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Trains from Ayr to
Ilkley

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Ayr to Ilkley by train

A train trip from Ayr to Ilkley takes about 6hrs 59 mins on average, covering roughly 154 miles (248 kilometres). With around 16 trains running each day, there's plenty of flexibility for your travel plans. If you book in advance, you can grab tickets starting from just £31.50, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Ayr to Ilkley Key Stats

Arrival Station

Ilkley

Departure Station

Ayr

Frequency

16trains
per day

Journey Time

from6hrs 12 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:15 / 00:01

Distance

154miles
(248 km)

7 Routes

6 Train Operators

Prices

from£31.50

Travelling from Ayr to Ilkley by Train

Hop on a Train from Ayr to Ilkley – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Ayr to Ilkley by train? Well, you've come to the right place – and don’t worry, it won’t take forever!

On average, the journey takes around 6hrs 59 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Ilkley), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 6hrs 12 mins. With roughly 16 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 154-mile (248 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast, ScotRail, CrossCountry, First TransPennine Express, all of whom offer comfy seats and plenty of luggage space – because, let’s face it, nobody likes a cramped train!

The best part? Tickets start from just £31.50 if you book in advance, which is a much better deal than scrambling for tickets on the day. Want to save even more? Travelling during Off-Peak hours or flashing a Railcard can help you keep more money in your wallet.

So, ready to snag those cheap tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest prices and make your wallet happy. Keep scrolling for more travel tips, or check out our timetable above for live train times. Time to choo-choo your way to Ilkley!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Ayr and Ilkley

Curious about your trip from Ayr to Ilkley? We've put together answers to the most commonly asked questions from our customers to make planning your journey easier.

How long does it take to travel between Ayr and Ilkley by train?

The travel time between Ayr and Ilkley by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 6hrs 59 mins & the fastest journey takes 6hrs 12 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Ayr and Ilkley by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Ayr to Ilkley is 6hrs 12 mins.

How much does the train from Ayr to Ilkley cost?

Train ticket prices from Ayr to Ilkley can start from as little as £31.50 when you book in advance. The cost of tickets can vary depending on the time of day, route and class you book and are usually more expensive if you book on the day.

What are the departure and arrival times for trains between Ayr and Ilkley?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Ayr and Ilkley vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 16 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:15, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:01.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Ayr and Ilkley?

First class tickets on trains between Ayr and Ilkley typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Ayr and Ilkley?

Amenities on trains between Ayr and Ilkley can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Ayr to Ilkley by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Ayr and Ilkley. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Ilkley, and can save you up to 90%! Simply search for your journey, and be assured we have found you the best possible price.

Is it possible to take a direct train from Ayr to Ilkley?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Ayr & Ilkley. However, there are 16 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Ayr to Ilkley?

Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway, Avanti West Coast, ScotRail, CrossCountry and First TransPennine Express are the main train operating companies running services between Ayr and Ilkley.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Ayr and Ilkley?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Ayr and Ilkley, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Ayr to Ilkley Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Ayr to Ilkley on Friday 25th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

Alternatively, you can view the full day's schedule or search for a different date here!

Friday 25th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
11:05 Ayr16:48 Ilkley3 changesGlasgow Central
Lancaster
Shipley (Yorks)
5 hrs 43 mins Get Tickets
11:35 Ayr17:53 Ilkley3 changesGlasgow Central
Carlisle
Shipley (Yorks)
6 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
12:05 Ayr19:02 Ilkley3 changesGlasgow Central
Edinburgh
Leeds
6 hrs 57 mins Get Tickets
14:05 Ayr19:49 Ilkley3 changesGlasgow Central
Lancaster
Shipley (Yorks)
5 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
14:35 Ayr21:31 Ilkley3 changesGlasgow Central
Preston (Lancs)
Leeds
6 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
15:19 Ayr21:48 Ilkley3 changesKilmarnock
Carlisle
Shipley (Yorks)
6 hrs 29 mins Get Tickets
16:05 Ayr22:47 Ilkley3 changesGlasgow Central
Lancaster
Shipley (Yorks)
6 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
17:05 Ayr23:47 Ilkley3 changesGlasgow Central
Carlisle
Shipley (Yorks)
6 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
18:05 Ayr06:28 Ilkley3 changesGlasgow Central
Edinburgh
Leeds
12 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
23:05 Ayr09:19 Ilkley3 changesGlasgow Central
Lancaster
Shipley (Yorks)
10 hrs 14 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Ayr to Ilkley journeys?

From booking in Advance, to our FairSplits, here are our tips for you to find the best price

Advance Tickets

A single ticket for one journey leaving at a specific date and time.

The rule is: the sooner you book the cheaper they are. Usually the cheapest, but least flexible.

Advance fares from Ayr to Ilkley start from as little as £31.50

Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak Tickets

Offering greater flexibility than Advances, Off-Peak tickets offer travel during less busy times of day trading off more flexibility in the Off-Peak windows but for still discounted fares.

Off Peak fares from Ayr to Ilkley start from £145.10 one way, or £146.60 return

Anytime Tickets

Anytime tickets are fully flexible allowing travel at any time of the day. Brilliant if you don’t want the pressure of clock watching, returning when you want

Anytime fares from Ayr to Ilkley are available for £57.10 one way, or £71.40 return

With our FairSplit technology, you can save up to 90% on the cost of train travel.

Split ticketing means that instead of purchasing one rail ticket for your journey we automatically find and help you book two or more tickets instead, covering exactly the same journey. We call it our FairSplit.

Travelling in a group? We can save you even more!

Unlike other split ticketing sites, you can enter multiple railcards in a single search on traintickets.com. We will find you the best price using all possible combinations of your railcards in conjunction with our split ticketing technology & GroupSave.

