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Trains from Bedford St Johns to
Gretna Green

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Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green by train

A train trip from Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green takes about 6hrs 26 mins on average, covering roughly 225 miles (362 kilometres). With around 12 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 £49.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green Key Stats

Arrival Station

Gretna Green

Departure Station

Bedford St Johns

Frequency

12trains
per day

Journey Time

from5hrs 10 mins

Changes

3-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:13 / 23:19

Distance

225miles
(362 km)

4 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£49.00

Travelling from Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green by Train

Hop on a Train from Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green 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 26 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Gretna Green), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 5hrs 10 mins. With roughly 12 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 225-mile (362 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of ScotRail, West Midlands Trains, Caledonian Sleeper, East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, 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 £49.00 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 Gretna Green!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green

Curious about your trip from Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green? 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 Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green by train?

The travel time between Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 6hrs 26 mins & the fastest journey takes 5hrs 10 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green is 5hrs 10 mins.

How much does the train from Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green cost?

Train ticket prices from Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green can start from as little as £49.00 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 Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 12 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:13, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:19.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green?

First class tickets on trains between Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green?

Amenities on trains between Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green by train?

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Gretna Green, 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 Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Bedford St Johns & Gretna Green. However, there are 12 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green?

ScotRail, West Midlands Trains, Caledonian Sleeper, East Midlands Railway and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green?

Yes, you can bring luggage on board trains between Bedford St Johns and Gretna Green, but there may be limits on the number of bags or the size and weight of your luggage.

When are Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green on Monday 5th May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Monday 5th May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
20:50 Bedford St Johns08:21 Gretna Green4 changesBletchley
Milton Keynes Central
Crewe
Carlisle
11 hrs 31 mins Get Tickets
22:41 Bedford St Johns10:08 Gretna Green3 changesBletchley
London Euston
Carlisle
11 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green 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 Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green start from as little as £49.00

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 Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green start from £99.30 one way, or £141.90 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 Bedford St Johns to Gretna Green are available for £147.70 one way, or £295.40 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 Bedford St Johns Station

Exploring Bedford St Johns Train Station

Nestled in the charming town of Bedford, Bedford St Johns Train Station offers a glimpse into the quieter side of rail travel in the UK. While it may not boast the flurry of activity seen in larger stations, its simplicity serves the local community effectively. If you are planning on making this station a part of your journey, here's what you need to know to make your trip as smooth as possible.

Station Facilities

Travelers should note that Bedford St Johns operates as an unstaffed station, which means that there is no ticket office or ticket machines available on-site. However, smartcard holders don't need to worry about finding a validator here, as there are none. If you require assistance when planning your journey, there are help points available on the platforms to offer information and guidance.

Accessibility is a key focus, with step-free access available, although this may involve longer or steeper routes to platforms. Uniquely regarded as a category B1 station, step-free access is incorporated into all platforms, ensuring everyone can use the station with confidence. That said, there are no staff members to assist, so plan accordingly.

Transport Links

For those concerned about onward travel from Bedford St Johns, the station does provide a platform to access other modes of transportation. There are rail replacement services that operate from the Melbourne Street car park just a short distance from the station, ideal if you find your train connections disrupted. Additionally, bus services complement local travel needs—ensuring continued travel flexibility.

Popular Routes and Travel Tips

When looking to explore beyond Bedford St Johns, there are several popular routes that might catch your interest. The station provides services to nearby towns and larger hubs such as Bedford, Luton, and London St Pancras International. Whether for a short commute or a leisurely outing, you have options to traverse much of Bedfordshire and beyond. If you're heading to the airport, you can catch trains to Luton Airport Parkway, making your travel that much easier.

For those seeking a journey that encompasses both tranquility and utility, a trip from Bedford St Johns to destinations like Flitwick, Stewartby, or the iconic London Kings Cross might just be what you need. Remember, with services to places like St Albans City or Harpenden, your travel horizons from this humble station are wider than you might expect.

Final Thoughts

Though modest, Bedford St Johns Train Station plays a vital role in local commuting and offers an essential connectivity point with key locations both near and far. Without the distractions of bustling station amenities, you can focus on the scenic and essential aspects of your journey. As you prepare for travel, booking your tickets online in advance will ensure a seamless experience as you navigate the rail networks from Bedford St Johns.

With its emphasis on accessible travel and local integration, Bedford St Johns stands as a testament to functionality and simplicity within the UK's extensive rail network. Whether you're hopping on a train for the daily grind or embarking on a new adventure, the station offers a relaxed gateway and connection to your next destination.

Everything you need to know about Gretna Green Station

Discover Gretna Green Train Station

Nestled in the village renowned for its romantic elopements, Gretna Green train station is a quaint and storied stop on the UK rail network. While the village itself boasts a rich history that dates back centuries—a beacon for lovers crossing the border—modern-day travelers will find an unassuming yet charming railway station that serves as a gateway to both local adventures and destinations further afield.

Station Facilities and Amenities

Gretna Green station is all about simplicity and maintaining a connection to its charming surroundings without the hustle of large urban stations. While this compact station does not have onsite ticket purchasing facilities or machines, it makes up for it with ease of use. There is no dedicated ticket office, but travelers can pre-purchase tickets online, ensuring a smooth travel experience. The presence of smartcard validators adds a touch of modern convenience for regular rail users. Additionally, despite being small, the station is partially accessible with step-free access available to both platforms, making it welcoming for passengers with reduced mobility.

Other amenities focus on the essentials. There are no refreshment facilities, shops, or ATMs, so plan accordingly before you arrive. For those needing transportation, the station provides clear options for taxis via Train Taxi services. Bus travel is supported through local services detailed at TravelLine Scotland’s website, offering flexibility for those exploring the surrounding areas.

Onward Travel Opportunities

Whether you're staying local or embarking on a longer journey, Gretna Green station serves as a springboard for all destinations. With the station's proximity to the Scottish border, exciting cities like Carlisle and Dumfries are a short ride away—a brief train journey from Gretna Green to Carlisle opens up a world of shops, museums, and the historic Carlisle Castle. Further afield, options are aplenty with direct trains reaching larger cities such as Glasgow and London. For an adventurous day trip, why not head from Gretna Green to Annan or enjoy the bustling streets of Glasgow Central?

For those thinking about proceeding to Edinburgh, train services are readily available, and you can find more details by visiting the dedicated page for Gretna Green to Edinburgh Waverley train times. When the journey calls for an English escape, services from Gretna Green can take you to iconic locations like Liverpool or Newcastle, making planning seamless with online booking options to help smooth out your travel itinerary.

The Charm of Gretna Green Awaits

While it may not be London's bustling King's Cross, Gretna Green station offers its own unique charm with historical significance and a peaceful setting. It stands as a fitting gateway for travelers keen to explore both historical intrigue and the diverse landscapes of England and Scotland. Its straightforward, no-frills approach is part of what makes traveling from here a pleasant experience. For those wishing to visit this historical nook, considering all travel options from Gretna Green to popular destinations like Manchester and Birmingham is as easy as a few clicks on an online ticket service.

In conclusion, Gretna Green station might be modest in structure, but it provides travelers with ample opportunities to delve into its romantic folklore while easily reaching some of the UK’s most vibrant cities. Whether you're lingering in the area or seeking broader horizons, there's a route from Gretna Green ready to whisk you away.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Bedford St Johns