
No booking fees on the app

Best Price Promise

Delay Repay

24/7 customer support
Ely to Retford train timetable
From Ely to Retford, take the fastest train in 1 hour 20 minutes, typically 1 hour 28 minutes. Daily, 13 trains depart from Ely, with the first at 05:30 and the last at 21:17. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. TrainPal saves you time, effort, and money.
| Departs | Arrives | Operator | ||
|---|---|---|---|---|
17:53 Ely | 1 hour 38 minutes, 1 change | 19:31 Retford | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
18:53 Ely | 1 hour 20 minutes, 1 change | 20:13 Retford | East Midlands Railway | Find tickets |
19:17 Ely | 2 hours 26 minutes, 2 change | 21:43 Retford | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
21:17 Ely | 1 hour 55 minutes, 1 change | 23:12 Retford | CrossCountry | Find tickets |
Ely to Retford train tickets and times
Plan your journey from Ely to Retford 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.
Ely to Retford train travel guide
Taking the train from Ely to Retford is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Ely, you can arrive at Retford in just 1 hour 20 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.

Planning and booking
How much does it cost for a train from Ely to Retford?
The average fare from Ely to Retford is approximately €69.31, but the final price fluctuates. The actual cost depends on your travel dates, how far in advance you book, and your ticket's flexibility. To see the current price for your journey, please search with your specific dates.
What is the best way to travel from Ely to Retford by train?
What is the fastest train from Ely to Retford?
The fastest train journey time from Ely to Retford is 1 hour 20 minutes . 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 Ely to Retford?
No, there are no direct trains from Ely to Retford. 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 Ely to Retford?
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?
Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

Check timetables and during the journey
How do I find Ely to Retford train timetables?
Ely to Retford 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?
It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.
Do Ely to Retford trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the Ely to Retford 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?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Ely to Retford route?
The train from Ely to Retford 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
-
Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
-
Bicycle
Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.
-
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.
-
Pets
Bring up to 2 pets free; keep dogs on a lead or in a carrier. No animals on seats or in restaurant carriages.
-
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 Ely to Retford train tickets

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

Your plans have changed?

Your train was disrupted?
More train routes
* 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.





















New user welcome pack