & luggage | Modern Stadler trains, low-floor boarding, free Wi-Fi, power & USB sockets | |
CrossCountry | 28 mins | Cambridge | Speed & value | Fastest journey times, free Wi-Fi, power sockets (window seats), competitive advance fares |
- Accessibility: Greater Anglia’s newer trains offer step-free boarding, ideal for heavy luggage or reduced mobility.
- Speed: CrossCountry services are faster, saving an average of 5 minutes.
- Stations: Cambridge North is served only by Greater Anglia, which is useful if travelling from the north of the city.
Train travel from Cambridge to Stansted Airport
Getting from Cambridge to Stansted Airport by train is straightforward, with frequent direct services linking the historic university city to the airport terminal in under 30 minutes.
Departure from Cambridge
With over 60 direct services daily and an average journey time of around 30 minutes, Cambridge station is well set up for airport travellers.
Specific transport links
- The Guided Busway: Routes A and P connect areas like St Ives and the Science Park directly to the station forecourt.
- Local Stagecoach/Whippet buses: The Universal (U) bus provides a frequent link between West Cambridge, the city centre, and the station.
- Voi e-scooters: Designated parking bays sit just outside the station entrance.
Station layout
- Main concourse: Upon entry, ticket machines and the ticket office are immediately visible.
- Platform access: Stansted-bound trains usually depart from Platforms 7 or 8, accessible via lifts or the footbridge at the far end.
Pre-departure essentials
You’ll find an M&S Foodhall and Sainsbury’s Local in the station square for snacks or meal deals. Inside the gates, AMT Coffee and Starbucks offer reliable options for a takeaway drink. Seating areas are available on platforms, though peak times can be busy, so arriving 10–15 minutes early is sensible.
Onboard trains from Cambridge to Stansted Airport
The journey covers roughly 22 miles and takes as little as 24 minutes, with trains reaching speeds of up to 100 mph.
The scenic side
- Sit on the left-hand side for views of open countryside, rolling fields, and the expansive Cambridgeshire skies that define the region’s landscape.
- Sit on the right-hand side for glimpses of small villages and rail infrastructure, including sidings and approach lines as you near the airport.
Key landmarks
- Hinxton Hall & Wellcome Genome Campus: A modern research complex visible shortly after departure, standing out against the rural backdrop with its large-scale facilities.
- Audley End estate parkland: Expansive landscaped grounds designed by Capability Brown can be spotted near Audley End, even if the house itself remains hidden.
Arriving at Stansted Airport
The station sits directly beneath the terminal, making it one of the most convenient airport rail connections in the UK. Most passengers reach check-in within 5–7 minutes of stepping off the train.
The correct exit
- Main terminal ramp: Follow clear “Way Out” and “Terminal” signs leading up ramps and lifts directly from the platforms to the terminal building.
- Arrivals hall access: The exit leads straight into the Arrivals area, making navigation simple even for first-time visitors.
- Taxi rank access: Follow signs for the Short Stay Car Park to reach taxis and pick-up points just outside the terminal entrance.
Onward travel
- Coach station: Located a 2-minute walk via a covered walkway, serving National Express and regional buses to London and beyond.
- Rail connections: Direct trains continue to London Liverpool Street and other destinations, making Stansted a useful interchange point.
Walkability
Stansted Airport is designed for efficiency, with clear signage and short walking distances between transport modes. The train station is effectively part of the terminal complex, eliminating the need for shuttle buses in most cases. Even connections to hotels and coach services are covered and well signposted, making it easy to navigate with luggage.
Cambridge to Stansted Airport train travel guide
Travelling by train from Cambridge to Stansted Airport is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Cambridge, you can reach Stansted Airport in just 28m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Cambridge to Stansted Airport?
The average ticket fare from Cambridge to Stansted Airport is about €9.74, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.
How do I find the best train route from Cambridge to Stansted Airport?
What is the fastest train from Cambridge to Stansted Airport?
The fastest train journey time from Cambridge to Stansted Airport is 28m . Use our Train Journey Planner to find direct trains, avoid transfers, and compare travel times for each route to see if there are fewer stops to make your journey seamless.
Are there direct trains from Cambridge to Stansted Airport?
No, there are no direct trains from Cambridge to Stansted Airport. However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip
Is it worth taking a train from Cambridge to Stansted Airport?
Yes, the train is always an excellent choice that balances convenience, comfort, and efficiency. It's more environmentally friendly and relaxing than driving, as you avoid traffic and parking. While coaches may be cheaper, the train provides superior comfort, more space, and greater scheduling flexibility. With the added benefit of arriving directly in the city centre, it's a very convenient way to travel.
How far in advance can I book my train ticket?
To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.

Check timetables and during the journey
Are Cambridge to Stansted Airport trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Cambridge to Stansted Airport trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Typically, you should plan to arrive at the station 15-20 minutes before your train is scheduled to depart. However, the size of the station and your familiarity with it can affect this timing. For larger or less familiar stations, leaving home earlier can help reduce stress and ensure a more relaxed journey.
Do Cambridge to Stansted Airport trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Cambridge to Stansted Airport are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific train operator.

Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone
Which train companies operate the Cambridge to Stansted Airport route?
The train from Cambridge to Stansted Airport is operated by CrossCountry. To see which operator runs a specific service, the easiest way to identify it is to use the search bar on this page. The name of the train company will be clearly displayed next to each journey option in the search results.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
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Bicycle
You must make a free reservation to bring a bike on most trains, but space is limited. Standard and folding bikes are generally accepted, and some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. However, e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are prohibited. We strongly advise checking the train operator's specific cycle policy on their website before travelling.
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Children
Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
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Pets
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.
How to buy cheap Cambridge to Stansted Airport train tickets

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
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* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.





















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