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Trains from Bournemouth to
Helmsdale

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Bournemouth to Helmsdale by train

A train trip from Bournemouth to Helmsdale takes about 22hrs 11 mins on average, covering roughly 516 miles (830 kilometres). With around 2 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 £66.50, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Bournemouth to Helmsdale Key Stats

Arrival Station

Helmsdale

Departure Station

Bournemouth

Frequency

2trains
per day

Journey Time

from21hrs 14 mins

Changes

4-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

19:22 / 00:24

Distance

516miles
(830 km)

1 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£66.50

Travelling from Bournemouth to Helmsdale by Train

Hop on a Train from Bournemouth to Helmsdale – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Bournemouth to Helmsdale 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 22hrs 11 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Helmsdale), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 21hrs 14 mins. With roughly 2 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 516-mile (830 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of South Western Railway, Lumo, Caledonian Sleeper, ScotRail, 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 £66.50 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 Helmsdale!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Bournemouth and Helmsdale

Curious about your trip from Bournemouth to Helmsdale? 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 Bournemouth and Helmsdale by train?

The travel time between Bournemouth and Helmsdale by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 22hrs 11 mins & the fastest journey takes 21hrs 14 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Bournemouth and Helmsdale by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Bournemouth to Helmsdale is 21hrs 14 mins.

How much does the train from Bournemouth to Helmsdale cost?

Train ticket prices from Bournemouth to Helmsdale can start from as little as £66.50 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 Bournemouth and Helmsdale?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Bournemouth and Helmsdale vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 2 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 19:22, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:24.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Bournemouth and Helmsdale?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Bournemouth and Helmsdale?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Bournemouth to Helmsdale by train?

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Bournemouth & Helmsdale. However, there are 2 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Bournemouth to Helmsdale?

South Western Railway, Lumo, Caledonian Sleeper and ScotRail are the main train operating companies running services between Bournemouth and Helmsdale.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Bournemouth and Helmsdale?

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

When are Bournemouth to Helmsdale Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Bournemouth to Helmsdale on Tuesday 29th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Tuesday 29th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
05:55 Bournemouth21:08 Helmsdale4 changesLondon Waterloo
London Kings Cross
Edinburgh
Inverness
15 hrs 13 mins Get Tickets
18:45 Bournemouth13:12 Helmsdale3 changesStafford
Crewe
Inverness
18 hrs 27 mins Get Tickets
21:12 Bournemouth21:08 Helmsdale4 changesLondon Waterloo
London Kings Cross
Edinburgh
Inverness
23 hrs 56 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Bournemouth to Helmsdale 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 Bournemouth to Helmsdale start from as little as £66.50

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 Bournemouth to Helmsdale start from £144.90 one way, or £313.80 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 Bournemouth to Helmsdale are available for £284.60 one way, or £533.40 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 Bournemouth Station

Welcome to Bournemouth Train Station

Bournemouth Train Station is a bustling hub situated in the heart of Dorset, known for its proximity to the vibrant seaside town it serves. As a gateway to both the beautiful coasts of the South and larger cities, it's more than just a transit point—it's a portal to rich experiences and explorative adventures. Whether you're a local commuter or a traveller on a scenic journey through the English countryside, Bournemouth Station has something to offer each unique passenger.

Facilities and Services

The station ensures a seamless experience with a comprehensive array of facilities. Whether buying a ticket or picking up one pre-purchased online, passengers can utilize the ticket machines which are accessible for all, including those with disabilities. The station also offers smartcards for a modern touch to your travel needs. For any assistance, staff help is widely available through help points, information screens, and the dedicated Customer Service Centre, ensuring that a helpful hand is never far away. Additionally, there's step-free access throughout the station, including long ramps for ease of movement.

Comfort and Convenience

Bournemouth Train Station might lack a traditional waiting room, but there's ample seating available for travelers awaiting departure. While it does not offer lounge services, refreshments can be found on Platforms 2 and 3, including a Starbucks. Best not to rely on finding ATMs or shops here, however. For those needing to stay connected, complimentary public Wi-Fi is available, with helpful links to hotspots around the station.

