Grand Central is an open-access passenger train operator, which means we do not receive subsidy from, or pay any premium to the Department for Transport. We carry passengers from London Kings Cross to York and the North East and to Doncaster and West Yorkshire.

When you choose to travel with Grand Central you choose rail travel as it should be – reliable, relaxing and with exceptional service.You can buy a ticket on the train without paying a penalty for last minute travel, or buy your ticket in advance online, at the station or by phone from as little as £12 each way.

A better way to travel:

• Honest, easy to understand fares
• Convenient station stops
• Comfortable seats with more legroom
• Friendly, helpful on board staff
• Free Wi-Fi, power points and room to work
• Delicious food and drink from local suppliers

In January 2012, we were delighted to receive 95% satisfaction in the National Passenger Survey. Over 50, 000 passengers from across the UK had their say on rail travel and we are delighted to come out with an overall satisfaction level of 95% - the top of the league compared to other train operating companies.  Read all about it here. 

Our history and philosophy

Grand Central reaches the parts of the country other services don’t – directly linking large cities in Yorkshire and the North East with London, often for the first time in years. Grand Central aims to provide the best possible customer service, recreating the best of the railway tradition of quality and attention to detail. You’ll find our staff really do care about you and your comfort - after all, we’d like you to travel with us again.

Grand Central’s first route was launched in December 2007 and linked London Kings Cross with York, Thirsk, Northallerton, Eaglescliffe, Hartlepool and Sunderland.  In May 2010, a new service calling at Bradford, Halifax, Brighouse, Wakefield, Pontefract and Doncaster linked West Yorkshire with London Kings Cross.  On 11 December 2011, Grand Central began calling at Mirfield on the West Riding route. 

We work hard to recruit and train staff for our trains. Our committed and passionate people are our most valuable asset, and we always get involved with our local communities and charitable events.  

On 4 November 2011, Grand Central Railway became part of the Arriva Group.  

Grand Central’s 2,660mph train

Experience the fastest rail travel ever without leaving your seat, with Grand Central's 2,660 mph train - travel from Sunderland to London and London to Bradford from the driver’s point of view, in under 6 minutes each way! Watch the videos here.