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  3. Purfleet to Cambridge

Purfleet to Cambridge train times and prices

Plan your journey from Purfleet to Cambridge 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 £49.88
Departure station
Arrival station
Journey time
1h 59m
Distance
49 miles (80km)
First/last train
05:00 / 23:48
Frequency
69

* Note: Lowest prices are based on an analysis of recent historical pricing data. Live fares fluctuate based on demand and how far in advance you book.

7-day train ticket price trend

Travelling from Purfleet to Cambridge by train? Find fares from as low as £49.88. 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

£49.88󰄽

On Tue 20

  • Tue20Oct
  • £49.88󰄽
    Wed21Oct
  • £49.88󰄽
    Thu22Oct
  • £49.88󰄽
    Fri23Oct
  • £49.88󰄽
    Sat24Oct
  • £49.88󰄽
    Sun25Oct
  • £49.88󰄽
    Mon26Oct

Live timetable and departures

Travelling from Purfleet to Cambridge, the fastest train takes 1h 59m with an average travel time of 2h 27m. 69 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 05:00 and the last at 23:48. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

DepartsArrivesOperator

06:00

Purfleet
2h 20m, 2 change

08:20

Cambridge
c2c
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06:00

Purfleet
2h 39m, 1 change

08:39

Cambridge
c2c
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06:28

Purfleet
2h 15m, 1 change

08:43

Cambridge
c2c
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06:44

Purfleet
2h 13m, 3 change

08:57

Cambridge
c2c
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06:57

Purfleet
2h 16m, 1 change

09:13

Cambridge
c2c
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Essential onboard policies

  • Luggage

    • Most UK train operators allow passengers to bring a reasonable amount of luggage free of charge.
    • This is commonly considered three items per passenger, typically 2 larger bags and 1 smaller bag. Larger items cover suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.
    • Bags go in overhead racks, under seats, or in designated floor-level luggage stacks.
    • Occasionally, some providers have stricter policies, such as Lumo, which enforces a limit of 1 medium suitcase and 1 small under-seat bag per person.
  • Bicycle

    • Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed.
    • Bike reservations are required on some services and are usually free.
    • 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

    • Children under 5 usually travel free when accompanied by a fare-paying passenger.
    • Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.
  • Pets

    • Each provider generally allows up to two animals per passenger free of charge, but individual operators can have additional restrictions.
    • Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier.
    • Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.
  • Passenger assistance

    • Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange free assistance with their train operator.
    • This includes help at the station, boarding and leaving the train, and making connections. Assistance can also include ramps for wheelchair users and help finding accessible facilities or the correct platform.
    • Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets are available on many trains, although facilities vary by service.
    • To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.

Arriving at Cambridge

Cambridge
Address

Address:

Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW

Onward Transit Options

Onward Transit Options:

  • Bus: Stagecoach Citi routes 1, 3 and 7 run frequently between the station and the city centre. A Cambridge PLUSBUS ticket can be added to your train ticket on the TrainPal app for discounted unlimited bus travel around the city.

  • Taxi: A licensed taxi rank is located directly outside the main station entrance on Station Road. Private hire pick-up and drop-off is also available at the station forecourt.

  • Bicycles: Cambridge station has the largest bicycle parking facility in the UK, with space for 3,000 bikes at CyclePoint just outside the station.


Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions

Top Things to Do & Nearby Attractions:

  • Cambridge University Botanic Garden (5-minute walk)

  • The Fitzwilliam Museum (15-minute walk)

  • Market Square (20-minute walk)

  • King’s College Chapel and the Backs (20-minute walk)

  • Punting on the River Cam (20-minute walk)


Airport Transfers

Airport Transfers:

Direct trains to London Stansted Airport run approximately every half hour, taking around 30 minutes. Both CrossCountry and Greater Anglia serve this route as part of longer services terminating at Stansted Airport. There’s also a direct Thameslink service to Gatwick Airport, which takes just under two hours.


TrainPal's Travel Expert Experience

Mark Wilshin
Mark Wilshin
Updated: October 15, 2026

"Cambridge Station underwent a major 15-year renovation, completed in 2024, and the result is one of the best-equipped stations outside London. Station Place now has a great selection of food and drink options, including Chill #2, Gail’s Bakery, Craft Burger, Alchile Mexican Gourmet and the Station Tavern. One nice touch from the station's operator, Greater Anglia – there’s free drinking water available from the refill station opposite the ticket office. Travelling with your bike? Evans Cycles is right beside the station for any last-minute kit or repairs before you head out."

FAQ

  • How much is a train from Purfleet to Cambridge?

    Tickets from Purfleet to Cambridge typically cost £50.07, but can be as cheap as £49.88 when booked in advance. Other factors that may affect the ticket price include time of day and ticket type, so be sure to research before purchasing.

  • How long is the train from Purfleet to Cambridge?

    The journey should take, on average, 2h 27m, though it can be as quick as 1h 59m when booking specific services. Be sure to click the "Fastest" tab when searching your route to find out.

  • Is there a direct train from Purfleet to Cambridge?

    If a direct route exists: Yes, there is a direct train between Purfleet and Cambridge. However, you will find indirect services listed too, including options where you'll need to change trains. Check each listing for either "direct" or how many stops are required when purchasing your ticket.

    If no direct route exists: There is no direct service between Purfleet and Cambridge. Instead, when browsing routes, you will see our recommendations for the most convenient and time-efficient stations to change at.

  • How far in advance can I book my train from Purfleet to Cambridge?

    You can typically book tickets from Purfleet to Cambridge up to 12 weeks before departure.

  • Do Purfleet to Cambridge trains offer Wi-Fi?

    [If journeys include Merseyrail and/or Northern]: Although Wi-Fi is becoming increasingly present on rail services, it can still depend on who provides your specific route. For instance, Merseyrail and older Northern models do not offer Wi-Fi currently; all other providers do, however.

    [All others:] Yes, most trains on the route from Purfleet to Cambridge are equipped with Wi-Fi, as well as power sockets at your seat. However, please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company.

  • How far is Purfleet from Cambridge?

    The distance between Purfleet and Cambridge is approximately 49 miles (80km), depending on the specific stations you travel between.

  • How frequent are trains from Purfleet to Cambridge?

    There is 69 train running from Purfleet to Cambridge per day. Please note that trains run more regularly during peak hours.

  • How can I buy the cheapest tickets from Purfleet to Cambridge?

    To get the cheapest ticket, we recommend buying in advance, as early as 12 weeks before departure. We'd also strongly suggest travelling during off-peak hours where possible and getting a Railcard, which typically offers ⅓ off your ticket cost and is available to most travellers!

  • How do I check if my train is delayed or cancelled?

    Keep a close eye on your journey via the TrainPal app, which offers real-time information on train status and notifications of any train strikes that will impact you.

  • Can my 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 and Off-Peak 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.

* 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.