Nottingham to Derby Trains From €1.44*

There’s no better way to get to the iconic cathedral city of Derby than by train. East Midlands Railway operates two services from Nottingham to Derby every hour, offering the option to travel when it best suits you. The scenic trip takes you along the beautiful countryside, arriving at this vibrant city with industrial heritage in just under half an hour.

East Midlands Railway (or EMR) operates long-distance trains across the East Midlands as well as intercity and suburban services to/from the capital. The routes offer key connections to places like Luton Airport, Newark and Peterborough.

Departing from Nottingham

Board the Nottingham to Derby train from the city’s main train station. Nottingham station is conveniently located on Carrington Street, with local buses and the Nottingham Express Transit (NET) tram stopping nearby.

As the busiest station in both Nottinghamshire and the East Midlands, there is no shortage of journey options from Nottingham railway station. Find seamless travel routes to Crewe, Gloucester, Liverpool and other destinations. Trains are operated by East Midlands Railway (EMR), CrossCountry and Northern.

Main stops

Stops on trains from Nottingham to Derby vary according to the operator, time and route. CrossCountry and East Midlands Railway (EMR) trains may stop at Beeston, Long Eaton or Spondon. 

Arriving at Derby

Home to not only the world’s first factory, but also the first public park in England that inspired New York’s Central Park, Derby is a true pioneer with a long history of innovation. The iconic Derby Arboretum is still a beloved green space today with some modern additions. Enjoy the serene atmosphere, playgrounds and chess tables. A trip wouldn’t be complete without trying Derbyshire oatcakes, much softer and pancake-like compared to the Scottish variety. Derby Pyclets serves fresh oatcakes and pikelets (thin crumpets) with sweet or savoury toppings.

Your Nottingham to Derby train brings you within walking distance of the best this industrial city has to offer. Alternatively, you can hop on one of the bus routes stopping in front of Derby station or catch a cab from the taxi rank.

East Midlands Railway and CrossCountry services directly link Derby to Sheffield, London, Birmingham, and other cities across the UK. The sooner you book, the more likely you are to buy cheap train tickets.

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: Nottingham to Derby First Class tickets are only available on some services. 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: East Midlands Railway allows up to three items (two larger pieces and a smaller bag) on board.
• 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.

Jump on a quick train ride from the home of Robin Hood to the industrial powerhouse Derby. CrossCountry runs two hourly trains from Nottingham to Derby, offering a peek into rural living and the county’s heritage. Most journeys only take around 26 minutes.

CrossCountry offers intercity rail services between the South and North of England, the Midlands, Wales and Scotland. Centred around Birmingham New Street, its network extends to stations such as Newcastle Central, Bristol Temple Meads and Exeter St Davids.

CrossCountry train classes

• Standard Class: All carriages in Standard Class provide luggage storage areas and free Wi-Fi. On most services, food plus hot and cold drinks are available to buy from 06:00 to 20:00. Plan ahead to buy cheap train tickets.
• First Class: Nottingham to Derby First Class accommodation includes complimentary drinks and snacks served at your seat, quieter carriages with wider reclining seats and additional table space.

CrossCountry train travel advice

• Luggage: CrossCountry allows one small bag, one medium bag and one large suitcase (90 x 70 x 30 centimetres max.) per passenger.
• Bicycles: Reserving a bike space is recommended. E-bikes must not exceed 250 watts. E-scooters are banned.
• Children: Kids aged 5–15 get a half-price ticket. Under-5s travel free with an adult. Teens with a 16–17 Saver Railcard receive 50% discounts. The Family and Friends Railcard also offers savings for groups of adults and children.
• Pets: Two pets can board free of charge. Keep them out of the aisles and off seats. They must also stay in a carrier or on a lead at all times.
• Passenger Assist: Request assistance, such as handling luggage or navigating stations, by phone or using the text relay service or the Transreport app or form.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.