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London Kings Cross to Leeds train ticket prices

Travelling from London Kings Cross to Leeds by train? Find fares from as low as €23.14. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

€23.14󰄽

On Thu 30 Jul

  • Thu30 Jul
  • €35.01󰄽
    Fri31 Jul
  • €28.89󰄽
    Sat01 Aug
  • €28.89󰄽
    Sun02 Aug
  • €41.50󰄽
    Mon03 Aug
  • €36.77󰄽
    Tue04 Aug
  • €35.01󰄽
    Wed05 Aug

London Kings Cross to Leeds train timetable

Travelling from London Kings Cross to Leeds, the fastest train takes 2h 9m with an average travel time of 2h 12m. With 41 daily trains, the first departs at 05:40 and the last at 23:33. 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.

DepartsArrivesOperator

23:08

London Kings Cross
3h 26m, 1 change

02:34

Leeds
LNER
Find tickets

23:33

London Kings Cross
3h 1m, 1 change

02:34

Leeds
LNER
Find tickets
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London Kings Cross to Leeds train tickets and times

Plan your journey from London Kings Cross to Leeds 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.

Price
From €23.14
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
168 miles (270km)
Journey time
2h 9m
First train
05:40
Last train
23:33
Frequency
41

LNER trains from London King's Cross to Leeds

By Jay Harlow | Updated May 20, 2026
Getting from the capital to the heart of Yorkshire is a breeze with direct London North Eastern Railway (LNER), the primary operator for this high-speed corridor, taking 2h 11m. With frequent departures throughout the day, LNER provides flexibility for both business trips and leisure travel, ensuring you arrive in Leeds refreshed and ready to explore the city.

Is LNER First Class worth the extra cost?

If you value productivity or luxury, First Class is a noticeable upgrade. Seats are wider, leather-upholstered, and recline more than those in Standard, with up to 50% more legroom. Complimentary meals and drinks are served at your seat, ranging from full hot breakfasts to evening snacks.

What is the LNER Standard Class experience like?

Standard Class on LNER Azuma trains combines modern comfort with practicality. Seats are ergonomic and include fold-down tables and personal power sockets. Overhead racks and under-seat spaces easily accommodate cabin-sized luggage, and the Foodbar offers a wide selection of hot drinks, sandwiches, and local snacks. With trains running every 30 minutes during peak times, Standard Class provides a reliable, cost-effective travel option that still meets the needs of business and leisure passengers alike.

What onboard facilities can I expect?

Connectivity is straightforward with free Wi-Fi available throughout, though First Class provides faster, more reliable speeds. Standard passengers can order food using the QR-based “Let’s Eat at Your Seat” service, avoiding buffet queues. Carriages feature accessible toilets, baby-changing facilities, and real-time digital screens showing journey progress, connecting services, and station information.

Train travels from London King's Cross to Leeds

The route from London King’s Cross to Leeds follows the famous East Coast Main Line, covering roughly 168 miles in just over two hours on direct services. Here is how to navigate departure, enjoy the journey, and arrive in Leeds smoothly.

Departure from London King's Cross

London King’s Cross is one of the UK’s busiest rail hubs, connecting national rail routes with the London Underground and major bus corridors.

Specific transport links

  • The Tube Underground: King’s Cross St Pancras station serves Circle, Hammersmith & City, Metropolitan, Northern, Piccadilly and Victoria lines.
  • The Victoria Line: The fastest link from south and north London, with trains arriving every few minutes during peak hours.
  • London Bus Routes: Bus stops on Euston Road (Stops D and E) connect routes like the 91 and 73 directly outside the station.
  • Cycling Access: Santander Cycles docking stations sit near the Pancras Road and Euston Road entrances for quick cycle drop-offs.

Station layout

  • Platforms 0–8 (Main Shed): Most LNER long-distance services to Leeds depart from these central platforms.
  • Platform 0 Location: Positioned on the far right of the concourse near luggage storage and ticket gates.
  • Platforms 9–11 (Western Range): Located past the ticket office and Platform 9¾ shop, roughly a three-minute walk from the main boards.

