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Durham to London King's Cross trains

Speed to London King's Cross from Durham in comfort with LNER

      Easy journeys from Durham to London

      Relax and take in the stunning scenery of Northern and Central England as you speed across the country between Durham and London. With LNER, you can sit back in comfort, enjoy a range of onboard refreshments and arrive feeling ready for the day ahead , all while keeping a little extra spending money in your pocket.

      Getting to the capital is simple too. With frequent, fast services from Durham to London, you can plan your journey around you and be in the heart of the city before you know it.

      To get even more from your journey, join LNER Perks to earn credit every time you travel. Get credits on future trips, as well as exclusive treats and make your rail travel go that bit further.

      • Average travel time

        2h 58m

      • Distance

        233 miles

      Cheapest train tickets from Durham to London

        Today's train times

        Upcoming direct journeys for Durham to London King's Cross trains

        Things to do in London

        Think you've seen London? Handwritten Beatles lyrics, cat mummies from Ancient Egypt and the world's most whimsical department store.

        • m_d_weekend-break-london-spotlight

          Meet the spooky cat mummies at the British Museum

          Much is said about the British Museum's mummies of Ancient Egypt but perhaps less well-known are their feline companions.

          That's right, cat mummies. Cats ruled in Ancient Egypt, they were considered sacred.

          Cats owned by important people were often mummified, and the British Museum exhibit shows a cat that has been wrapped rather elaborately. You'll never look at your pet moggie the same way again.

          The British Museum
        • m_d_liberty

          Browse Liberty, the department store in an eccentric country house

          Liberty is a department store with a difference. From the outside it looks like a country house from the Tudor period – all black and white wood panelling and leaded windows. There’s an off-kilter, slightly eccentric feel too. Its timbers come from navy ships, and its founder was inspired by Eastern Bazaars.

          Step inside and it’s rather magical. Small wood-panelled rooms tumble into one another – full of nooks and crannies and bursting with all manner of decadent products. Browse high-end fashion, homewares and beauty products from some of the best brands around.

          Liberty
        • m_d_victoria-and-albert-museum-london

          See the world’s most famous bed at the V&A

          The Bed of Ware is an incredibly large bed that lives at the Victoria & Albert Museum.

          Curators call it ‘One of the V&A’s greatest treasures,’ and it was even mentioned by Shakespeare in Twelfth Night! So what’s so special about it? Well, it’s 3 metres wide for starters – with enough room for 4 couples (ahem).

          It became a bit of a thing to have slept in it, and visitors began to carve their names into its heavy oak frame – perhaps that’s where the phrase ‘another notch on the bedpost’ originates?

          The V&A
        • m_d_london-green-getaway-spotlight

          Sup a pint in a pub built by Sir Christopher Wren

          London is full of old pubs with magnificent histories.

          Take the Old Bell Tavern on Fleet Street – built by renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren to give people working on his St Bride’s Church designs somewhere to get a drink.

          Wren, who also designed St Paul’s Cathedral, was rebuilding the capital after the Great Fire of London had wiped much of it out in 1666. 

          By the 1700s Fleet Street was home to the nascent newspaper industry and the early printers were soon making the Bell Tavern their own

          Today, you'll still find a solid pint and an authentic atmosphere.

          The Old Bell Tavern

        A taste of London

        London is one of the world’s most dynamic food destinations bringing together traditional British flavours global influences and modern dining. From classics like fish and chips or pie and mash to innovative street food and Michelin starred restaurants the city offers something for every taste.

        Covent Garden

        Covent Garden blends historic charm with a lively dining scene. It is a great place to enjoy classic British dishes elegant restaurants and vibrant market stalls all set around cobbled streets and iconic architecture. Expect bustling cafes cosy pubs and great people watching. Getting there from London Kings Cross takes around 10 minutes by Tube or a 40 minute walk.

        Soho

        Energetic and eclectic Soho is known for its bold flavours and diverse eateries. This area is ideal for international cuisine small plates late night bites and trendy dessert spots. With narrow streets full of character it is perfect for spontaneous food adventures. Getting there from London Kings Cross takes around 10 minutes by Tube or a 40 minute walk.

        Shoreditch

        Shoreditch offers a creative urban vibe with an emphasis on independent restaurants street food and artisan coffee. It is popular for relaxed lunches modern dining and exploring London’s edgier side. You will find everything from pop ups to stylish rooftop venues. Getting there from London Kings Cross takes around 10 minutes by Tube or a 15 minute taxi journey.

