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Derby to Nottingham train timetable
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
21:18 Derby | 26m, Direct | 21:44 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
22:18 Derby | 30m, Direct | 22:48 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
23:32 Derby | 29m, Direct | 00:01 Nottingham | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
Derby to Nottingham train tickets and times
East Midlands Railway: Derby to Nottingham trains
Sit back and enjoy brief countryside views before reaching Nottingham - a city steeped in history and culture. The journey from Derby to Nottingham is only around 28 minutes on an East Midlands Railway train. Direct trains operate around twice an hour.
East Midlands Railway (or EMR) runs long-distance intercity and suburban rail services to/from London and regional train routes across the East Midlands. Trains connect cities and towns like Liverpool, Kettering, Sheffield and Norwich.
Departing from Derby
Your journey starts in Derby railway station (also known as Derby Midland), south-east of the city centre on Railway Terrace, near the River Derwent’s west bank. As the busiest station in Derbyshire, frequent services depart from Derby every hour. Destinations include Plymouth, Cardiff, Edinburgh and London. All trains are either operated by East Midlands Railway or CrossCountry. If you want to buy cheap train tickets, book your journey well in advance of the travel date.
Getting to Derby station is simple. Walk from the city centre (20 minutes) or take one of the buses stopping in front of the station. A taxi rank is also by the station entrance.
Main stops
Trains from Derby to Nottingham may also stop at Long Eaton or Beeston. There can be more or fewer stops depending on the operators, time and routes.
Arriving at Nottingham
The Derby to Nottingham train arrives at Nottingham railway station, Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands’ busiest station. It’s also the city’s main train station, conveniently located on Carrington Street. East Midlands Railway (EMR), CrossCountry and Northern trains serve stations such as Crewe, Lincoln Central and London St Pancras International. For onward travel, you can take one of the many bus routes into the city or surrounding towns, as well as the Nottingham Express Transit (NET) tram. Taxi ranks are on the eastern and western entrances in addition to Queens Road.
If you’re looking to tour the city, Nottingham Castle and the network of caves beneath the streets are unmissable. From Thursday to Sunday, the vibrant Bustler Market opens its doors. It’s a great space for independent businesses, street food and live music. For something with a bit more history, check out Ye Olde Trip To Jerusalem, the oldest inn in England, built into the cliffside with the same rock forming the foundations of the castle.
East Midlands Railway train classes
- Standard Class: Some East Midlands Railway (EMR) trains provide free Wi-Fi access and plug sockets in Standard Class carriages. Comfy seats on board either have a table or a tray table.
- First Class: Derby to Nottingham First Class tickets aren’t currently available, as EMR offers First Class accommodation on intercity trains to and from London St Pancras International. These quieter carriages offer spacious seating with individual tables, plug sockets and light food and refreshments served at your table during weekday services. You can also opt for a “First plus parking” ticket for return travel and three days’ parking at selected stations.
East Midlands Railway train travel advice
- Luggage:You are allowed to bring up to two items of luggage: one larger bag with maximum dimensions of 90x70x30 cm, plus one smaller bag or cabin-sized case.
- Bicycles: Store bikes or e-bikes in the vestibule area and stay with them throughout the journey. Pre-booking is advised (you can’t book on the travel date). You can’t take a full-size bike on trains arriving in London before 10:00 or departing between 16:00 and 19:00 on weekdays. E-scooters are banned.
- Children: Under-5s travel free. Kids aged 5–15 save 50%. The Family and Friends Railcard offers a third off for up to four adults and 60% off for four children. 16–17 Saver Railcard holders get tickets at half price.
- Pets: Up to two pets can board the train. They must be in a carrier or on a lead and cannot occupy seats.
- Passenger Assist: You can book assistance like alighting trains up to two hours before travel.
CrossCountry: Derby to Nottingham trains
Get from the cathedral city to the home of Robin Hood in just 24 minutes with CrossCountry. Services operate up to three times an hour. Derby to Nottingham train journeys offer a glimpse into rural English life with lovely countryside and riverside views.
CrossCountry provides intercity trains between the South and North of England or Scotland via Birmingham, as well as regional services to/from the Midlands and Wales or East Anglia. Trains stop at stations like Tamworth, Cheltenham Spa, Manchester Piccadilly and Dundee.
CrossCountry train classes
- Standard Class: CrossCountry offers Wi-Fi in all Standard Class carriages. There are also dedicated luggage areas, overhead racks, plus hot and cold refreshments to buy on most services between 06:00 and 20:00. You can easily buy cheap train tickets when you book early.
- First Class: Derby to Nottingham First Class amenities include complimentary refreshments served at your seat, quieter carriages, spacious reclining seats and additional table space.
CrossCountry train travel advice
- Luggage: You can bring one small bag, one medium bag and one large suitcase (90 x 70 x 30 centimetres max.) with you.
- Bicycles: CrossCountry recommends reserving a bike space. An e-bike cannot exceed 250 watts. E-scooters are not permitted.
- Children: For 5–15-year-olds, most fares are half price. Under-5s travel free with an adult. The 16–17 Saver Railcard offers 50% discounts for teens. Groups of adults and kids can save with the Family and Friends Railcard.
- Pets: Passengers can take two pets on board free of charge. They must be kept in a carrier or on a lead and kept off seats.
- Passenger Assist: If you need help during your journey, such as with your luggage, you can book assistance by phone, text relay service, Transreport app, or online form.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.
Derby to Nottingham train travel guide
Travelling by train from Derby to Nottingham is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Derby, you can reach Nottingham in just 20m, 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 Derby to Nottingham?
The average ticket fare from Derby to Nottingham is about €1.10, 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.
What is the best way to travel from Derby to Nottingham by train?
What is the fastest train from Derby to Nottingham?
The quickest train journey from Derby to Nottingham takes 20m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.
Are there direct trains from Derby to Nottingham?
No, there are no direct trains from Derby to Nottingham. 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 Derby to Nottingham?
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 Derby to Nottingham trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Derby to Nottingham trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.
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 Derby to Nottingham trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Derby to Nottingham 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?
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?
Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.
Which train companies operate the Derby to Nottingham route?
The Derby to Nottingham route is operated by CrossCountry. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the 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
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 Derby to Nottingham 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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