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Trains from Rochester to
Helmsdale

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Rochester to Helmsdale by train

Considering a train trip from Rochester to Helmsdale? The journey typically lasts around 18hrs 4 mins and spans about 494 miles (795 kilometres). With approximately 3 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 £66.50, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Rochester to Helmsdale Key Stats

Arrival Station

Helmsdale

Departure Station

Rochester

Frequency

3trains
per day

Journey Time

from13hrs 36 mins

Changes

4-4no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

07:32 / 00:33

Distance

494miles
(795 km)

2 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£66.50

Travelling from Rochester to Helmsdale by Train

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

The typical travel time is about 18hrs 4 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 13hrs 36 mins. With approximately 3 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 494 miles (795 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like ScotRail, Southeastern, Lumo, London North Eastern Railway, Caledonian Sleeper 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 £66.50, 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 Helmsdale!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Rochester and Helmsdale

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

The travel time between Rochester and Helmsdale by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 18hrs 4 mins & the fastest journey takes 13hrs 36 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Rochester to Helmsdale is 13hrs 36 mins.

How much does the train from Rochester to Helmsdale cost?

Train ticket prices from Rochester 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 Rochester and Helmsdale?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Rochester 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 07:32, and the last train of the day leaves at 00:33.

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

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

What amenities are available on trains between Rochester and Helmsdale?

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

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

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

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

What train companies run services from Rochester to Helmsdale?

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

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

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

When are Rochester to Helmsdale Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Rochester to Helmsdale on Wednesday 30th April 2025, with our handy timetable below.

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

Wednesday 30th April
DepartsArrivesChangesVia StationsDurationOperator
19:38 Rochester13:12 Helmsdale3 changesLondon Victoria
London Euston
Inverness
17 hrs 34 mins Get Tickets
23:27 Rochester21:08 Helmsdale4 changesLondon Victoria
London Kings Cross
Edinburgh
Inverness
21 hrs 41 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Rochester 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 Rochester 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 Rochester to Helmsdale start from £131.80 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 Rochester to Helmsdale are available for £261.20 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 Rochester Station

Welcome to Rochester Train Station

If you're planning a visit to the historic city of Rochester, you're in for a real treat! Known for its stunning Dickensian heritage, this quaint area in Kent is easily accessible via Rochester Train Station. Whether you're a local commuter or a curious traveler, this article will help you navigate the station's facilities, onward transport options, and popular travel routes from this charming hub.

Facilities and Amenities at Rochester Train Station

Rochester Train Station is well-equipped with facilities that cater to various passenger needs. The ticket office is open from 06:10 to 19:30 on weekdays and has limited hours on Saturdays. Don't worry if you can't get there during office hours; there are ticket machines available for easy access to your train tickets. For those who have purchased tickets online, they can readily collect them at the station's ticket machine.

A handful of amenities ensure a comfortable waiting experience, including accessible ticket machines and induction loops for the hearing impaired. While there's no dedicated waiting room, comfortable seating areas are available. Attention has been given to accessibility - the facility boasts step-free access via lifts, accommodating passengers with mobility needs. Refreshment options include a coffee shop and vending machines, and for any quick errands, a shop selling newspapers is conveniently located on-site.

Transport Links and Onward Travel Options

Rochester Station is not only well-connected by rail but also offers an array of onward travel connections. Should you require a bus route planner, printable guides are readily available. The station also caters for rail replacement services, with bus stops conveniently located on Corporation Street. These buses provide routes towards Gillingham, Strood, and Meopham - perfect for further exploring the Medway Towns.

You'll find that traveling onward to nearby towns is as easy as pie. Although there are no specific car hire facilities, taxis are easily accessible, making your dispatch from the station hassle-free.

Popular Routes from Rochester Train Station

If you're feeling adventurous and want to explore destinations further afield, Rochester Station offers frequent services to some of the best spots in and around London. For city lovers, trains to London Victoria and London St Pancras International are a fantastic option. Southeast travel options include regular services to Gillingham, Canterbury East, and Faversham.

Notably, the train station is an excellent gateway to explore more of Kent with direct routes to Bromley South, Sittingbourne, and Rainham. These multiple routes open up a world of opportunity to absorb the variety and charm that the UK has to offer.

The Final Track

Rochester Train Station holds the key to uncovering both urban jungles and scenic countrysides. With its user-friendly approach, this station makes embarking on or continuing your journey a seamless experience. From excellent accessibility features to convenient onward travel services, it's clear that Rochester Station can cater to the varied needs of all passengers.

Whether it's journeying to the bustling city of London or discovering the quaint countryside of Kent, Rochester ensures you'll do so comfortably and efficiently. So, consider booking your tickets today and start planning your adventure from this historical gem!

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 Rochester