- Recommended
Deva Roman Experience
Interactive museum exploring Roman Chester with artefacts, reconstructions and family-friendly displays that bring Deva’s military past to life.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Basingstoke to Chester
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£45
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£75
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
4 h 7 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
4 h 20 m
Trains on 18 Sept
2
Distance
247 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Basingstoke to Chester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Basingstoke to Chester will cost around £75 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £45.
Fast trains
On Fri 18 Sept, we found 2 trains from Basingstoke to Chester, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 247 km distance in an average of 4 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 7 m .
The slowest trains will take 4 h 33 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
7:484h33Basingstoke12:21Chester£451One-way0 changes
8:354h07Basingstoke12:42Chester£1041One-way0 changes
- 8:354h07Basingstoke12:42Chester£1041One-way0 changes
- 7:484h33Basingstoke12:21Chester£451One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Basingstoke to Chester
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Basingstoke to Chester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £42 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 54m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £42, while a train costs an average of £217.
Distance: 247 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£217 Average Price | £42 Average Price Cheapest | £50 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 54m Average total duration Fastest 4h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 0m Average total duration 7h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Basingstoke to Chester is a coach with an average price of £42.
This is compared to other travel options from Basingstoke to Chester:
A coach is £175 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Basingstoke to Chester costing on average £217.
The fastest way to travel from Basingstoke to Chester is by train with an average journey time of 4h 24m.
Other travel options to Chester take longer:
Coach takes on average 7h 30m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Basingstoke and Chester including taking a coach and train.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around £217 compared to roughly £50 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-166.82. The journey takes 4h 24m versus 4h 0m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Basingstoke to Chester train times
The table below shows live departures for Basingstoke to Chester trains for tomorrow, Friday 18 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:48 Basingstoke | 4h33 | 12:21 Chester | 0 changesdirect | |
| 8:35 Basingstoke | 4h07 | 12:42 Chester | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Basingstoke to Chester by coach or train
Compare coach and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Fri
18 Sept
18 Sept
Sat
19 Sept
19 Sept
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20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
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22 Sept
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24 Sept
24 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Basingstoke to Chester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Basingstoke to Chester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £202 but you can travel from only £42 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:48, the last at 20:55. The fastest train covers the 247 km distance in 3h 39m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £42
Distance 247 km |
Average train duration 4h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price £202 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 39m |
First train 4:48 |
Last train 20:55 |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 42 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £42
Train companies: Cross Country from Basingstoke to Chester trainsCross Country trains will get you between Basingstoke and Chester from £42. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Cross Country Duration
3h 39m
Cheapest Cross Country Price
£202
Cross Country frequency
25 a day
Complete guide to Chester
Things to do in Chester
Discover the best of Chester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chester trip today.
- Recommended
Cheshire Military Museum
Museum in a former mill on the River Dee, covering Chester’s social history, period rooms and local stories from Roman times onward.
- Recommended
Dewa Roman Experience
Museum inside Chester Castle tracing regional regiments through uniforms, medals and campaigns in a compact but informative setting.
- Must visit
Chester Rows
Chester’s two-level covered walkways lined with historic shopfronts, ideal for browsing architecture and experiencing the city’s character.
- Recommended
The Groves
Pleasant riverside promenade beside the Dee, popular for walks, boat views and access to bridges, green spaces and the old city centre.
- Recommended
Grosvenor Park
Victorian park near the river with broad lawns, mature trees, bandstand and a peaceful setting for a break from the busy city centre.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cheshire Cheese
A crumbly local cheese from Cheshire, often served on bread or in recipes. It is one of England’s oldest recorded cheeses and closely tied to the county.
- Vegetarian
Cheshire Fruit Loaf
A traditional fruit loaf linked with nearby Cheshire and the North West, made with dried fruit and spice, often sliced and buttered for tea.
Steak And Kidney Pudding
A historic English pudding of suet pastry filled with meat and onion. It is a hearty regional comfort dish long found in Cheshire pubs and homes.
Upstairs At The Grill
Elegant restaurant focused on modern British cooking and tasting menus. A refined choice for a special meal in central Chester.
