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Trains from Maidstone East to
Helmsdale

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Maidstone East to Helmsdale by train

Planning a train journey from Maidstone East to Helmsdale? The trip usually takes about 18hrs 23 mins, covering approximately 501 miles (807 kilometres). With roughly 3 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 £66.50, offering an economical choice for savvy travelers.

Maidstone East to Helmsdale Key Stats

Arrival Station

Helmsdale

Departure Station

Maidstone East

Frequency

3trains
per day

Journey Time

from13hrs 54 mins

Changes

4-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

07:14 / 00:27

Distance

501miles
(807 km)

2 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£66.50

Travelling from Maidstone East to Helmsdale by Train

Jump on a Train from Maidstone East to Helmsdale – It's Quicker Than You Expect!

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

Typically, the trip takes about 18hrs 23 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Maidstone East, the quickest trains can get you there in just 13hrs 54 mins. With approximately 3 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 501-mile (807 km) route usually requires just one change, with Lumo, ScotRail, Southeastern, Caledonian Sleeper, London North Eastern Railway 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 £66.50, 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 Helmsdale!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Maidstone East and Helmsdale

Curious about your trip from Maidstone East 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 Maidstone East and Helmsdale by train?

The travel time between Maidstone East and Helmsdale by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 18hrs 23 mins & the fastest journey takes 13hrs 54 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Maidstone East to Helmsdale is 13hrs 54 mins.

How much does the train from Maidstone East to Helmsdale cost?

Train ticket prices from Maidstone East 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 Maidstone East and Helmsdale?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Maidstone East and Helmsdale vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 3 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 07:14, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:27.

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

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

What amenities are available on trains between Maidstone East and Helmsdale?

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

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

By booking your tickets on traintickets.com! There are many ways to save on the cost of train travel between Maidstone East 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 Maidstone East to Helmsdale?

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Maidstone East & Helmsdale. However, there are 3 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Maidstone East to Helmsdale?

Lumo, ScotRail, Southeastern, Caledonian Sleeper and London North Eastern Railway are the main train operating companies running services between Maidstone East and Helmsdale.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Maidstone East and Helmsdale?

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

When are Maidstone East to Helmsdale Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Maidstone East to Helmsdale on Friday 2nd May 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Friday 2nd May
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
07:14 Maidstone East21:08 Helmsdale4 changesLondon Bridge
London Kings Cross
Edinburgh
Inverness
13 hrs 54 mins Get Tickets
18:14 Maidstone East13:12 Helmsdale3 changesLondon Bridge
London Euston
Inverness
18 hrs 58 mins Get Tickets
23:13 Maidstone East21:08 Helmsdale4 changesLondon Victoria
London Kings Cross
Edinburgh
Inverness
21 hrs 55 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Maidstone East 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 Maidstone East 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 Maidstone East to Helmsdale start from £132.50 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 Maidstone East to Helmsdale are available for £265.80 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 Maidstone East Station

Exploring Maidstone East: Your Portal to the Heart of Kent

Imagine embarking on a journey through the historic heart of Kent, with its rolling hills and quaint villages. Maidstone East Station is your gateway to this adventure. Whether you're a daily commuter, planning a leisurely weekend trip, or considering a day out to explore the charming locales of the area, Maidstone East provides an array of services to meet your travel needs. Let's take a closer look at what you can expect when travelling through Maidstone East.

Station Facilities at Maidstone East

The station is equipped with a comprehensive ticketing service, featuring a ticket office open from early morning till night on weekdays and weekends. This ensures that you can purchase your tickets or collect those bought online at your convenience. Maidstone East also provides accessible ticket machines, an induction loop for those with hearing impairments, and smartcard issuance for streamlined travel.

For passenger convenience, the station offers step-free access, ensuring ease of navigation for everyone. Although luggage storage facilities are currently unavailable, travelers can benefit from amenities such as heated waiting rooms and accessible toilets on Platform 1 during staffing hours. Safety is paramount, and CCTV coverage throughout ensures peace of mind for travelers.

Getting Around: Transport Links from Maidstone East

Once at Maidstone East, your onward journey is seamless with various transport connections available. For those relying on bus services, the rail replacement bus stop is conveniently located on Week Street. Taxi services are a stone's throw away at the Platform 1 exit, offering direct access to the surrounding areas. If you need more detailed journey planning for bus routes, printable resources can be found to guide your travel.

Top Train Destinations from Maidstone East

From the bustling streets of London Victoria to the picturesque settings of Maidstone East to West Malling, travel enthusiasts have captivating routes to explore via train. You can plan visits to the iconic London Bridge or delve into the rich history of Canterbury West. Trips to Ashford International can open opportunities for international travel, while explorations within Kent through destinations like Bearsted, Snodland, and East Malling offer a serene escape.

For those interested in further-reaching connections, services to Stratford International put you within a stone's throw of some of the UK's major transport hubs.

Wrapping Up Your Travel Experience

In summary, Maidstone East Station stands out as a pivotal transport hub for both local and long-distance journeys. Its extensive amenities cater to a wide range of passenger needs, ensuring a smooth travel experience. Whether you're beginning a local adventure or embarking on a journey to distant shores, Maidstone East is the perfect starting point. With an easy-to-navigate layout and friendly staff, it makes your rail travel both convenient and relaxing. So why wait? Start planning your journey from Maidstone East Station today and discover the many wonders Kent and beyond have to offer!

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 Maidstone East