York to London train routes | Grand Central Rail

Making your way into the busy capital soon? With five Grand Central direct services daily, getting from York to London by train couldn’t be easier.

Whether you’ve got plans to catch up with friends over dinner, have booked to see a show, or need to be in the capital for a business meeting, you are sure to find a journey to suit you.

In a bid to encourage our customers to explore the wonderful destinations along our routes this summer – and beyond – we’ve created an exciting series of videos that have all been shot from the comfort of Grand Central’s very own train carriages on four of our key journeys. You can view the journey between York to London via our 'Take the Scenic Route' videos on the links below:

York to London Kings Cross, Doncaster to London Kings Cross, and Sunderland (East view)

York to London Kings Cross, Doncaster to London Kings Cross, and Sunderland (West view)

No matter the reason for your trip, why not hop on one of our trains from York to London to ensure that you arrive comfortably? See below for more information on the journey itself, York to London train ticket options and how to book your fare.

What are the train times from York to London?

Our Grand Central trains run a direct service for this journey four times per day, meaning that you will be able to find a train time from York to London to suit you. Once you’ve made yourself comfortable in your seat, you won’t have to worry about making any changes along the way. Typically, our trains from York to London King’s Cross will take around two hours, so you can use that time to sit back, relax, and think about all the exciting things you are going to get up to in the capital.

What services are available on a York to London train?

There are so many reasons to travel with Grand Central. Once you’ve settled into your seat, you can begin to take advantage of all the on-board facilities on offer. From our food and drink offerings to our free Wi-Fi, we will do everything we can to ensure your journey is an enjoyable one.

For those passengers that prefer to travel in a more luxurious setting, our First Class fares are perfect. Not only will you receive complimentary refreshments, but you will also benefit from extra leg room – providing you with an ample amount of space to stretch out.

Which ticket do I need for my York to London train?

There are many types of tickets available for your journey into London. Once you have decided on your preferred route, class and time of day you’d like to travel, you can find the option that suits you best.

Will you be looking to travel outside the usual busy commuting hours on weekdays? If so, it will be worthwhile to browse our Off-peak tickets from York to London.

If you can be flexible with your travel preferences, an Anytime ticket will be most suitable for you, but if instead you know the exact time and date you’d like to travel, you can opt for an Advance ticket.

How can I secure cheap train tickets from York to London?

While the cost of train tickets from York to London King’s Cross can vary, they are usually cheaper when booked in advance, rather than last-minute. If you’re searching for cheap train tickets from York to London King’s Cross, you should consider booking an Advance fare.

Another way that you can save money on your journey is by signing up for a Railcard. No matter whether you’re aged 16 to 25, between 26 and 30 years old, a senior, or disabled, there are a wide range of Railcards available to choose from – and they can save you up to 1/3 on your fare.

How do I book tickets for my York to London train?

Booking your train tickets from York to London is easy when you choose to travel with Grand Central. Simply input all your travel details in our journey planner and from there you’ll find a variety of ticket options.

After you have selected a fare that works best for you, you can choose from a range of ticket delivery options including an e-ticket, collection at the station or via the post. Once you’ve completed this step, all you have to do is review your order, complete the payment and your York to London tickets will be secured!

Things to do in London

No matter whether you want to sightsee, attend an event, or go on a shopping spree, there is something for everyone to enjoy in London. During the day, head to some of the capital’s most famous landmarks, including the London Eye, Buckingham Palace and St. Paul’s Cathedral, before unwinding over dinner and drinks in Camden at night.

If the weather is nice, walk the Thames Path on the South Bank, where you will be able to witness the Houses of Parliament and Tower Bridge. If you’re bringing the kids, you also have the option to take them to see the animals at ZSL London Zoo.

For more activity ideas, make sure you browse our London destination page.

Timetable - NE Southbound

Sunderland to London Kings Cross

Peak services (except Fridays)
Service running Monday only

Monday - Friday
Sunderland	06:46	08:53	09:54	12:30	15:30	17:30
Hartlepool	07:12	09:15	10:17	12:55	15:54	17:56
Eaglescliffe	07:35	09:39	10:41	13:14	16:15	18:19
Northallerton	07:55	09:59	10:59	13:39	16:33	18:42
Thirsk	08:03	10:08	11:09	13:48	16:43	18:52
York	08:22	10:26	11:41	14:07	17:03	19:12
London Kings Cross (arrive)	10:14	12:31	13:54	16:08	19:08	21:07

Saturday
Sunderland	06:43	08:29	09:55	12:18	15:29	17:30
Hartlepool	07:08	08:54	10:20	12:42	15:53	17:54
Eaglescliffe	07:35	09:15	10:42	13:01	16:13	18:14
Northallerton	07:55	09:33	11:04	13:19	16:33	18:32
Thirsk	08:04	09:46	11:21	13:28	16:43	18:43
York	08:22	10:09	11:50	13:48	17:06	19:02
London Kings Cross (arrive)	10:14	12:14	13:50	15:44	19:06	20:59

Sunday
Sunderland	09:23	10:28	12:12	14:14	18:12
Hartlepool	09:47	10:52	12:36	14:39	18:36
Eaglescliffe	10:07	11:11	12:57	14:58	18:57
Northallerton	10:25	11:33	13:15	15:15	19:20
Thirsk	10:34	11:42	13:25	15:24	19:29
York	10:54	12:08	13:47	15:47	19:49
London Kings Cross (arrive)	12:41	13:55	15:42	17:42	21:42

One-way system in operation at London King's Cross
Please be aware that due to COVID-19 restrictions, a one-way system is in operation at London King's Cross station. Please allow additional time for transfers when travelling to or from the station, particularly when using the London Underground.