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York to London Kings Cross train ticket prices

Travelling from York to London Kings Cross by train? Find fares from as low as £23.60. 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

£23.60󰄽

On Sat 04 Apr

  • £28.80󰄽
    Mon30 Mar
  • £28.30󰄽
    Tue31 Mar
  • £25.60󰄽
    Wed01 Apr
  • £31.70󰄽
    Thu02 Apr
  • £33.60󰄽
    Fri03 Apr
  • Sat04 Apr
  • £52.70󰄽
    Sun05 Apr

York to London Kings Cross train timetable

From York to London Kings Cross, take the fastest train in 1h 50m, typically 2h 4m. Daily, 70 trains depart from York, with the first at 04:40 and the last at 22:59. During Off-Peak times starting at 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter space with fewer people. Check real-time updates for train times, delays, and cancellations. We save you time, effort, and money.

DepartsArrivesOperator

04:40

York
2h 20m, Direct

07:00

London Kings Cross
LNER
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05:43

York
3h 4m, 1 change

08:47

London Kings Cross
Northern
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05:55

York
2h 6m, Direct

08:01

London Kings Cross
LNER
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06:10

York
2h 6m, Direct

08:16

London Kings Cross
LNER
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06:30

York
2h 4m, Direct

08:34

London Kings Cross
LNER
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York to London Kings Cross train tickets and times

Plan your journey from York to London Kings Cross 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 £23.60
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
172 miles (277km)
Journey time
1h 50m
First train
04:40
Last train
22:59
Frequency
70

LNER vs Grand Central: Which one to choose?

Travelling by train from York to London King’s Cross is one of the fastest and most convenient ways to reach the capital from northern England. London North Eastern Railway (LNER) and Grand Central run direct services throughout the day, covering roughly 172 miles along the East Coast Main Line in around 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours.

The table below provides a quick comparison so you can decide which operator best suits your travel needs.

Train operators

Avg. duration

Departure station

Best for

Featured services

LNER

1h 59m

York

Flexibility & speed

Frequent 2–4 services per hour, modern Azuma trains, strong Wi-Fi, high-quality First Class dining

Grand Central

2h

York

Budget & comfort

Lower walk-up fares, spacious seating with more tables, and free Wi-Fi for all passengers

Key comparison facts:

  • Frequency: LNER runs the majority of trains on this route with 2–4direct services hourly, while Grand Central usually operates around 5–6 trains per day.
  • Onboard experience: LNER’s Azuma fleet provides power sockets at every seat and faster Wi-Fi. Grand Central trains are praised for more legroom and a higher proportion of table seating in Standard Class.
  • First Class: LNER provides a premium First Class experience, including station lounge access and complimentary hot meals, whereas Grand Central offers light refreshments and snacks.

Train travels from York to London King's Cross

The York to London King’s Cross route is one of the most important rail corridors in the UK, connecting northern England with the capital along the East Coast Main Line. With fast journey times and frequent departures, it is widely used by both commuters and leisure travellers.

Departure from York

York Railway Station is a major northern rail hub handling over 115 train movements daily and roughly 69 direct services to London. The station features 11 platforms beneath its distinctive curved roof, with LNER trains typically departing every 27–30 minutes during the day.

Specific transport links

  • Park & Ride network: Askham Bar Line 3 provides a frequent and direct link to the station entrance.
  • Local buses: Routes 7 and 10 stop outside on Station Road beside the main station forecourt.
  • Cycling access: Around 60 secure bike racks are available in the short-stay station car park.
  • Taxi rank: Licensed taxis operate from the dedicated rank beneath the station portico.

Station layout

  • Platform 3: Primary departure point for fast LNER services heading south to London King’s Cross.
  • Platforms 5, 6 and 7: Often used for additional London departures depending on scheduling.
  • Main concourse: Central area containing ticket barriers, information boards, and retail outlets.

Pre-departure essentials

Inside the concourse, you will find WHSmith and M&S Simply Food for quick meal deals and travel essentials. Coffee chains such as Starbucks and Costa Coffee are located near the entrance and just inside the ticket barriers.

