London to Stratford-Upon-Avon Trains From £11.95*

Connect two Shakespearian cities with fast modern train travel. Follow in the Bard’s footsteps but travel in comfort and style on fast Chiltern Railways trains. Change once in Warwick, or Royal Leamington Spa.

What is the onboard experience like with Chiltern Railways?

Spacious carriages, complimentary Wi-Fi, and ample luggage space make the onboard experience practical and comfortable with Chiltern Railways. Note: the operator does not offer onboard food and drink, so it is advised to buy your own snacks and drinks before you board. Alcohol is not permitted on Chiltern Railways trains.

Is Chiltern Railways First Class available?

No, Chiltern Railways does not offer First Class presently, so your trip from London to Stratford-upon-Avon will be in Standard Class only. The operator does, however, have plans to reinstate some First Class seating. 

Can I bring enough bags on Chiltern Railways trains?

Bring up to three pieces of luggage on Chiltern Railways trains at no extra cost. Any items larger than one metre in any dimension are not permitted on board.

What items are prohibited?

Furniture exceeding dimensions 30cm x 70cm x 90cm is not permitted onboard. E-Scooters are not allowed  on any Chiltern Railways train, nor are guns or other dangerous goods like inflammable liquids and explosives.

Can I bring my bike on Chiltern Railways?

Bicycles are not permitted on Chiltern Railways services at peak times, except for folding cycles, which should be stored in the luggage compartment. At weekends, and outside peak hours, you can board with a bike at the train manager’s discretion.

A Warwickshire market town, and one of England’s most iconic locations for its connection to playwright William Shakespeare, Stratford-upon-Avon is a top destination from London for good reason. Here’s how to get to the West Midlands town in style.

London Marylebone: Getting to the Platform

• Iconic railway: One of the four station squares on the British Monopoly board, London Marylebone was opened in 1899, the last section of the Great Central Main Line to be built. Before you board, have a walk around the station and read historical plaques, including one for the poet Sir John Betjeman.
• Pints and coffee: On Melcombe Place, as you enter Marylebone, stop for a drink at The Station Master pub. Once inside, buy a hot drink at AMT Coffee, or Starbucks.
• Heading west: A six-platform station, you will typically depart from platforms 1 or 2 for Chiltern Railways services heading west out of Marylebone.

Onboard trains from London to Stratford-upon-Avon

Interesting sights abound on your journey to the southernmost point of the Arden. These are some of our favourite views on your route.

• Key Landmarks: Start out west from Marylebone, passing Wembley Stadium, and Savay Lake. As you bend north, you’ll travel through Bicester, and then miles of West Midlands greenery, before arriving at the northern extremity of the Cotswolds.
• The View Alert: For the best views out of London, choose a seat on the Left-Hand Side of the carriage (facing West).

Arriving at Stratford-upon-Avon

Stratford is a town with a fascinating history, inhabited originally by Britons before Anglo-Saxons, and the birthplace and burial place of the playwright William Shakespeare. The station itself was opened in 1861.

• Station facilities: Arrive at Stratford-upon-Avon railway station, a basic three-platform station that provides excellent access to one of England’s most iconic towns. Step-free access is available between the platforms by using the lifts on the footbridge.
• Stratford by foot: From the station, walk all around Stratford-upon-Avon, with access to Shakespeare’s Birthplace in under 10 minutes, and the River Avon in only 15 minutes.
• Stagecoach: For buses around the town and into neighbouring villages, board services operated by Stagecoach from directly outside the station.