Connectivity to the Wider World

Travelers will benefit from the station's excellent transport connectivity. For those moving onward by car, there are 362 parking spaces available and specially marked bays for Blue Badge holders. If you arrive by bike, there are 118 spaces with sheltered cycle storage under CCTV. For public transportation users, buses and taxis provide seamless travel to further destinations. The airport is easily accessible via Morebus service 737, while the station is a pivotal access point for rail replacement services reaching Southampton and Poole.

Embark on Your Journey

The station acts as a launchpad to many exciting destinations. Whether you're heading north to the bustling capital with trains from Bournemouth to London Waterloo, or exploring closer locales like traveling to Poole or Southampton Central, the options are as varied as the reasons for travel. For those seeking a coastal adventure, a train to Christchurch or venturing further to Weymouth might be just the ticket.

Your Journey's End

Whether you're merely passing through or starting an epic journey, Bournemouth Train Station is designed to cater to your travel needs. Balancing modern convenience with essential accessibility, it stands as a beacon of efficient travel in the heart of the South coast. So why wait? Begin your railway adventure and let Bournemouth Station guide you to new horizons, ensuring that every journey is a memorable one.

The station, vividly capturing the essence of the vibrant town it serves, is a delightful meeting point for travelers, commuters, and explorers alike. Dive into your journey from Bournemouth and discover where the rail will take you next.

Everything you need to know about Helmsdale Station

Discovering Helmsdale Train Station

Helmsdale train station sits quietly in the scenic village of Helmsdale, a place marked on the map for its picturesque charm in the Scottish Highlands. Whether you're a frequent traveler or a onetime visitor, Helmsdale station offers a unique travel experience. This rural station might not boast a bustling environment, but its tranquil setting provides a quiet respite from the hustle of urban life. So, if you’re looking to escape the city, view some of nature’s scenic views, or travel further into Scotland, Helmsdale could be your gateway.

Station Facilities and Services

Helmsdale station, although quaint and minimally equipped, covers essential facilities for basic travel needs. Travellers should be prepared for a self-service experience, as there are no ticket offices or machines available in the station. Tickets should be purchased online ahead of your journey. While this might seem limiting, take solace in the availability of an induction loop for those who need auditory assistance and there are help points to guide any inquiries.

Step-free access is available across parts of the station, ensuring some degree of accessibility, although be mindful when transitioning between the train and the platform, particularly at platform 1. With no designated accessible taxis or set down points, planning ahead is key if mobility support is needed. Unfortunately, the station does not feature many common conveniences such as toilets, refreshments, or Wi-Fi, making preparation before arrival essential.

Travelling Onward from Helmsdale

While Helmsdale may feel isolated at first glance, onward travel options keep you connected. You can access bus services directly from the station's car park. For accurate pick-up points, services like What3Words provide exact locations for convenience. For more travel details, you can visit Traveline Scotland or contact them at 0871 200 22 33 for real-time bus schedules. Furthermore, taxi services can be sourced through the TrainTaxi website ensuring you're not stranded after reaching your destination.

For those eager to reconnect with urban life or explore further afield, popular train routes from Helmsdale can take you to key destinations. Whether you're headed to the vibrant city of Inverness, the historic appeal of Thurso, or the bustling streets of Edinburgh, Helmsdale can serve as a launching pad. More scenic routes include travel to Lairg, Wick, or even as far as Glasgow Central, providing a variety of destinations to cater to diverse travel interests.

Popular Train Routes from Helmsdale

If you're curious about where a journey from Helmsdale might take you, there’s a plethora of destinations to consider. For a taste of Scottish highland culture, consider traveling to Inverness or perhaps a spectacular coastal view trip to Brora. If you're craving a bit of adventure, a ride to Dunrobin Castle or discovering history in Edinburgh may satisfy your wanderlust. Longer connections available include the journey to Glasgow Central and as far as Aberdeen, which is perfect for those extended travel plans.

Conclusion

Though modest in offerings, Helmsdale train station provides the essentials for those travelling within the Scottish Highlands and beyond. Its simplicity invites travellers to experience the beauty of uncomplicated travel and the charm of rural Scotland, making it a worthwhile stop for any adventurer venturing into the area. Plan your journey with ease and let Helmsdale serve as your serene connection point into the heart of Scotland.

To ensure a smooth experience, remember to plan your travel ahead and equip yourself comfortably for the journey. Embrace the opportunities offered by Helmsdale and embark on a meaningful railway adventure that could take you places you never knew you wanted to visit!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Bournemouth