Trains to London

London is the hub of the UK's rail network, with frequent services to all corners of the country from the city's centrally-located mainline railway stations. Rail services in the UK are run by a set of private train operating companies. Your point of departure will determine the best service to take and your station of arrival in London.

Popular Rail Services and Average Journey Times

The fastest city-centre-to-city-centre journeys to London are:

• Bristol: 1 hour 45 mins (via First Great Western)
• Cardiff: 2 hours (via First Great Western)
• Birmingham: 1 hour 30 mins (via Virgin Trains)
• Manchester: 2 hours 15 mins (via Virgin Trains)
• York: 2 hours (via National Express East Coast)
• Newcastle: 3 hours (via National Express East Coast)
• Edinburgh: 4 hours 30 mins (via National Express East Coast)
• Glasgow: 5 hours (via National Express East Coast or Virgin Trains)
• Leicester: 1 hour 25 mins (via Midland Mainline)
• Nottingham: 1 hour 30 mins (via midland Mainline)
• Derby: 2 hours (via Midland Mainline)
• Sheffield: 2 hours 30 mins (via Midland Mainline) 

Travelling by Train - Facilities and Tips

Most rail services offer First and Standard Class accommodation. Many long-distance and inter-city services have a buffet car or at-seat trolley service for drinks and snacks. Always be sure to be on board your train a couple of minutes before the scheduled departure time as many trains have automatic doors that shut 40 seconds before departure.

All of the major stations have direct Tube links (with the ex Fenchurch Street, close to Tower Hill and Aldgate Tube stations). London's larger stations include shops where you can pick up a bite to eat, a drink and something to read on your journey. A chemist is also standard. Some stations even boast retail outlets selling clothes, gifts, and much more!

Using Trains with a Disability

There is variation in wheelchair accessibility for different trains and stations. It's a good idea to check before travelling to ensure a hassle-free journey.

Arrangements can be made for passengers with mobility impairments, including people who use wheelchairs. Train operating companies can usually arrange for staff to meet you at the station, accompany you to the train and see you safely on board. Ramps can be provided for people using wheelchairs, to get on and off trains easily.

See the National Rail Enquiries/Disabled Passengers for more information. You can also telephone the enquiries line on +44 (0)8457 48 49 50. The Disabled Persons Railcard qualifies you for up to a third off fares. See the Disabled Persons Railcard website for details.