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Trains from Retford to
Canterbury West

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Retford to Canterbury West by train

Considering a train trip from Retford to Canterbury West? The journey typically lasts around 3hrs 54 mins and spans about 164 miles (264 kilometres). With approximately 22 trains running each day, you're spoiled for choice when scheduling your travel. By booking your tickets in advance, you could secure fares starting from just £27.50, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Retford to Canterbury West Key Stats

Arrival Station

Canterbury West

Departure Station

Retford

Frequency

22trains
per day

Journey Time

from3hrs 18 mins

Changes

2-3no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

05:50 / 00:06

Distance

164miles
(264 km)

4 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£27.50

Travelling from Retford to Canterbury West by Train

Embark on a train journey from Retford to Canterbury West, and you'll find it's quicker than you might anticipate!

The typical travel time is about 3hrs 54 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 3hrs 18 mins. With approximately 22 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 164 miles (264 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway, Southeastern, First Hull Trains, East Midlands Railway offer comfortable seating with plenty of room for your luggage.

Here's the best part: by booking your tickets in advance, you can snag fares starting from only £27.50, offering a substantial saving over buying tickets at the last minute. For even more savings, consider traveling during Off-Peak times or using a Railcard.

Ready to secure those budget-friendly tickets? Use our Journey Planner to discover the latest deals and keep your travel costs down. Dive into more travel tips below or consult our timetable for up-to-date train schedules. All aboard for Canterbury West!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Retford and Canterbury West

Curious about your trip from Retford to Canterbury West? 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 Retford and Canterbury West by train?

The travel time between Retford and Canterbury West by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 54 mins & the fastest journey takes 3hrs 18 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Retford to Canterbury West is 3hrs 18 mins.

How much does the train from Retford to Canterbury West cost?

Train ticket prices from Retford to Canterbury West can start from as little as £27.50 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 Retford and Canterbury West?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Retford and Canterbury West vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 22 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 05:50, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:06.

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

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

What amenities are available on trains between Retford and Canterbury West?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Retford & Canterbury West. However, there are 22 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Retford to Canterbury West?

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

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Retford and Canterbury West?

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

When are Retford to Canterbury West Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Retford to Canterbury West 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
21:32 Retford00:34 Canterbury West2 changesLondon St Pancras International
3 hrs 2 mins Get Tickets
23:04 Retford07:34 Canterbury West2 changesLondon St Pancras International
8 hrs 30 mins Get Tickets
23:16 Retford08:34 Canterbury West3 changesDoncaster
London St Pancras International
9 hrs 18 mins Get Tickets
23:18 Retford09:34 Canterbury West2 changesSheffield
London St Pancras International
10 hrs 16 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Retford to Canterbury West 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 Retford to Canterbury West start from as little as £27.50

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 Retford to Canterbury West start from £67.00 one way, or £120.00 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 Retford to Canterbury West are available for £145.00 one way, or £230.00 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 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!

Everything you need to know about Canterbury West Station

Exploring Canterbury West Train Station: A Gateway to Adventure

Welcome to Canterbury West, a charming train station set in the historic city of Canterbury. This vibrant hub connects you to various destinations in the United Kingdom, offering a perfect blend of modern amenities and cultural heritage. Whether you're heading for a business trip or a leisurely journey, Canterbury West station is designed to ensure your travel is smooth and comfortable.

Ticketing and Travel Essentials

Canterbury West is equipped with a comprehensive ticket system including a staffed ticket office open from 06:15 to 19:30 on weekdays and Saturdays, while operating reduced hours on Sundays. For your convenience, ticket machines are available for both purchase and collection, and these include accessible options ensuring everyone can get their journey underway with ease. Additionally, smartcard options and validations are provided at the station.

If you require help navigating the station, assistance is available from 05:00 until late into the night, with staff ready to aid you in accessing platforms and boarding trains. For those who need it, step-free access is provided to all platforms, along with the availability of ramps and accessible toilets.

Expect Exceptional Customer Service

Your experience at Canterbury West is enhanced by customer support services that include information points, departure screens, and station announcements to keep you informed. Although there's no waiting room office, seating areas are available for your comfort. Secure station accreditation highlights the station's dedication to customer safety, underpinned by a CCTV system throughout.

Travel and Transit Options

Transport connections extend beyond rail, with a taxi rank conveniently situated at the station entrance. Rail replacement services are coordinated at the station forecourt, and bicycle hire is readily accessible via Brompton Dock. The station also offers a downloadable onward travel map for planning further journeys.

Exciting Destinations Await

Canterbury West provides an ideal starting point for exploring various destinations such as London St Pancras International and Ashford International. You can also travel further afield to places like Brighton or dive into the fascinating towns of Ramsgate and Broadstairs.

Facilities Summary and Conclusion

Refreshment facilities, including a coffee shop and vending machines, cater to your cravings, though unfortunately, there are no ATMs or shops available on-site. Parking is managed by APCOA, offering 112 spaces with an off-peak evening rate starting at £1.50. Whether you're visiting or commuting, Canterbury West invites you to enjoy its streamlined services and connectivity.

In conclusion, Canterbury West is more than a transit point; it's your portal to discovering the charm and allure of the UK. With strategic travel links and a plethora of amenities, it beckons travelers seeking efficient and enjoyable journeys. Remember to book your tickets in advance to ensure a serene start to your rail adventure through this historical corridor.

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Retford