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Trains from London Waterloo East to
Darlington

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London Waterloo East to Darlington by train

Planning a train journey from London Waterloo East to Darlington? The trip usually takes about 4hrs 24 mins, covering approximately 217 miles (349 kilometres). With roughly 34 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options to suit your schedule. Booking your tickets ahead of time can snag you fares as low as £85.80, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

London Waterloo East to Darlington Key Stats

Arrival Station

Darlington

Departure Station

London Waterloo East

Frequency

34trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 43 mins

Changes

2-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

00:30 / 00:03

Distance

217miles
(349 km)

4 Routes

4 Train Operators

Prices

from£85.80

Travelling from London Waterloo East to Darlington by Train

Jump on a Train from London Waterloo East to Darlington – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

Considering a train trip from London Waterloo East to Darlington? You’re in the right place, and the journey is faster than you might think!

Typically, the trip takes about 4hrs 24 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach London Waterloo East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 3hrs 43 mins. With approximately 34 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 217-mile (349 km) route usually requires just one change, with Thameslink, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Southeastern providing comfortable seating and ample luggage space – because being cramped isn't anyone's idea of fun!

The best news? By booking early, you can find tickets starting at just £85.80, a significant saving compared to last-minute purchases. To save even more, consider traveling during Off-Peak hours or using a Railcard to keep your expenses down.

Ready to grab those low-cost tickets? Use our Journey Planner to find the latest discounts and keep your budget happy. Explore more travel tips below or check our timetable for current train schedules. All aboard to Darlington!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between London Waterloo East and Darlington

Curious about your trip from London Waterloo East to Darlington? 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 London Waterloo East and Darlington by train?

The travel time between London Waterloo East and Darlington by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 4hrs 24 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 43 mins.

What's the fastest journey time between London Waterloo East and Darlington by train?

The fastest journey time by train from London Waterloo East to Darlington is 3hrs 43 mins.

How much does the train from London Waterloo East to Darlington cost?

Train ticket prices from London Waterloo East to Darlington can start from as little as £85.80 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 London Waterloo East and Darlington?

The departure and arrival times for trains between London Waterloo East and Darlington vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 34 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 00:30, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:03.

What is the difference between first class and standard class on trains between London Waterloo East and Darlington?

First class tickets on trains between London Waterloo East and Darlington typically offer more space, complimentary food and drink, and other amenities compared to standard class.

What amenities are available on trains between London Waterloo East and Darlington?

Amenities on trains between London Waterloo East and Darlington can include free Wi-Fi, power outlets, onboard catering, and comfortable seating.

What is the cheapest way to travel from London Waterloo East to Darlington by train?

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between London Waterloo East & Darlington. However, there are 34 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from London Waterloo East to Darlington?

Thameslink, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry and Southeastern are the main train operating companies running services between London Waterloo East and Darlington.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between London Waterloo East and Darlington?

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

When are London Waterloo East to Darlington Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from London Waterloo East to Darlington 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
15:12 London Waterloo East19:06 Darlington2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
3 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
15:21 London Waterloo East19:24 Darlington4 changesLondon Charing Cross
Lewisham
London Bridge
London Kings Cross
4 hrs 3 mins Get Tickets
16:12 London Waterloo East19:59 Darlington2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
3 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
16:21 London Waterloo East20:20 Darlington4 changesLondon Charing Cross
Lewisham
London Bridge
London Kings Cross
3 hrs 59 mins Get Tickets
17:02 London Waterloo East20:51 Darlington3 changesLondon Bridge
Stevenage
Peterborough
3 hrs 49 mins Get Tickets
17:12 London Waterloo East21:04 Darlington2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
3 hrs 52 mins Get Tickets
17:25 London Waterloo East21:26 Darlington4 changesLondon Charing Cross
Lewisham
London Bridge
London Kings Cross
4 hrs 1 min Get Tickets
17:46 London Waterloo East21:43 Darlington3 changesLondon Bridge
Stevenage
Doncaster
3 hrs 57 mins Get Tickets
18:16 London Waterloo East22:06 Darlington2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
3 hrs 50 mins Get Tickets
18:21 London Waterloo East22:19 Darlington4 changesLondon Charing Cross
Lewisham
London Bridge
London Kings Cross
3 hrs 58 mins Get Tickets
20:12 London Waterloo East23:56 Darlington2 changesLondon Bridge
Stevenage
3 hrs 44 mins Get Tickets
20:42 London Waterloo East00:57 Darlington2 changesLondon Bridge
Peterborough
4 hrs 15 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for London Waterloo East to Darlington 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 London Waterloo East to Darlington start from £85.80 one way

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 London Waterloo East to Darlington are available for £187.00 one way

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 London Waterloo East Station

Exploring London Waterloo East Train Station: A Convenient Gateway to Discover the City

Looking to explore the vibrant city of London and beyond? London Waterloo East train station is your perfect starting point. Conveniently situated, the station serves as a vital link, connecting you to numerous destinations within London and across the UK. Let’s dive into the details of what London Waterloo East has to offer and why it's an ideal choice for your travel plans.

