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Retford to London King's Cross trains

      Travel to the capital in comfort

      Relax and gaze out at the stunning scenery of the English countryside as you speed across the country between Retford and London.

      The refreshments and comfy seats onboard our trains mean you'll always ride in style - and with LNER's cheap Advance tickets, you'll have extra spending money when you arrive.

      • Average travel time

        1h 38m

      • Distance

        128 miles

      Cheapest train tickets from Retford to London

      Today's train times

      Upcoming direct journeys for Retford 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.

      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

      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

      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 from Retford to London

      Booking directly with LNER is the easiest way to get your train tickets to travel from Retford 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

      Retford 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 Retford 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 Retford

      • Station address

        Retford station
        Station Road
        Retford
        Nottinghamshire
        DN22 7DE

      • Car Parking

        The nearest car parking available to Retford station is at the Retford station car park which is parking facility open 24 hours a day 7 days a week.

      • Local transport

        A taxi rank is located outside the station.

      Things to do near Retford station

      Station facilities

      Inside Retford station you’ll find essential facilities to make your journey comfortable, including sheltered waiting areas, seating, toilets with baby‑changing facilities, ticket machines and public Wi‑Fi. The station is staffed throughout the day and offers step‑free access across platforms, with Passenger Assist available if needed.

      Coffee spots

      There’s a coffee shop located on Platform 1, making it easy to grab a hot drink before boarding your train from Retford.

      Restaurants and bars

      Retford town centre is a short walk from the station and offers a good mix of places to eat. Popular nearby options include The Brew Shed on Carolgate for burgers and craft beer, or Sun Inn Pub & Kitchen for classic pub food in a relaxed setting.

      Shopping

      Retford is a traditional market town with a compact high street full of independent shops, cafés and local businesses. Wander into the town centre to explore Market Square and the surrounding streets for gifts, food and everyday essentials.

      Cultural attractions

      Visit Bassetlaw Museum, located in an 18th‑century house in the town centre, to explore local history, art and exhibitions. For live entertainment, Retford Majestic Theatre hosts plays, comedy and touring shows throughout the year.

      Unique experiences

      Enjoy a peaceful stroll through King’s Park, an award‑winning green space close to the town centre, or take a walk along the Chesterfield Canal, which runs through Retford and offers scenic waterside views.

      For all Retford facilities, visit the station page.

      Retford 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 a Retford to London train

      * 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.

      Take the train to London from Retford with LNER

      Taking the train from Retford to London is quick and easy with LNER. Covering a distance of 128 miles, our trains to London to Retford take just 1h 38m.

      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 Retford to London King's Cross train journey, travel First Class – with wider seats, complimentary food and drinks and use of our London King's Cross First Class lounge.

      Are there direct trains between Retford and London King's Cross?

      Which rail lines go through London King's Cross?

      Can you buy a Season Ticket between Retford 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