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Trains from Harpenden to
Retford

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Harpenden to Retford by train

A train trip from Harpenden to Retford takes about 2hrs 59 mins on average, covering roughly 106 miles (171 kilometres). With around 19 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 £19.90, making it a budget-friendly option for those who plan ahead.

Harpenden to Retford Key Stats

Arrival Station

Retford

Departure Station

Harpenden

Frequency

19trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 30 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

04:47 / 23:57

Distance

106miles
(171 km)

3 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£19.90

Travelling from Harpenden to Retford by Train

Hop on a Train from Harpenden to Retford – It’s Faster Than You Think!

Planning to travel from Harpenden to Retford 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 59 mins. But if you’re in a hurry (or just really eager to get to Retford), the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs 30 mins. With roughly 19 trains running every day, you're spoiled for choice. This scenic 106-mile (171 km) journey usually requires just one change. You’ll be in the good hands of First Hull Trains, East Midlands Railway, Thameslink, Northern Rail, London North Eastern 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 £19.90 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 Retford!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Harpenden and Retford

Curious about your trip from Harpenden to Retford? 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 Harpenden and Retford by train?

The travel time between Harpenden and Retford by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 2hrs 59 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 30 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between Harpenden and Retford by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Harpenden to Retford is 2hrs 30 mins.

How much does the train from Harpenden to Retford cost?

Train ticket prices from Harpenden to Retford can start from as little as £19.90 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 Harpenden and Retford?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Harpenden and Retford vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 19 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 04:47, and the last train of the day leaves at 23:57.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between Harpenden and Retford?

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

What amenities are available on trains between Harpenden and Retford?

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

What is the cheapest way to travel from Harpenden to Retford by train?

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Harpenden & Retford. However, there are 19 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Harpenden to Retford?

First Hull Trains, East Midlands Railway, Thameslink, Northern Rail and London North Eastern Railway are the main train operating companies running services between Harpenden and Retford.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Harpenden and Retford?

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

When are Harpenden to Retford Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Harpenden to Retford on Monday 28th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Monday 28th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
17:26 Harpenden20:05 Retford2 changesLondon Kings Cross
2 hrs 39 mins Get Tickets
17:37 Harpenden20:13 Retford2 changesLondon Kings Cross
2 hrs 36 mins Get Tickets
19:22 Harpenden21:52 Retford2 changesLondon Kings Cross
2 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
20:22 Harpenden23:14 Retford2 changesLondon Kings Cross
2 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
21:38 Harpenden06:24 Retford2 changesLondon St Pancras International
Sheffield
8 hrs 46 mins Get Tickets
23:52 Harpenden07:32 Retford3 changesLuton Airport Parkway
London Kings Cross
7 hrs 40 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Harpenden to Retford 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 Harpenden to Retford start from as little as £19.90

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 Harpenden to Retford start from £55.50 one way, or £92.10 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 Harpenden to Retford are available for £103.00 one way, or £165.00 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 Harpenden Station

Welcome to Harpenden Train Station

Situated in the heart of Hertfordshire, Harpenden Train Station is your gateway to a myriad of travel opportunities across the UK. Whether you’re planning a city day out, a leisurely weekend escape, or an important business trip, Harpenden provides seamless connections and diverse commuting options. The station's facilities are geared towards providing ease and accessibility for all travelers, making it a convenient starting point for your journey.

Facilities and Amenities at Harpenden Station

Harpenden Train Station offers a variety of facilities designed to make your travel experience as smooth as possible. The ticket office operates throughout the week, with extended hours to accommodate early birds and those traveling late. Conveniently, there are ticket machines available for quick purchases and collections, which support the use of Disabled Persons Railcard discounts.

For those needing accessibility support, Harpenden is fully equipped with step-free access throughout the station and offers assistance options for easy boarding. If you're cycling to the station, you'll find ample bicycle storage with over 500 spaces. Although the station does not have waiting rooms, seating is available, and a coffee shop on-site ensures those pre-travel caffeine needs are met.

In terms of security, the station houses CCTV cameras to maintain a safe environment. Although there are no customer help points, station staff are available to provide assistance when necessary. It’s recommended to communicate your needs upon arrival or pre-book assistance for a more tailored experience.