Onboard trains from York to London King's Cross

LNER Azuma trains complete the York–London route at speeds up to 125mph, with the fastest journeys taking around 110 minutes. With roughly three departures per hour at peak times, passengers benefit from frequent service and a smooth ride powered mainly by electric traction.

The scenic side

Sit on the left-hand side heading south for views of farmland and landscapes across the Vale of York.

Key landmarks

  • Peterborough Cathedral: Its distinctive Gothic facade is visible as you slow into Peterborough station.
  • Stoke Bank: Historic stretch where the Mallard locomotive set its world speed record in 1938.
  • Grantham countryside: Brief views of rolling Lincolnshire fields as the train accelerates south.
  • Alexandra Palace: Hilltop landmark visible shortly before reaching London King’s Cross.

Arriving at London King's Cross

London King’s Cross operates 11 main platforms, making it one of the busiest rail hubs in the UK. As the southern terminus for LNER, trains from York arrive several times per hour, placing passengers directly in central London with excellent onward transport links.

The correct exit

  • Main concourse exit: Leads directly onto Euston Road and the central transport interchange.
  • Great Northern Hotel side: A useful landmark when orienting yourself outside the main entrance.
  • Platform 9 area exit: Leads toward the popular Platform 9¾ photo spot and retail area.
  • Waitrose side exit: Provides the quickest access to the covered black-cab taxi rank.

Onward travel

  • London Underground: Access to the Victoria, Piccadilly, Circle, Metropolitan, and Hammersmith & City lines.
  • Local buses: Major routes operate from stops on Euston Road and York Way outside the station.
  • St Pancras International: Three-minute walk across the square for Eurostar and Thameslink services.
  • Santander Cycles: Public cycle hire docks nearby provide a quick option for short city trips.

Walkability

King’s Cross sits in a well-connected part of central London with several major attractions nearby. The British Library is around seven minutes on foot, while Coal Drops Yard, a redeveloped shopping and dining district behind the station, can be reached in about five minutes. Although areas like the West End or the City are further away, the Underground makes most central destinations reachable within fifteen minutes.

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

York to London Kings Cross train travel guide

Travelling by train from York to London Kings Cross is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from York, you can reach London Kings Cross in just 1h 50m, 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 York to London Kings Cross?

Ticket prices from York to London Kings Cross average around £23.60, 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 York to London Kings Cross?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare York to London Kings Cross 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 York to London Kings Cross?

The quickest train journey from York to London Kings Cross takes 1h 50m . Utilise our Train Journey Planner to locate direct trains, minimise transfers, and compare travel times across various routes. Discover the most efficient way to travel with fewer stops for a smooth and seamless journey.

Are there direct trains from York to London Kings Cross?

No, you will need to transfer when travelling from York to London Kings Cross. TrainPal Train Journey Planner will assist you in finding the best train route. Enter the origin or destination places and other relevant details, then click "Search" to find the most suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from York to London Kings Cross?

Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.

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 York to London Kings Cross train timetables?

York to London Kings Cross trains are generally punctual, but delays or cancellations can occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. After purchasing a ticket, use TrainPal to track live train updates. Before buying a ticket, our Train Journey Planner provides all necessary booking information. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations, click 'Search,' and view routes labelled 'Cheapest' or 'Fastest,' with all details displayed.

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

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

Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by 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, the refund and exchange policies for train tickets vary depending on the type of ticket purchased. Advance Tickets are usually non-refundable but can sometimes be exchanged for a fee. Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets offer more generous refund and exchange options. Always check the terms and conditions of your ticket or visit UK train ticket types for specific details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.

Which train companies operate the York to London Kings Cross route?

The York to London Kings Cross route is operated by CrossCountry. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    Each passenger is permitted to bring up to 3 pieces of luggage at no extra cost. This can include a combination of items such as suitcases, backpacks, and satchels.

  • 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

    Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. 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

    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 York to London Kings Cross train tickets

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

Step-by-step instructions for changing your journey or requesting a refund are available on our ticket refunds and changes page.

Your train was disrupted?

If your journey was affected by a delay, cancellation, or strike, please visit our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page. There, you will find live service information and instructions on how to claim Delay Repay compensation.

* 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.