Facilities and Amenities at London Waterloo East

Though London Waterloo East is a bustling hub, it provides essential amenities to ensure a smooth experience for travelers. While it lacks a traditional ticket office, fear not—ticket machines are readily available for both purchase and collection of pre-booked tickets. Accessibility is thoughtfully catered for, with accessible ticket machines and step-free access via lifts from Waterloo Main station. Need assistance? Help points are clearly marked, and staff are on hand to lend a helping hand when needed.

For those traveling with youngsters or seeking some comfort, the station hosts heated waiting rooms and accessible toilets with baby-changing facilities. CCTV surveillance is in place to ensure a secure environment throughout your journey. Hungry or in need of caffeine fix? Grab a snack or a hot drink from the coffee shops and vending machines on site—no worries about missing the news as newspapers are available too!

Onward Travel: Connecting You Further

Transportation links play a crucial role in making your journey seamless. London Waterloo East does not disappoint with its comprehensive connections to other parts of the city. The bus alighting point on Sandell Street ensures easy access to local transit and rail replacement services. If you're planning an onward journey by train, numerous exciting routes can spark your travel imagination.

Popular Routes: Embark on an Adventure

Dreaming of exploring iconic locations within and around London? London Waterloo East provides access to some fantastic destinations. Whether you're commuting or planning a day trip to explore new locales, this station links you to areas such as London Bridge, London Charing Cross, and Hither Green. With easy routes to places like East Croydon or Tonbridge, your adventures are just a train ride away.

Why Choose London Waterloo East?

As a commuter or an explorer, stepping through the doors of London Waterloo East gives you the flexibility and freedom to travel with ease. Whether it’s the convenience of arriving at London Bridge or the cultural allure of reaching London Charing Cross, this station offers it all. Its facilities cater to your needs, including accessibility and necessary travel support.

Embark on Your Journey Today!

Booking your ticket is the first step to countless experiences waiting at your fingertips. With easy access to online ticket collection, friendly staff to assist, and comprehensive travel links, London Waterloo East is not just a station—it's the beginning of your next adventure. Time to pack your bags, hop on board, and embrace the journey!

Everything you need to know about Darlington Station

Welcome to Darlington Train Station

Whether you're planning a quick work trip or seeking the ideal starting point for a British rail getaway, Darlington Train Station stands ready with all the essentials for a smooth and enjoyable journey. Nestled at the heart of the North East, this station is a critical hub, offering a variety of services and connections that cater to both seasoned commuters and adventurous travelers. Explore the station, pour over ticket options, and choose from an array of destinations—from the bustling city life to serene coastal retreats.

Station Facilities and Services

Darlington Train Station is equipped with a comprehensive range of facilities designed to ensure that your journey is comfortable and hassle-free. Ticketing is made easy with both staffed ticket office services and accessible ticket machines, available throughout the week, catering to your needs whether it's early morning or late evening. Accessibility is a priority here, with step-free access available to all platforms, ensuring all passengers can navigate the station with ease. The station also boasts accessible ticket machines and toilets, induction loops for the hearing impaired, and staff assistance for those who need extra help boarding trains.

Passengers can take comfort in the heated waiting rooms, which are easily accessible and equipped with seating at an appropriate height. Toilets, including accessible facilities, are conveniently located on the Main Concourse and adjacent to Platform 2, accessible with a RADAR key. Regarding security, the station has CCTV coverage and secure bicycle storage, making the transition from pedal to platform a breeze.

Onward Travel Options

Getting around from Darlington Station is straightforward, thanks to its extensive transport links. With taxis readily available at the station rank, there's minimal waiting time to start your journey from the platform to your next adventure. For those planning ahead, Station Taxis can be reached at 01325 468 888. If you prefer a greener option, local buses cater to the station with Arriva's bus route 12/A conveniently linking the vicinity with Durham Tees Valley Airport, a mere stroll away. Want detailed travel plans? Printable journey itineraries are at your fingertips here.

Popular Travel Routes

Darlington isn't just a gateway—it's your pathway to a myriad of destinations. You can easily catch a train to bustling cities and scenic spots alike. For an urban exploration, take a train to Newcastle or York, or perhaps embark on an adventure to London Kings Cross for a taste of the capital. Nature lovers and history buffs can venture to Edinburgh or Durham, soaking in breathtaking vistas along the way. Ready for traditional seaside charm? Consider a trip to Saltburn or Redcar Central for an unforgettable coastal escape. Each journey promises fresh perspectives and exciting opportunities.

Making the Most of Your Journey

With a relaxed atmosphere and a wealth of services, Darlington Station is not just a stop—it's a gateway to adventure. Whether you’re off to London Kings Cross or rolling over to Middlesbrough, make sure you purchase your tickets in advance for the best rates and availability. Get the most out of your travel experience with the convenience and efficiency only Darlington Train Station can offer.

Time to Embark

Pack your bags, plan your itinerary, and let Darlington Train Station be the springboard for your UK travel adventures. With its strategic facilities, comprehensive services, and myriad destinations within arm's reach, you are well-prepared to embark on your next journey with ease and excitement. Make your travel dreams a reality—grab your tickets and set your compass towards discovery. Safe travels!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from London Waterloo East