Onward Travel Options

Getting to your final destination from Harpenden is easy with efficient transport links. Taxis are conveniently located right outside the station, providing a seamless transition between transport modes. Moreover, if the rail service is ever disrupted, rail replacement buses are available to ensure your journey continues without too much delay. Local bus service information is displayed at the station for easy reference and planning.

Popular Routes from Harpenden

Harpenden is exceptionally positioned for travel to numerous popular destinations. Catch a train to London St Pancras International, only a short journey, or explore local stops like St Albans City and Luton. For those needing to access the city’s business hubs, regular services to London Blackfriars and City Thameslink are available. Visiting the vibrant cultural epicenters? Swift journeys to Farringdon or London Bridge are at your fingertips. Indeed, whether it’s the bustling scenes of Tottenham Court Road or the tranquil surroundings of Bedford, Harpenden serves as the perfect starting point.

Furthermore, Harpenden simplifies international travel preparations with routes to Luton Airport Parkway and transports you to Elstree and Borehamwood should your plans include a visit to filming studios or serene pastures.

Planning Your Journey

As you prepare for your upcoming adventures via Harpenden Train Station, remember to check the latest schedules and travel advisories. Secure your tickets in advance and make the most of discounts available with the right railcards. With its plethora of convenient connections and supportive amenities, Harpenden invites you to explore beyond borders effortlessly.

So next time you're planning your travel itinerary, consider Harpenden Train Station as your launchpad, where each journey promises to be as hassle-free as possible.

Everything you need to know about Retford Station

Welcome to Retford Train Station!

Located in Nottinghamshire, England, Retford Train Station is a key hub for local and long-distance travel. Whether you're a daily commuter, a leisure traveler, or someone embarking on an adventure, Retford offers a range of facilities and travel options to ensure your journey goes smoothly. This guide will help you navigate station amenities and explore onward connections to popular destinations.

Station Amenities and Facilities

Retford Station boasts an array of facilities designed to accommodate travelers' needs. The ticket office operates from early morning until mid-afternoon during weekdays and Saturdays, and a bit later on Sundays. For convenience, ticket machines are available for purchasing or collecting tickets purchased online, including accessible machines and smartcard validators.

Ensuring the comfort of all passengers, Retford Train Station provides step-free access across all platforms and accessible facilities such as toilets and waiting rooms. With secure station accreditation, passengers can travel with confidence knowing that CCTV is present, and staff are available to assist from early morning until late at night.

Travel Links and Accessibility

Getting to and from Retford is hassle-free. The station's taxi rank is directly opposite the entrance with several local taxi operators available for hire—some even offering wheelchair-friendly vehicles. For those requiring rail replacement services, coaches are accessible right in front of the station.

While there are no cycle hire facilities, Retford provides sheltered bicycle storage with CCTV, catering to cyclists. Though convenient parking options are not in short supply, charges do apply, and accessible spaces are limited.

Onward Travel Adventures

Once you’ve arrived in Retford, you might be looking to venture further afield. The station is well-connected to several bustling cities and charming towns. Jump on a train from Retford to London Kings Cross for an exciting city escape, or perhaps enjoy a cultural trip to York.

For those looking east, consider a journey from Retford to Lincoln to admire its iconic cathedral. If the north beckons, Sheffield offers a vibrant urban experience. Adventurers seeking serene natural landscapes may be drawn to riding the rails from Retford to Newcastle or Edinburgh, experiencing breathtaking sceneries along the way.

With its well-equipped facilities and strategic connections, Retford Train Station is not just a transit point; it's the start of many potential adventures. Whether it's a brief visit or an extensive journey, Retford is ready to cater to every traveler's needs.

Start Your Journey Today!

Ready to embark on your next venture from Retford? Why not plan your trip to London Kings Cross, or explore nearby attractions with a train journey to Lincoln. The exciting destinations that await you highlight that at Retford, every departure is the beginning of a new journey. So, get those tickets sorted, pack your bags, and let Retford station be your gateway to discovering the UK!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Harpenden