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Derby to London train ticket prices
€18.86
On Mon 21
Derby to London train timetable
Travelling from Derby to London, the fastest train takes 1h 27m with an average travel time of 1h 49m. With 65 daily trains, the first departs at 03:47 and the last at 22:50. Off-Peak hours begin at 09:30 on weekdays, and all-day Off-Peak on weekends and bank holidays. Keep informed of live train status, times, delays, and cancellations with us.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
15:32 Derby | 1h 37m, Direct | 17:09 London St. Pancras International | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
15:38 Derby | 1h 54m, 1 change | 17:32 London Euston | Avanti West Coast | Find tickets |
16:08 Derby | 1h 31m, Direct | 17:39 London St. Pancras International | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
16:31 Derby | 1h 53m, 1 change | 18:24 London Euston | LNR & WMR | Find tickets |
16:32 Derby | 1h 38m, Direct | 18:10 London St. Pancras International | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
Derby to London train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Derby to London 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.
Travelling with East Midlands Railway: Onboard experience
East Midlands Railway luggage allowance
Bring all the essentials in one large suitcase and either a cabin-sized case or a smaller piece of hand luggage - great for short stays or extended trips.
Travelling in East Midlands Railway Standard Class coaches
Passengers can reserve their desired seat and make full use of EMR’s amenities for a comfortable journey. Connect to the free WiFi network to catch up on messages. Haven’t bought any snacks from the station? The onboard trolley’s got you covered.
Should I upgrade to East Midlands Railway First Class?
A Derby to London First Class ticket offers appealing extras to ensure you relax throughout your trip. Sit back in spacious seats and keep your devices’ batteries topped up with plug sockets. Attentive EMR is on hand to serve breakfast/afternoon bites along with snacks and drinks. Passengers should note that complimentary catering isn’t available on Sundays.
Train travel from Derby to London
Departure from Derby
Suitably connected to the city’s bus network (including the Unibus for students), Derby station is an ideal base for convenient rail travel. You can also take a short 20-minute stroll from the city centre or have a cab drop you off directly by the station building.
- Platforms 5–6: London-bound services often use platform 5 or 6, accessible via the footbridge and lifts. Check the departures board and leave enough time to reach your platform before the train arrives.
- Station refreshments: Stock up on train snacks at WHSmith or sit down with a tasty Greggs pastry or Costa beverage before your train is announced. More hot drinks are available on platform 6.
On board trains from Derby to London
The Derby to London train opens a window into picturesque landscapes that you won’t find elsewhere. Soak up impressive views and onboard comforts.
- Views from your seat: Marvel at magnificent countryside scenery and Leicestershire’s lush fields. After passing Bedford, the right side opens up to vast clay pits of the former Stewartby Brickworks, the production site behind many of the nation’s twenty-first-century buildings.
- Tasty treats: EMR’s catering trolley is loaded with a selection of refreshments to purchase (card payment only). Upgrade to First Class for a dedicated breakfast or afternoon menu - all served by your onboard host at no extra cost (Monday to Saturday; excluding alcoholic drinks).
Arriving at London St Pancras International
Hop off at London St Pancras International station, the city’s gateway to local neighbourhoods, national hotspots and international destinations - all tucked behind the gorgeous St Pancras Renaissance Hotel.
- Find your way out: Trains from Derby to St Pancras International terminate on the station’s upper level. Take the lift or escalator down to the ground floor for the exits.
- Pancras Road exit: Take the main exit for Kings Cross station (rail and Underground) or Coal Drops Yard.
- Midland Road exit: Two doors on the other side of the main exit lead to the Francis Crick Institute and the taxi rank.
- Eurostar exit: Located by The Arcade, this way out takes passengers to another taxi rank.
- Western exit: Get direct access to the Tube at the far end of the station.
- Travelling around London: St Pancras International is well connected to the Circle, Northern, Victoria, Piccadilly, Metropolitan and Hammersmith & City lines on the London Underground. Hop on London’s famous black cabs from the multiple taxi ranks or red buses from Euston Road or Midland Road. There’s much to explore on foot, from the Crypt Gallery to the London Canal Museum.
Related travel guides
Why book Derby to London trains with TrainPal?
Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?
TrainPal's Split Ticket feature automatically divides your journey into multiple ticket segments, saving up to 50% compared to buying a single through ticket. Train fares from Derby to London start from just €18.86 on TrainPal.
Is TrainPal cheaper than buying direct?
TrainPal is often cheaper than buying direct. We don't charge any booking fees, and our Split Ticketing technology searches for the lowest fare combination across your entire journey—something train operator websites don't offer. Plus, we compare prices across multiple operators (e.g., East Midlands Railway, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast on the Derby to London route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.
Derby to London train travel guide
The train journey from Derby to London combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Derby, you can get to London in just 1h 27m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.

Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Derby to London?
Ticket prices from Derby to London average around €18.86, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.
What is the best way to travel from Derby to London by train?
What is the fastest train from Derby to London?
The fastest train journey time from Derby to London is 1h 27m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.
Are there direct trains from Derby to London?
No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Derby to London. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.
Is it worth taking a train from Derby to London?
Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.
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 Derby to London trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Derby to London 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?
Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.
Do Derby to London trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Derby to London route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.
How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?
Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.
What is the difference between Standard and First Class?
Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by 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 Derby to London route?
The train from Derby to London is operated by East Midlands Railway. 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
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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Bicycle
A free reservation is required for bikes on most journeys due to limited space. While standard bicycles and folding bikes are widely permitted, some operators have provisions for e-bikes and tandems. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bike trailers are not allowed. As policies vary, it is essential to consult your specific train operator's website for their definitive cycle rules before you travel.
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Children
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
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Pets
You are welcome to bring up to 2 pets with you at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead and other animals in a suitable carrier. Please note that for the comfort of all passengers, pets are not allowed on seats or in restaurant carriages.
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Passenger assistance
All operators offer assistance services for passengers with disabilities or additional needs. This should be booked in advance to guarantee availability.
How to buy cheap Derby to London train tickets

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds

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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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