        Free things to do in London

        • m_piccadilly-circus-piccadilly-lights

          Snap a selfie at world-famous Piccadilly Circus

          The huge, iconic advertising boards have made Piccadilly Circus in London’s West End one of the world’s most recognisable places.

          Known as the Piccadilly Lights, the advertising boards have carried the slogans of everyone from Coca-Cola and McDonald’s to Samsung and Burberry – Coke has been there ever since 1955!

          The lights are incredibly high tech these days, with a new screen dubbed the Curve – a 103 metre, full-motion display.

          But Piccadilly Circus has been lit up by advertising since the early 1900s. Why? Around 71,760,000 people walk past Piccadilly Lights every year.

          Picadilly Circus lights
        • m_the-british-library

          Read John Lennon’s handwritten Beatles lyrics at the British Library

          The best band the world has ever seen? Probably. The Beatles changed the face of popular culture in the '60s and created some of the 20th century's most enduring songs.

          Their appeal has endured from one generation to the next. And now you can see the original lyrics as written by Lennon and McCartney at the British Library.

          Scrutinise early versions of hugely important Lennon songs like In My Life and Strawberry Fields Forever – both of which reflect his Liverpool childhood – in the author's own, unmistakable hand.

          The British Library
        • m_d_victoria-and-albert-museum-london

          Get misty-eyed over Lego at the Museum of Childhood

          Lego holds a special place in our hearts. Whether you're a child of the flower power '60s or the yuppie '80s you'll most likely have played with the colourful conjoining bricks.

          Same goes for the thirty-somethings of today and their own children. Boxes of Lego have been passed from one generation to the next in many families.

          No wonder it was named Toy of the Century at the turn of the Millennium. Embrace the nostalgia with a look at the vintage Lego on display at the Museum of Childhood - part of the V&A.

          The Museum of Childhood

        Sport in London

        London is a city where sport is part of everyday life. Whether you are a dedicated sports fan or just enjoy being active, the city makes it easy to get involved.

        Football

        Home to Arsenal FC at Emirates Stadium and Tottenham Hotspur (Tottenham Hotspur Stadium), London’s football scene is full of passion and local rivalry. The surrounding areas are lively and offer a chance to soak up local football culture. From London King’s Cross it is about a 45 minute walk or a 35 minute bus ride to Emirates Stadium. Tottenham Hotspur Stadium is around 45 minutes from London King’s Cross.

        Rugby

        Rugby has a proud tradition in London and Twickenham Stadium is the heart of it. Hosting international matches, professional club games and major events, it is a must visit for fans and newcomers alike. Getting there from London King’s Cross takes around 60 minutes.

        Snow sports

        The Snow Centre in Hemel Hempstead is one of the UK’s leading indoor slopes. Perfect for skiing, snowboarding or tubing, it offers safe and scenic sessions for all abilities with lessons, practice runs and fun activities available all year. A train and short connection from London King’s Cross takes roughly 50 minutes or a taxi takes about 50 minutes.

        Cycling and BMX

        London is ideal for cycling enthusiasts and BMX riders. Lee Valley VeloPark in Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park provides open circuits, a world class velodrome and BMX tracks for tricks and training, giving a fresh way to see the city. Only a 65 minute walk or a 25 minute train and walk from London King’s Cross.

        Family-friendly things to do in London

        • m_d_weekend-break-london-spotlight

          Meet the spooky cat mummies at the British Museum

          Much is said about the British Museum's mummies of Ancient Egypt but perhaps less well-known are their feline companions.

          That's right, cat mummies. Cats ruled in Ancient Egypt, they were considered sacred.

          Cats owned by important people were often mummified, and the British Museum exhibit shows a cat that has been wrapped rather elaborately. You'll never look at your pet moggie the same way again.

          The British Museum
        • Explore London Zoo

          Come face to face with lions, tigers, gorillas and hundreds of other fascinating animals at London Zoo, one of the world’s most famous wildlife attractions.

          With a wide variety of habitats from the tropical rainforests of the Rainforest Life exhibit to the icy realms of Penguin Beach there is always something new to explore. Children can enjoy hands on learning experiences, animal feeding sessions and interactive play areas, making it a perfect destination for school holidays. Families can also take advantage of a range of ticket offers including group discounts and seasonal deals, making a fun and educational day out more affordable than ever.

          London Zoo
        • The Paddington Bear™ Experience

          Step into the world of everyone’s favourite marmalade‑loving bear in this walk‑through adventure in central London. Families help Paddington and the Browns prepare for a big celebration, moving through beautifully recreated sets, from Paddington Station to Windsor Gardens, with plenty of hands‑on moments along the way. It’s playful, story‑led and perfect for younger kids.

