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Trains from Gretna Green to
Cheltenham Spa

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Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa by train

A train trip from Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa takes about 11hrs 10 mins on average, covering roughly 218 miles (351 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 £49.00, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa Key Stats

Arrival Station

Cheltenham Spa

Departure Station

Gretna Green

Frequency

2trains
per day

Journey Time

from10hrs 42 mins

Changes

3-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

18:25 / 23:45

Distance

218miles
(351 km)

1 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£49.00

Travelling from Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa by Train

Hop on a Train from Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa 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 11hrs 10 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Cheltenham Spa), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 10hrs 42 mins. With roughly 2 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 218-mile (351 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of First TransPennine Express, ScotRail, CrossCountry, 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 Cheltenham Spa!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Gretna Green and Cheltenham Spa

Curious about your trip from Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa? 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 Gretna Green and Cheltenham Spa by train?

The travel time between Gretna Green and Cheltenham Spa by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 11hrs 10 mins & the fastest journey takes 10hrs 42 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Gretna Green and Cheltenham Spa by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa is 10hrs 42 mins.

How much does the train from Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa cost?

Train ticket prices from Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa 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 Gretna Green and Cheltenham Spa?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Gretna Green and Cheltenham Spa 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 18:25, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:45.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Gretna Green and Cheltenham Spa?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Gretna Green and Cheltenham Spa?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa by train?

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Gretna Green & Cheltenham Spa. However, there are 2 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa?

First TransPennine Express, ScotRail, CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast are the main train operating companies running services between Gretna Green and Cheltenham Spa.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Gretna Green and Cheltenham Spa?

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

When are Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa on Thursday 1st May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Thursday 1st May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
10:26 Gretna Green15:14 Cheltenham Spa3 changesCarlisle
Preston (Lancs)
Birmingham New Street
4 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
11:29 Gretna Green16:14 Cheltenham Spa2 changesCarlisle
Birmingham New Street
4 hrs 45 mins Get Tickets
12:23 Gretna Green17:18 Cheltenham Spa2 changesCarlisle
Birmingham New Street
4 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
13:24 Gretna Green18:18 Cheltenham Spa2 changesCarlisle
Birmingham New Street
4 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
14:22 Gretna Green19:14 Cheltenham Spa3 changesCarlisle
Preston (Lancs)
Birmingham New Street
4 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
15:27 Gretna Green20:14 Cheltenham Spa2 changesCarlisle
Birmingham New Street
4 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
16:26 Gretna Green21:14 Cheltenham Spa2 changesCarlisle
Birmingham New Street
4 hrs 48 mins Get Tickets
17:31 Gretna Green22:20 Cheltenham Spa2 changesCarlisle
Birmingham New Street
4 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
19:27 Gretna Green06:04 Cheltenham Spa2 changesCarlisle
Birmingham New Street
10 hrs 37 mins Get Tickets
23:32 Gretna Green10:14 Cheltenham Spa3 changesCarlisle
Preston (Lancs)
Birmingham New Street
10 hrs 42 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa 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 Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa 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 Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa start from £123.40 one way, or £176.30 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 Gretna Green to Cheltenham Spa are available for £128.30 one way, or £256.60 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 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.

Everything you need to know about Cheltenham Spa Station

Exploring Cheltenham Spa Train Station: A Gateway to Adventure

Nestled in the heart of Gloucestershire, Cheltenham Spa train station stands as a bustling hub, seamlessly connecting travelers to various destinations across the UK. Whether you're embarking on a journey to the vibrant streets of London Paddington or the historic charm of Bath Spa, Cheltenham Spa station offers an array of facilities to ensure a convenient and pleasant travel experience.

A Hub of Facilities and Amenities

Cheltenham Spa is equipped with a robust ticketing service, featuring both manned ticket offices and machines for purchasing and collecting tickets with ease. The ticket office is open from 06:15 to 20:15 on weekdays, slightly altering times over the weekend. Furthermore, smartcards can be issued at this station, though they lack on-site validators.

Accessibility is made a priority at this station, with step-free access to platforms via ramps, and there are provisions for customers needing extra assistance with a dedicated help point. For those carrying heavy luggage, it's important to note that there isn’t a luggage storage facility available. However, customer service staff are on hand from 05:00 to 01:00 daily to assist whenever needed.

Parking is handled by APCOA Parking, offering 286 spaces, 17 of which are wheelchair-accessible. Though the car park is monitored, it doesn't feature CCTV. The rates are reasonable and include a variety of payment plans to suit different needs. Meanwhile, cyclists can benefit from 134 cycle storage spaces and hire services offered by Compass Holidays.

Seamless Connectivity Beyond the Platform

Cheltenham Spa station serves as a critical intersection for various modes of transport besides trains, easing the transition from rail to other transport forms. In case of rail service disruptions, a replacement service is available just in front of the station. Taxis are conveniently stationed at the entrance, though an accessible taxi requires a staff member's help to arrange.

For avid cyclists, bike hire is operational on the platform, offering excellent routes and experiences through Compass Holidays. While those keen on exploring surroundings can access local bus services, with comprehensive onwards travel information available to download in a printable format.

Where to Next? Popular Train Journeys from Cheltenham Spa

Cheltenham Spa provides excellent connectivity for those seeking inspiration for their next adventure. From here, popular train routes include travels to vibrant cities such as London Paddington, or head north to bustling Birmingham New Street. Holidaymakers can venture towards the idyllic Bath Spa, or those with a bit of wanderlust can enjoy the diverse culture of Cardiff Central. Even destinations like Bristol Temple Meads and Gloucester are easily reached from this well-connected station.

Your Cheltenham Spa Experience Awaits

With its convenient location and extensive facilities, Cheltenham Spa train station is more than just a departure point—it's a starting line for countless journeys, each filled with potential and promise. Whether you’re a seasoned commuter or a first-time visitor, this station ensures a smooth start to your travel experience. So why wait? Plan your visit, book your tickets, and step into your next adventure from Cheltenham Spa station, where every journey begins with comfort and convenience.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Gretna Green