Pre-departure essentials

If you arrive early, King’s Cross has plenty of quick food and drink options. Waitrose inside the concourse is a reliable stop for sandwiches, drinks, and snacks before boarding. For better coffee, many regular travellers head to Gail’s Bakery near the platforms 9–11 corridor.

Onboard trains from LondonKing'ss Cross to Leeds

Once you leave London, the train quickly settles into a smooth high-speed run along the East Coast Main Line. Although the journey is relatively short, there are a few scenic highlights and interesting landmarks along the way if you know where to look.

The scenic side

Sit on the right-hand side for the best countryside views, including Lincolnshire farmland after Peterborough and the elevated panoramic approach into Leeds.

Key landmarks

  • Peterborough Cathedral: A striking medieval cathedral visible briefly as the train approaches the station.
  • Doncaster railway yards: Historic rail engineering site where famous locomotives were once built.
  • Yorkshire countryside: Traditional farmland and hedgerows offer classic northern English scenery.
  • Leeds city skyline: Modern glass buildings mix with historic industrial structures near the final approach.

Arriving at Leeds

Leeds station sits right beside the city centre and serves as a major transport hub for West Yorkshire. Because the station has several exits, knowing which one to use can save you time when heading into the city.

The correct exit

  • Main north exit: Leads onto New Station Street opposite the Queens Hotel and main pedestrian crossing.
  • Southern entrance: Modern glass entrance overlooking the River Aire and Granary Wharf waterfront area.
  • South Bank route: Best option if you are heading towards the Royal Armouries Museum or Leeds Dock.

Onward travel

  • City Buses: Leeds operates a dense bus network with many routes departing from Station Interchange (Stand S).
  • University Routes: Buses 1 and 6 frequently run between the station and the University of Leeds campus.
  • Leeds Water Taxi: Small yellow boats run every 15 minutes between Granary Wharf and Leeds Dock.
  • National Express Connections: Leeds City Bus Station is roughly a 12-minute walk via Boar Lane.

Walkability

Trinity Leeds shopping centre sits about three minutes away, while Millennium Square and the Civic Quarter are roughly a 10-minute walk uphill. Most major attractions, restaurants,s and offices lie within a 15-minute walking radius, making it easy to explore without needing additional transport.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

London Kings Cross to Leeds train travel guide

Travelling by train from London Kings Cross to Leeds is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from London Kings Cross, you can reach Leeds in just 2h 9m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from London Kings Cross to Leeds?

Ticket prices from London Kings Cross to Leeds average around €23.14, 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.

How do I find the best train route from London Kings Cross to Leeds?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare London Kings Cross to Leeds train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!

What is the fastest train from London Kings Cross to Leeds?

The fastest train journey time from London Kings Cross to Leeds is 2h 9m. 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 London Kings Cross to Leeds?

No, there are no direct trains from London Kings Cross to Leeds. 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 London Kings Cross to Leeds?

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

Check timetables and during the journey

How do I find London Kings Cross to Leeds train timetables?

London Kings Cross to Leeds 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 London Kings Cross to Leeds trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the London Kings Cross to Leeds 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?

Transferring between train stations in the UK can be effortless with some planning. If your travel requires a transfer, review your ticket and journey details for specific transfer instructions. Major stations typically feature clear signage and helpful staff. Additionally, TrainPal Train Journey Planner offers comprehensive transfer details.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

While Standard Class offers a good travel experience, First Class provides an upgrade in comfort and service. This typically includes enhanced amenities like complimentary food and drinks, though the specific offerings depend on the train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.

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 London Kings Cross to Leeds route?

The train from London Kings Cross to Leeds 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

    Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

  • 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 London Kings Cross to Leeds train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

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

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

Your train was disrupted?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

* 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.