Jaunty Goat Coffee
Long-established local favourite for hearty breakfasts, lunches and baked goods. Relaxed café atmosphere in the centre of Chester.
Opera Grill
Well-known riverside and city-centre restaurant serving modern British food with steaks, grills and cocktails in a stylish but relaxed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but tourist areas can feel pricey. Buses are reasonable, while central stays cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or tip about 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated for table service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- /u00a32.00
- Day pass
- £2.50
To the city centre
Chester Railway Station -> Chester Bus Interchange, Chester
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Park & Ride tickets can be bought from the driver with cash or contactless card, and are also available in the Stagecoach Bus app.
- Chester station has a RailLink bus from directly outside the station to the city centre. Park & Ride buses serve Chester Bus Interchange and Foregate Street.
FAQs: Basingstoke to Chester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Basingstoke to Chester by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Basingstoke to Chester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £202, while the average price tends to be around £217.
The train journey from Basingstoke to Chester covers a distance of 247 km and takes approximately 3h 39m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Basingstoke to Chester is 247 km.
The first train from Basingstoke to Chester leaves at 4:48.
The last train from Basingstoke to Chester departs at 20:55.
Trains from Basingstoke to Chester run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Basingstoke to Chester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Basingstoke to Chester.
To get from Basingstoke to Chester, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Basingstoke to Chester.
The train station in Basingstoke that goes to Chester is Basingstoke station (BSK), and it arrives at Chester station (CTR).
The cheapest way to get from Basingstoke to Chester is by coach, costing approximately £42.
Booking trains from Basingstoke to Chester in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Basingstoke to Chester offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the picturesque English countryside, including rolling hills and charming villages, particularly as you travel through regions like the Chilterns and the Midlands.
A day trip from Basingstoke to Chester is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 39m. Trains run 5 times per day over a distance of 247 km.
In Chester, you can visit Chester Zoo, one of the UK's largest zoos, or explore the Grosvenor Museum for local history and art. Enjoy a walk or boat trip along the River Dee, or experience cultural offerings at Storyhouse. The Cheshire Military Museum provides insights into military history. Don't miss the stunning Chester Cathedral, the historical Chester Roman Amphitheatre, and the well-preserved Chester City Walls for panoramic views. The Eastgate Clock and The Rows offer iconic sights and unique shopping experiences.
A stay of two to three days in Chester is typically sufficient to explore its historic sites, such as Chester Cathedral, the Roman walls, and the Rows, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Basingstoke to Chester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Basingstoke and Chester
Most Basingstoke to Chester trains use the Basingstoke to Chester station pair. Use this guide to compare Basingstoke and Chester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Basingstoke
Arrival train stations in Chester
Which Basingstoke station do trains to Chester leave from?
Trains from Basingstoke to Chester leave from Basingstoke. The station is 1 km from Basingstoke city centre at Basingstoke station, Station Hill, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 5NB.
BasingstokeBasingstoke station, Station Hill, Basingstoke, Hampshire, RG21 5NB+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Basingstoke from Basingstoke city centre
Bus3, 11, 16 · 5m · £2 · every ~28 min
Basingstoke train station facilities and services
Basingstoke has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Basingstoke.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Basingstoke. ATMs are available at Basingstoke.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Basingstoke.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Basingstoke: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Basingstoke: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Basingstoke: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B2 station. This station has step-free access to all platforms via lifts from the main entrance. The rear entrance has level access to Platforms 4 and 5 (and to other platforms via lifts) but is only open Monday-Friday 0600 until 1000 and from 1500 until 2345 (closed at weekends) - outside these times a stepped subway must be used. The alternative step-free route from the rear to the main entrance via the street is approximately 380m and includes missing dropped kerbs and sections of route without a pavement. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Chester station do trains from Basingstoke arrive at?
Trains from Basingstoke to Chester arrive at Chester. Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre.
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester from Chester city centre
Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus100, 16 · 4m · £4 · every ~2 min
Chester train station facilities and services
Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Chester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from Basingstoke to Chester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chester and Basingstoke
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