This websites requires JavaScript to work. It looks like your browser doesn't support JavaScript, or has it turned off. Please try again with JavaScript support.

70% of our customers find a cheaper split ticket, saving £25 on average

Trains from Sunderland to
Retford

Search for Split Tickets to get the Cheapest Fares (save up to 90%)

No card or booking fees

Sunderland to Retford by train

Considering a train trip from Sunderland to Retford? The journey typically lasts around 3hrs 38 mins and spans about 111 miles (179 kilometres). With approximately 14 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 £12.00, making it a budget-friendly option for smart travelers.

Sunderland to Retford Key Stats

Arrival Station

Retford

Departure Station

Sunderland

Frequency

14trains
per day

Journey Time

from2hrs 21 mins

Changes

1-2no direct
trains

First Train / Last Train

06:46 / 22:50

Distance

111miles
(179 km)

7 Routes

5 Train Operators

Prices

from£12.00

Travelling from Sunderland to Retford by Train

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

The typical travel time is about 3hrs 38 mins, but if you're in a hurry or just eager to arrive, the fastest trains can whisk you there in just 2hrs 21 mins. With approximately 14 trains running daily, you have a wealth of options to choose from. This scenic route, spanning 111 miles (179 km), generally involves just one transfer, and operators like London North Eastern Railway, Grand Central, First Hull Trains, Northern Rail, First TransPennine Express 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 £12.00, 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 Retford!

Journey Details

Frequently asked questions about journeys between Sunderland and Retford

Curious about your trip from Sunderland to Retford? 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 Sunderland and Retford by train?

The travel time between Sunderland and Retford by train varies depending on the type of train and the route, but the average journey time is 3hrs 38 mins & the fastest journey takes 2hrs 21 mins.

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

The fastest journey time by train from Sunderland to Retford is 2hrs 21 mins.

How much does the train from Sunderland to Retford cost?

Train ticket prices from Sunderland to Retford can start from as little as £12.00 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 Sunderland and Retford?

The departure and arrival times for trains between Sunderland and Retford vary depending on the day of the week and the type of train. Generally, there are around 14 departures and arrivals throughout the day. The first departure is 06:46, and the last train of the day leaves at 22:50.

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

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

What amenities are available on trains between Sunderland and Retford?

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

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

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

No, unfortunately there are no direct trains between Sunderland & Retford. However, there are 14 possible journeys which require a change.

What train companies run services from Sunderland to Retford?

London North Eastern Railway, Grand Central, First Hull Trains, Northern Rail and First TransPennine Express are the main train operating companies running services between Sunderland and Retford.

Can I bring luggage on board trains between Sunderland and Retford?

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

When are Sunderland to Retford Train Times?

Check out the upcoming trains from Sunderland to Retford 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
13:32 Sunderland16:18 Retford2 changesNewcastle
Doncaster
2 hrs 46 mins Get Tickets
14:37 Sunderland17:59 Retford2 changesThornaby
Leeds
3 hrs 22 mins Get Tickets
15:30 Sunderland18:17 Retford2 changesYork
Doncaster
2 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
17:30 Sunderland20:17 Retford2 changesYork
Doncaster
2 hrs 47 mins Get Tickets
18:28 Sunderland21:30 Retford2 changesNewcastle
Leeds
3 hrs 2 mins Get Tickets
20:29 Sunderland23:02 Retford1 changeNewcastle
2 hrs 33 mins Get Tickets
21:29 Sunderland05:49 Retford2 changesNewcastle
Leeds
8 hrs 20 mins Get Tickets
22:29 Sunderland06:50 Retford2 changesNewcastle
Doncaster
8 hrs 21 mins Get Tickets
Search all times & prices for today

What are my cheap ticket options for Sunderland to Retford 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 Sunderland to Retford start from as little as £12.00

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 Sunderland to Retford start from £46.50 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 Sunderland to Retford are available for £72.70 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 Sunderland Station

Sunderland Train Station: Your Gateway to the North East

Nestled in the heart of North East England, Sunderland Train Station serves as a vital transport hub, providing a plethora of services and conveniences for travelers. Whether you are a local commuter or a visitor exploring the scenic beauty of the North East, Sunderland Station is poised to make your journey a smooth and pleasant experience. The station is a key point of departure for an exciting range of destinations, connecting you to major cities and charming locales.

Facilities at Sunderland Station

The station is well-equipped with a ticket office open from early morning until the evening, providing flexibility for purchasing and collecting tickets. Ticket machines are available around the clock, and the accessible machines make it easy for all travelers to get their tickets effortlessly. A smartcard facility is also on hand for those frequent travelers looking to streamline their journey.

Travelers who may need assistance will find help readily available at Sunderland Station. Staff are on duty to offer aid throughout most of the day and night, with facilities such as an induction loop in place to aid those with hearing impairments. Although there is no CCTV, customer help is accessible via contact numbers for added support.

Accessibility and Amenities

Sunderland Train Station boasts comprehensive accessibility with step-free access to all areas, including lifts to each platform. This makes it a Category A station, suitable for all passengers, particularly those with mobility challenges. With waiting rooms not in service, comfort is still maintained with ample seating available throughout. Although there are no accessible toilets, baby-changing facilities are provided to cater to those traveling with young children.

While you'll find essential facilities like refreshment options, the absence of shops means planning ahead is wise. There are no ATM or currency exchange services, so grabbing cash beforehand would be beneficial. Wi-Fi isn't available at the station, ensuring you stay off the grid while traveling or stay entertained through other offline means.

Travel Connections and Onward Journeys

Making onward journeys from Sunderland Station is seamless with its diverse transport links. The station is conveniently located near a taxi rank, making it easy to hail a cab for quick city escapes. For a more economical option, there are several local bus services to choose from. Additionally, the nearby Tyne and Wear Metro station further expands connectivity across the region.

Destinations Awaiting You

The array of destinations accessible from Sunderland is vast and enticing. Travel directly to bustling hubs like London King's Cross and Manchester Piccadilly link link, or head to the cultural hotspots of Edinburgh link and Leeds link. Have a tranquil trip to the beautiful city of York link, or enjoy a coastal visit to scenic destinations like Hartlepool link and Seaham link.

Conclusion

Sunderland Train Station is more than just a starting point for your travels in the UK; it’s a launching pad to adventure. With comprehensive facilities, accessibility options, and seamless travel links, it creates the perfect balance of convenience and connectivity. Whether you’re heading to a metropolitan marvel or a serene seaside escape, Sunderland offers routes that reflect the diverse essence of the UK. Make sure to organize your ticketing needs in advance to ensure a hassle-free start to your journey!

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!

Looking for more inspiration?

Popular places to travel by train from Sunderland