          The Paddington Bear Experience
        • m_d_london_0186

          Monopoly Lifesized

          Bring the classic board game to life at this giant, interactive Monopoly experience. Families work together on a life‑sized board, taking on physical and mental challenges inspired by London landmarks as they race to buy properties and beat the clock. It’s high‑energy, immersive fun that’s great for older kids and teens.

          Monopoly lifesized
        • London riverside

          Shrek’s Adventure! London

          Join Shrek, Donkey and the whole DreamWorks gang on this laugh‑out‑loud, walk‑through adventure on London’s South Bank. Families travel through a series of interactive sets, from a magical flying bus to the Poison Apple Pub, meeting live actors and beloved characters along the way. It’s high‑energy, silly fun that brings the world of Far Far Away to life for kids and grown‑ups alike.

          Shrek's Adventure London

        Shopping in London

        London is a brilliant city for shopping, combining iconic streets with modern retail spaces and a lively atmosphere.

        Oxford Street and Regent Street

        One of the city’s main shopping destinations is Oxford Street and Regent Street, known for their grand buildings and an impressive mix of flagship stores. Here, visitors can explore well known brands, beauty favourites and popular fashion in a busy yet inspiring setting. Getting there from London King's Cross station usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes whether you take the tube, catch the bus or take a taxi.

        Westfield London

        Another key shopping area is Westfield London, a large retail destination offering a wide choice of fashion, beauty, lifestyle brands and places to eat. With its bright open layout and variety of shops, it is ideal for a full day out with everything in one place. Getting there from London King's Cross station usually takes around 30 minutes whether you take the tube, go by bus or grab a taxi.

        Covent Garden

        For a more relaxed shopping experience, Covent Garden offers a mix of independent boutiques, well known brands and historic market halls. The area is known for its lively atmosphere, street performers and charming side streets such as Seven Dials and Neal’s Yard, making it a great place to explore at a slower pace. Getting there from London Kings Cross station usually takes around 15 minutes by tube or taxi.

        Carnaby Street and Soho

        Just a short walk from Oxford Circus, Carnaby Street and the surrounding Soho area are known for their creative spirit and fashion‑forward shops. Shoppers will find independent labels, global brands and unique concept stores spread across pedestrian streets and hidden courtyards. Getting there from London King's Cross station usually takes around 15 to 20 minutes by tube or taxi.

        King’s Road, Chelsea

        For something a little more refined, King’s Road in Chelsea is home to stylish boutiques, British heritage brands and elegant homeware stores. With its relaxed pace and café‑lined streets, it is ideal for a leisurely afternoon of browsing. Getting there from London King's Cross station usually takes around 30 to 35 minutes by tube or taxi.

        Connections from London King's Cross station

        Train connections

        Local buses and the tube

        Taxis

        Walking

        Standard and First Class facilities

        Whether you choose Standard or First Class, you’ll enjoy comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi and power sockets. Standard Class offers great value with food and drinks available to purchase, while First Class elevates the experience with wider reclining seats, faster Wi-Fi and complimentary dining plus lounge access at major stations.

        • LNER Standard Coach

          Standard

        • first class

          First Class

        Facility

        Standard

        First class

        Seating

        Ergonomic seats, good legroom

        Wider, reclining seats with extra legroom

        Wi-Fi

        Free Wi-Fi

        Free Wi-Fi

        Power

        Power sockets at all seats

        Power sockets and USB charging points at every seat

        Food & drink

        Purchase from Café Bar or “Lets Eat At Your Seat” service

        Complimentary food and drink service (menu varies by time of day)

        Alcohol

        Available for purchase

        Complimentary with lunch/evening menus

        Quiet coach

        Available

        Quieter environment throughout

        First class lounges

        Not available for standard

        Access to First Class lounges at selected stations

        Luggage

        Overhead racks and carriage-end storage

        Extra luggage space

        Accessibility

        Accessible toilets and wheelchair spaces

        Accessible toilets and wheelchair spaces

        Extras

        Baby-changing facilities

        Baby-changing facilities

        Booking tickets for Durham to London

        Booking directly with LNER is the easiest way to get your train tickets to travel from Edinburgh to London. You’ll have access to all fares, the best prices and the ability to manage your journey to London online or via the LNER App. Booking direct also gives you access to seat reservations, LNER Perks and the flexibility to change or refund tickets depending on the type.

