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Trains from Margate to
Helmsdale

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Margate to Helmsdale by train

Planning a train journey from Margate to Helmsdale? The trip usually takes about 18hrs 54 mins, covering approximately 506 miles (815 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.

Margate to Helmsdale Key Stats

Arrival Station

Helmsdale

Departure Station

Margate

Frequency

3trains
per day

Journey Time

from14hrs 19 mins

Changes

4-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:49 / 00:33

Distance

506miles
(815 km)

2 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£66.50

Travelling from Margate to Helmsdale by Train

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

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

Typically, the trip takes about 18hrs 54 mins. If you're rushing or eager to reach Margate, the quickest trains can get you there in just 14hrs 19 mins. With approximately 3 trains operating daily, you have plenty of options. This picturesque 506-mile (815 km) route usually requires just one change, with ScotRail, Lumo, London North Eastern Railway, Caledonian Sleeper, 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 £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 Margate and Helmsdale

Curious about your trip from Margate 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 Margate and Helmsdale by train?

The travel time between Margate and Helmsdale by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 18hrs 54 mins & the fastest journey takes 14hrs 19 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Margate to Helmsdale is 14hrs 19 mins.

How much does the train from Margate to Helmsdale cost?

Train ticket prices from Margate 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 Margate and Helmsdale?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Margate 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 06:49, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:33.

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

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

What amenities are available on trains between Margate and Helmsdale?

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

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

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

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

What train companies run services from Margate to Helmsdale?

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

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

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

When are Margate to Helmsdale Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Margate to Helmsdale 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
18:49 Margate13:12 Helmsdale3 changesLondon St Pancras International
London Euston
Inverness
18 hrs 23 mins Get Tickets
22:17 Margate21:08 Helmsdale4 changesLondon Victoria
London Kings Cross
Edinburgh
Inverness
22 hrs 51 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Margate 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 Margate 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 Margate to Helmsdale start from £136.30 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 Margate to Helmsdale are available for £273.20 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 Margate Station

Welcome to Margate Train Station: Your Gateway to Coastal Adventures

Nestled along the picturesque coastline in Kent, Margate Train Station is a jewel in the crown of seaside travel. Whether you're visiting the charming town for its sandy beaches, artistic venues, or historic streets, the train station serves as your perfect launchpad. With excellent facilities and connections, it's easier than ever to explore Margate's wonders and beyond.

Station Facilities and Services

Margate Train Station offers a myriad of facilities that aim to make your travel experience as seamless as possible. The ticket office is open from 06:15 to 19:30 during weekdays and Saturdays, with reduced hours on Sundays. Tickets can also be purchased from convenient ticket machines, which are accessible for all passengers, including those with limited mobility.

There are induction loops for the hearing impaired, and the station is under constant CCTV surveillance to ensure passenger safety. Assistance is readily available for those needing a hand navigating the station or boarding trains, with staff support on Southeastern trains from Margate. Luggage storage services are not available, but there are ramps for train access, ensuring unimpeded mobility for all visitors.

For those driving to the station, APCOA Parking operates a 110-space car park that's open 24 hours a day, featuring seven accessible spaces. Also, there are refreshment facilities, such as a buffet and vending machines, and an ATM is conveniently located next to the ticket office, for any last-minute cash needs.

Onward Travel Options

Margate Station is well-connected with various transport links to ensure you continue your journey with ease. Rail replacement services are available just in front of the station, next to the Premier Inn. Taxis can be readily found at the station's frontage for a swift ride into town or to your next destination.

To assist in planning your onward journey, detailed bus information is available online, and alternative onward travel resources can be downloaded here. Whether you're heading further into Kent or exploring local attractions, Margate Station makes it straightforward to connect with the wider transport network.

Popular Destinations from Margate

If you're looking to explore further, Margate Station is a fantastic starting point for some popular UK rail journeys. Perhaps you'd like to experience the bustling city life or historical landmarks in London with direct trains to both London St Pancras International and London Victoria. For a quick seaside getaway, nearby destinations such as Broadstairs and Whitstable await.

For those interested in exploring more of Kent’s rich history and heritage, journeying to Canterbury West or Dover Priory offers an insight into England’s storied past. And if you're planning ahead, Ashford International can extend your travels further afield.

Final Thoughts: Your Train Station for Endless Journeys

Margate Train Station is more than just a transit point; it's a gateway to adventure. With its robust selection of amenities and smooth travel connections, passengers are well served whether they're embarking on an exciting journey or returning from one. Start your journey with Margate Station, and let the tracks lead you to new and thrilling experiences. Don’t forget to pre-book your tickets online for the best deals and ensure a worry-free travel planning experience!

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 Margate