This websites requires JavaScript to work. It looks like your browser doesn't support JavaScript, or has it turned off. Please try again with JavaScript support.

70% of our customers find a cheaper split ticket, saving £25 on average

Trains from Bedford St Johns to
Hackney Downs

Search for Split Tickets to get the Cheapest Fares (save up to 90%)

No card or booking fees

Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs by train

A train trip from Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs takes about 2hrs 11 mins on average, covering roughly 43 miles (70 kilometres). With around 28 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 £24.30, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs Key Stats

Arrival Station

Hackney Downs

Departure Station

Bedford St Johns

Frequency

28trains
per day

Journey Time

from1hrs 40 mins

Changes

3-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:55 / 23:19

Distance

43miles
(70 km)

8 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£24.30

Travelling from Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs by Train

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

Planning to travel from Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs 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 2hrs 11 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Hackney Downs), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 1hrs 40 mins. With roughly 28 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 43-mile (70 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of London Overground, Elizabeth Line, Thameslink, West Midlands Trains, East Midlands Railway, 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 £24.30 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 Hackney Downs!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Bedford St Johns and Hackney Downs

Curious about your trip from Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs? 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 Hackney Downs by train?

The travel time between Bedford St Johns and Hackney Downs by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 11 mins & the fastest journey takes 1hrs 40 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Bedford St Johns and Hackney Downs by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs is 1hrs 40 mins.

How much does the train from Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs cost?

Train ticket prices from Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs can start from as little as £24.30 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 Hackney Downs?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Bedford St Johns and Hackney Downs vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 28 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:55, 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 Hackney Downs?

First class tickets on trains between Bedford St Johns and Hackney Downs 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 Hackney Downs?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs 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 Hackney Downs. On traintickets.com, we do all the work for you to find the cheapest way possible to get to Hackney Downs, 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 Hackney Downs?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Bedford St Johns & Hackney Downs. However, there are 28 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs?

London Overground, Elizabeth Line, Thameslink, West Midlands Trains and East Midlands Railway are the main train operating companies running services between Bedford St Johns and Hackney Downs.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Bedford St Johns and Hackney Downs?

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

When are Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs on Thursday 12th June 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Thursday 12th June
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
05:55 Bedford St Johns07:40 Hackney Downs4 changesBedford
London St Pancras International
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
1 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
06:13 Bedford St Johns08:33 Hackney Downs3 changesBletchley
London Euston
Seven Sisters
2 hrs 20 mins Get Tickets
06:53 Bedford St Johns08:41 Hackney Downs3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
1 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
07:56 Bedford St Johns09:38 Hackney Downs4 changesBedford
London St Pancras International
Highbury & Islington
1 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
08:38 Bedford St Johns10:39 Hackney Downs3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
09:27 Bedford St Johns11:40 Hackney Downs3 changesBletchley
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 13 mins Get Tickets
10:30 Bedford St Johns12:24 Hackney Downs3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
1 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
10:50 Bedford St Johns13:09 Hackney Downs3 changesBletchley
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
11:30 Bedford St Johns13:24 Hackney Downs3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
1 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
11:50 Bedford St Johns14:09 Hackney Downs3 changesBletchley
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
12:30 Bedford St Johns14:24 Hackney Downs3 changesBedford
Farringdon
London Liverpool Street
1 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
12:50 Bedford St Johns15:09 Hackney Downs3 changesBletchley
London Euston
London Liverpool Street
2 hrs 19 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Bedford St Johns to Hackney Downs 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.

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 Hackney Downs start from £24.30 one way, or £24.40 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 Hackney Downs are available for £33.80 one way, or £55.20 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 Hackney Downs Station

Discovering Hackney Downs Train Station

Hackney Downs train station, nestled in the bustling heart of East London, offers a gateway to both the city’s vibrant core and its leafy suburban retreats. This station bridges the hustle and bustle of urban life with the tranquillity found in surrounding areas. Known for its eclectic blend of cultural diversity, Hackney hosts a mix of traditional homes and modern developments, making the station a pivotal point for daily commuters and adventurers alike.

Station Facilities and Amenities

At Hackney Downs, convenience is a key feature. The station is equipped with automated ticket machines, making ticket purchases and collections a breeze. Although the ticket office operates only in the mornings from Monday to Friday, passengers can still collect pre-purchased tickets from the machines available on site. The station ensures accessibility by providing accessible ticket machines and an induction loop for the hearing impaired, ensuring every traveler receives necessary assistance.

Passenger Support and Accessibility

The station provides a range of customer support services with information and help available via dedicated help points. Staff are consistently on hand to assist passengers, particularly during weekdays and Saturdays from 06:20 to 20:00, and on Sundays with limited hours. For passengers with mobility concerns, the station offers step-free access to the southbound Platform 1 via Hackney Walkway, although users should verify lift availability.

Station Dining and Retail

Travelers can enjoy small comforts such as vending machines for cold drinks and snacks along with a few shops present on Platform 1. Although there are no ATM or cash services provided at the station, you can find various conveniences close by in the adjoining areas of Hackney.

Transport Connectivity

Hackney Downs station serves as a connecting hub with various transport links. For those affected by rail service disruptions, replacement bus services are readily available, departing from Amhurst Road to several destinations including Enfield Town and Liverpool Street. Regular London buses also operate from outside the station, making seamless connections to the city’s extensive public transportation network.

Popular Train Routes

Many choose Hackney Downs for its direct connections to central locations like London Liverpool Street. The station also serves routes to well-known spots such as Seven Sisters, Chingford, and Walthamstow Central, all providing a plethora of exploration opportunities. Tickets can be easily booked online, offering a swift passage to some of London's most visited locales like Bond Street and Tottenham Court Road, each offering its unique slice of London life.

Hackney Downs station plays a vital role in connecting commuters and travelers to the broader London network. Its combination of accessibility features, convenient transport links, and proximity to popular areas makes it a favored choice for many. Whether you're a local or a visitor, Hackney Downs offers you the charm of the Hackney area, paired with the efficiency and connectivity of London's comprehensive transport system.

With continuously improving services and connectivity, Hackney Downs fosters a welcoming and efficient environment for all who pass through. Ready your tickets and embrace the journey as Hackney Downs stands as your portal to experiencing the richness of London.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Bedford St Johns