        Advance tickets

        Family single tickets

        Anytime tickets

        Group tickets

        70min Flex tickets

        Season tickets

        Durham to London train tickets are available in a range of options to suit different travel needs and budgets. Advance tickets offer the best value when booked ahead for a specific train while Anytime tickets provide full flexibility to travel on any service during the day. For added freedom without the full Anytime ticket price, 70min Flex tickets allow travel up to 70 minutes before or after your booked time.

        Families and groups can benefit from great value Family Single tickets and group travel discounts, making it easier and more affordable to travel together. For frequent travellers, Season tickets offer unlimited journeys between Durham and London over a set period, delivering convenience and long-term savings. Together these ticket types ensure there’s an option for every journey style from planned trips to flexible travel.

        How to get to Durham

        • Station address

          Durham station

          North Road

          Durham

          County Durham

          DH1 4RB

        • Car parking

          There is car parking available at Durham station on the station approach, open 24 hours a day 7 days a week

        • Local transport

          Durham station is a central transport hub served by a wide range of local bus routes.

        Things to do near Durham

        Station facilities

        Durham railway station offers a range of essentials to make your journey comfortable, including waiting areas, ticket facilities and free Wi‑Fi. You’ll also find step‑free access to platforms and convenient parking options nearby.

        Coffee spots

        For a pre‑journey pick‑me‑up, there’s a Costa Coffee inside the station, perfect for grabbing a hot drink and a snack before you travel.

        Restaurants and bars

        Just a short walk from the station, you’ll find a great selection of places to eat. The Head of Steam near the station serves a wide range of craft beers and pub classics, while Flat White Kitchen by the river offers brunch favourites and freshly prepared dishes in a relaxed setting.

        Shopping

        Head into Durham city centre, just a few minutes away on foot, where you’ll find a mix of independent boutiques and high street shops along Saddler Street and in Prince Bishops Place shopping centre.

        Cultural attractions

        Durham Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is within easy walking distance and offers stunning architecture and breathtaking views. Right beside it, Durham Castle adds to the city’s rich history and heritage.

        Unique experiences

        Take a scenic walk along the River Wear, where you can enjoy picturesque views of the cathedral and surrounding countryside, or explore the charming cobbled streets that make Durham such a memorable place to visit.

        For all Durham facilities, visit the station page.

        Durham station

        Get a little extra with your journey

        Not only will you never pay a booking fee when you book your ticket with LNER, you can also sign up for LNER Perks.

        When you sign up for Perks, you'll get:

        • Get £5 free to spend on your next journey

        • 2% back on all LNER journeys

        Download the LNER app or find out more about LNER Perks and sign up today.

        Join LNER Perks

        How to book cheap tickets for your Durham to London train

        • Book your Durham to London train in advance

          Buying your Durham to London train ticket at least four weeks in advance ahead of your travel date can save you up to 47%* on on-the-day train ticket prices.

          Buy a Standard Advance ticket through the LNER website and app at least four weeks before you travel, and you'll save up to 47%* compared to buying any Standard ticket on the day of travel.

          Book in advance
        • Save 1/3 on your Durham to London train with a Railcard

          A Railcard is a discount card that allows you to save money on train travel throughout Great Britain, which often offers 1/3 off the cost of your train tickets on most routes.

          Railcards
        • Save 77%** on high-speed Durham to London trains

          Travel between 17 cities and save on average 77%** when you're travelling with up to two adults and four children. Use one Family ticket for the whole family and get a reserved seat for everyone.

          Family Singles

        * Saving average based on all Standard Advance tickets bought on the LNER website and App at least four weeks before you travel vs buying any Standard ticket on the day you travel.

        ** Average saving is based on two adults and two children travelling with an LNER Family Single vs Advance fare.

        Take the Durham to London train with LNER

        Taking the high-speed Durham to London train is quick and easy with LNER.

        Covering a distance of 233 miles, our trains from Durham to London King's Cross take just 2h 58m.

        Once on-board, you'll be able to order food directly to your seat, browse the internet with free Wi-Fi, and charge your phone with a plug at every table.

        And for a more luxurious Durham to London train journey, travel First Class – with wider seats, complimentary food and drinks, and use of our First Class lounges at London King's Cross.

        What is the cheapest way to get from Durham to London King’s Cross by train?

        Are there direct trains from Durham to London King’s Cross?

        Which rail lines go through Durham?

        Which rail lines go through London King’s Cross?

        Can you buy a Season Ticket between Durham and London King’s Cross?

        Do you offer a student discount on train tickets?

        How can I apply for compensation if my train is delayed or cancelled?

        Book with confidence

        Book together, save 20%
        No booking fees, ever
        Pick your own seats
        One-click Delay Repay
        £5 free with LNER Perks
        2% back with LNER Perks
        Greener choice