No booking fees on the app

No booking fees on the app

Best Price Promise

Best Price Promise

Delay Repay

Delay Repay

24/7 customer support

24/7 customer support

  1. Home
  2. Train Journey
  3. York to London Kings Cross

York to London Kings Cross train ticket prices

Travelling from York to London Kings Cross by train? Find fares from as low as £15.10. 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

£15.10󰄽

On Mon 12

  • £33.30󰄽
    Sat10Oct
  • £43.50󰄽
    Sun11Oct
  • Mon12Oct
  • £27.00󰄽
    Tue13Oct
  • £41.20󰄽
    Wed14Oct
  • £28.30󰄽
    Thu15Oct
  • £30.20󰄽
    Fri16Oct

York to London Kings Cross train timetable

Journey from York to London Kings Cross on the fastest train in 1h 53m, usually 2h 6m. Every day, 68 trains leave from York, starting at 04:40 and ending at 22:05. During Off-Peak Times from 09:30 on weekdays, enjoy a quieter and less crowded journey. Get real-time updates on train schedules, delays, and cancellations. Save time, effort, and money with us.

DepartsArrivesOperator

15:17

York
1h 53m, Direct

17:10

London Kings Cross
LNER
Find tickets

15:31

York
2h 1m, Direct

17:32

London Kings Cross
LNER
Find tickets

15:55

York
2h 6m, Direct

18:01

London Kings Cross
LNER
Find tickets

16:17

York
1h 54m, Direct

18:11

London Kings Cross
LNER
Find tickets

16:27

York
2h 11m, Direct

18:38

London Kings Cross
LNER
Find tickets
View More Trains

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 £15.10
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
173 miles (278km)
Journey time
1h 53m
First train
04:40
Last train
22:05
Frequency
68
Train operators

LNER vs Grand Central: Which one to choose?

By Jay Harlow | Updated May 20, 2026
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
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.

Why book York to London Kings Cross trains with TrainPal?

  • Why book with TrainPal vs Trainline?

    TrainPal's Split Ticket feature automatically divides your journey into multiple ticket segments, saving up to 50% compared to buying a single through ticket. Train fares from York to London Kings Cross start from just £15.10 on TrainPal.

  • Is TrainPal cheaper than buying direct?

    TrainPal is often cheaper than buying direct. We don't charge any booking fees, and our Split Ticketing technology searches for the lowest fare combination across your entire journey—something train operator websites don't offer. Plus, we compare prices across multiple operators (e.g., LNER, Grand Central on the York to London Kings Cross route) in a single search, so you always see the cheapest option regardless of which company operates the train.

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 53m, 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?

The average ticket fare from York to London Kings Cross is about £15.10, but prices are dynamic. The final cost depends on when you book, when you travel, and ticket flexibility. To find the exact cost for your journey, please search with your travel dates.

What is the best way to travel from York to London Kings Cross by train?

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 fastest train journey time from York to London Kings Cross is 1h 53m. 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 York to London Kings Cross?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from York to London Kings Cross. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.

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

Yes, choosing the train offers an excellent blend of comfort, speed, and convenience. It's a more relaxing and sustainable option than driving, allowing you to bypass traffic and parking hassles. While coaches might have lower fares, the train provides a superior travel experience with more space and a more flexible timetable. Its key advantage is arriving directly in the city centre, making it one of the most efficient ways to reach your destination.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

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 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?

Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.

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?

Make use of our Train Journey Planner for detailed transfer information, ensuring your journey is smooth and efficient, saving you valuable time and effort, and allowing you to rest completely for your travels.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific 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, in the UK, students and seniors can benefit from various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard offers students up to 1/3 off most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy similar savings. Both Railcards can be purchased online or at train stations and are valid for one year, providing great value for frequent travellers

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?

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 route from York to London Kings Cross is operated by LNER. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.

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

    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 typically travel for free. A 50% discount applies to children aged 5 to 15. Additionally, those aged 16 and 17 are eligible for a 50% discount with a 16-17 Saver Railcard.

  • 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

    For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its 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.

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.
󰄶
󰄽

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?

To claim compensation for a delay (Delay Repay): If your train was delayed, cancelled, or impacted by a strike, you can find live service updates and find out how to claim on our delays and disruptions page or UK rail strike page.

* 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.