When you do a search on traintickets.com we check all the cheapest prices automatically

Everything you need to know about Ayr Station

Welcome to Ayr Train Station

Nestled in the scenic landscape of South Ayrshire, Ayr Train Station is a bustling hub for travelers keen on exploring the charming town of Ayr and beyond. Whether you're a local commuting to work or a tourist embarking on a Scottish adventure, Ayr Station serves as an excellent starting point. With its range of facilities and connections, stepping onto the platform is just the beginning of your journey.

Ayr Station Facilities

Ayr Train Station is well-equipped to meet the needs of all travelers. The ticket office operates from the early hours of 5:30 AM until late at night at 11:15 PM on weekdays and Saturdays, while Sundays offer slightly adjusted times. For your convenience, there are ticket machines available for easy purchase and collection, including accessible machines. The station also offers step-free access to most platforms, making it accessible for those with mobility challenges. However, please note that there are no toilets or refreshment facilities available on-site.

You'll find help points and an induction loop throughout the station, emphasizing customer support and inclusivity. If you need assistance, knowledgeable staff are available from early morning to midnight most days of the week, eager to provide any information or support you may require.

Transport Links to and from Ayr Station

Ayr Station is more than a standalone travel hub. It connects seamlessly with various forms of local transport to ensure that reaching your final destination is as smooth as possible. Buses servicing the area can be accessed conveniently from the station’s car park. For an exact bus pickup location, you can use the what3words reference. Additionally, taxis are accessible through TrainTaxi, offering direct transportation straight from the station.

Popular Routes from Ayr

Venturing from Ayr opens up a world of travel possibilities across Scotland. Why not take a scenic train journey from Ayr to Glasgow Central? You can reach the vibrant city center with ease. If you're setting your sights elsewhere, trains from Ayr link you to places like Paisley Gilmour Street, Edinburgh Waverley, and even Prestwick International Airport. From calm seaside escapes to vibrant cityscapes, the train routes from Ayr Station are perfect for both routine commutes and leisurely explorations.

Here's a glimpse of some popular routes you might consider: head from Ayr to Irvine, Prestwick Town, or even venture as far as Edinburgh or Motherwell. These journeys promise picturesque landscapes and a comfortable ride.

Ending Your Journey

Ultimately, Ayr Train Station is a pivotal transit point that caters to both immediate travel needs and ensures connections onward across the region. With its accessible facilities and unyielding dedication to customer service, the station is harmoniously aligned with the serene yet vibrant town of Ayr. Ensure to check train times and ticket availability on various routes for a seamless travel experience.

Whether you're setting off for a day of work or the adventure of a lifetime, Ayr Train Station promises to be a robust start to your journey through Scotland's beautiful expanses. Safe travels!

Everything you need to know about Ilkley Station

Exploring Ilkley Train Station

Ilkley train station, nestled in the picturesque town of Ilkley, West Yorkshire, is a vital hub for those wishing to explore both local attractions and distant destinations. Known for its charming surroundings, Ilkley offers a delightful blend of nature and culture, making it an attractive starting point for any traveler. If you're looking to venture out, the station is your gateway to myriad adventures, whether you're commuting for work or seeking a weekend getaway.

Station Facilities and Accessibility

Ilkley station is equipped with several amenities to ensure a comfortable journey. The ticket office is open daily, with varying hours, providing both ticket machines and online ticket collection services. For those requiring accessibility support, the station boasts step-free access and accessible ticket machines, ensuring that everyone can navigate the station with ease. It’s a welcoming environment for all, with induction loops and wheelchair access, though you might want to plan ahead for facilities like toilets and waiting rooms, as these are somewhat limited.

For cyclists, there's secure bicycle storage with CCTV surveillance, and for drivers, a 24-hour car park managed by Northern, with both regular and accessible spaces. Although there’s no CCTV in the car park, the town of Ilkley and its community is generally considered safe and secure. The station also offers basic refreshment options, though it lacks an ATM and other shopping amenities, so plan accordingly before starting your journey.

Onward Travel Options

Beyond the station, Ilkley is well-connected with local transport options to facilitate your onward journey. A taxi stand is conveniently located outside the station, perfect for a quick departure. For bus travel, you can catch services from the adjacent bus interchange, offering routes throughout the region. While bicycle hire isn’t available directly at the station, exploring Ilkley and its surrounding areas by bike is still a popular choice, given the town's beautiful landscapes and cycling-friendly roads.

Popular Travel Routes from Ilkley

Ilkley’s railway links make it a fantastic base for exploring both bustling cities and tranquil towns. Engage in a short trip with trains from Ilkley to Leeds or plan a soothing visit to the serene village of Burley-In-Wharfedale. Interested in more urban adventures? You can reach Manchester Piccadilly directly for a taste of vibrant city life. For those heading further afield, consider journeys such as Ilkley to York for a day steeped in history or Ilkley to London Kings Cross to experience the capital.

Whatever your destination, booking your train tickets through reliable services ensures a seamless experience. Opt for railcards where applicable to make your journey more economical, whether you’re traveling as a group, senior, or student. Ready for a breath of fresh Yorkshire air, or eager for a bustling city adventure? Let Ilkley station be the start of your journey!

Ilkley station is not just a transit point; it's a leap into a journey that promises experiences rich with history, culture, and breathtaking vistas. Whether you're on a brief commute or an adventurous expedition, the ease and connectivity offered at Ilkley train station are sure to make your travel plans a breeze. Enjoy the freedom that train travel brings, and let your journey from Ilkley unfold with opportunities to explore the best of what the UK has to offer. Safe travels!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Ayr