- Recommended
Danum Gallery, Library and Museum
A city-centre museum with Roman and social history displays, local artefacts and changing exhibitions that introduce Doncaster's past.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chester to Doncaster
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 18 Sept
Cheapest price on 18 Sept
£63
Average ticket price on 18 Sept
£63
Fastest journey on 18 Sept
2 h 38 m
Average journey duration on 18 Sept
2 h 43 m
Trains on 18 Sept
10
Distance
122 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chester to Doncaster is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chester to Doncaster will cost around £63 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £63.
Fast trains
To travel from Chester to Doncaster you need to make at least one change.
G38505+
W846484:552h41Chester station (CTR)7:36Doncaster station (DON)£631One-way1 change- G38682+
L89066+W846585:593h37Chester station (CTR)9:36Doncaster station (DON)£631One-way2 changes - L89009+W846535:562h41Chester station (CTR)8:37Doncaster station (DON)£631One-way1 change
- G38508+W846586:522h44Chester station (CTR)9:36Doncaster station (DON)£631One-way1 change
- G38685 · G38943+W846586:582h38Chester station (CTR)9:36Doncaster station (DON)£631One-way2 changes
- G38685 · G38943+W846586:582h38Chester station (CTR)9:36Doncaster station (DON)£631One-way2 changes
- G38505+W846484:552h41Chester station (CTR)7:36Doncaster station (DON)£631One-way1 change
- L89009+W846535:562h41Chester station (CTR)8:37Doncaster station (DON)£631One-way1 change
- G38508+W846586:522h44Chester station (CTR)9:36Doncaster station (DON)£631One-way1 change
- G89109+W84776+
G079646:202h51Chester station (CTR)9:11Doncaster station (DON)£671One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train for Chester to Doncaster
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chester to Doncaster among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £55 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 40m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £55, while a train costs an average of £55.
Distance: 122 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£55 Average Price Cheapest | £25 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 40m Average total duration Fastest 2h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chester to Doncaster is a train with an average price of £55.
The fastest way to travel from Chester to Doncaster is by train with an average journey time of 2h 10m.
Yes, you can take a train between Chester and Doncaster.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 2m sooner (2h 10m by train vs 2h 12m by car). Tickets start at around £55 compared to roughly £25 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Chester to Doncaster by train
Compare 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
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19 Sept
19 Sept
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20 Sept
20 Sept
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21 Sept
21 Sept
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22 Sept
22 Sept
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23 Sept
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24 Sept
24 Sept
Why should you book Chester to Doncaster trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as East Midlands Railway or Transport for Wales offer trains services from Chester to Doncaster.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chester to Doncaster.
Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Chester to Doncaster.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
Why book with Omio over Trip, Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Chester to Doncaster.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chester to Doncaster
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chester to Doncaster run on average 9 times per day, taking around 2h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £50 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:55, the last at 23:40. The fastest train covers the 122 km distance in 2h 31m.
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
Distance 122 km |
Average train duration 2h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price £50 |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 2h 31m |
First train 4:55 |
Last train 23:40 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 7 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
Train companies: Northern Rail, East Midlands Railway, Transport for Wales from Chester to Doncaster trainsNorthern Rail, East Midlands Railway, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Chester and Doncaster from £50. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Rail Duration
2h 39m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£61
Northern Rail frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
East Midlands Railway
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
East Midlands Railway frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone
Transport for Wales
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£50
Transport for Wales frequency
25 a day
Complete guide to Doncaster
Things to do in Doncaster
Discover the best of Doncaster — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Doncaster trip today.
- Recommended
South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum
An aviation museum at the former RAF airfield, featuring military aircraft, cockpit displays and volunteers sharing local flying history.
Doncaster Railway Heritage Centre
A working heritage railway site with station exhibits, historic rolling stock and a compact museum atmosphere for rail enthusiasts.
- Recommended
Potteric Carr Nature Reserve
A large wildlife reserve of lakes, hides and paths, ideal for birdwatching, easy walks and a quiet break near the city.
- Recommended
Doncaster Market
A historic market district with covered halls, independent traders and a lively everyday atmosphere at the heart of Doncaster.
Sir Nigel Gresley Square
A broad civic square beside the markets and cultural venues, useful for events, people-watching and exploring the town centre.
- Vegetarian
Yorkshire Tea Loaf
A rich fruit loaf from nearby Yorkshire, packed with currants and peel. Traditionally served sliced with butter and closely associated with South Yorkshire tea tables.
Yorkshire Oatcake
A sturdy South Yorkshire oatcake cooked like a pancake and eaten with savoury fillings. It reflects the region’s long mining and working-class food traditions.
Bread Cake
A soft white bread cake from South Yorkshire, often filled with bacon, sausages or chips. It is a local staple and a familiar part of everyday eating in Doncaster.
Restaurant 1924
Refined British dining in a smart country-house setting at Bawtry Hall, with tasting menus and polished service.
Movida Tapas Restaurant
Stylish steakhouse and grill in central Doncaster, known for quality cuts, cocktails and a lively modern atmosphere.
La Boca
Popular tapas restaurant with a buzzy atmosphere, serving Spanish small plates and drinks in Doncaster town centre.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are often cheaper than in London, while local buses and everyday costs stay manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a mid-range meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest: 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included, optional in cafés, and rounding up for taxis is common.
Travel South Yorkshire
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.30
To the city centre
Doncaster Station -> Doncaster Interchange, Doncaster
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Adult single bus fares in South Yorkshire are capped at £2.00 on participating services; check your operator before travel.
- Use the Travel South Yorkshire app for journey planning and live departures. Contactless payment availability varies by bus operator.
FAQs: Chester to Doncaster train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chester to Doncaster 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 Doncaster, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Chester to Doncaster can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £50, while the average price tends to be around £55.
The train journey from Chester to Doncaster covers a distance of 122 km and takes approximately 2h 31m. Trains run 9 per day.
The train distance from Chester to Doncaster is 122 km.
The first train from Chester to Doncaster leaves at 4:55.
The last train from Chester to Doncaster departs at 23:40.
Trains from Chester to Doncaster run approximately 9 times per day.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Chester to Doncaster.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Chester to Doncaster.
To travel from Chester to Doncaster, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Chester to Doncaster.
The train station in Chester that goes to Doncaster is Chester station (CTR), and it arrives at Doncaster station (DON).
The cheapest way to get from Chester to Doncaster is by train, costing approximately £50.
Booking trains from Chester to Doncaster in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Chester to Doncaster offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through the picturesque Cheshire countryside and parts of the Peak District, providing some attractive views along the route.
A day trip from Chester to Doncaster is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 31m, with a total distance of 122 km. However, trains operate 4 times per day.
In Doncaster, you can explore Brodsworth Hall and Gardens, a beautifully preserved Victorian country house with stunning gardens. Enjoy birdwatching and walking trails at Potteric Carr Nature Reserve, or have fun at The Dome, a leisure complex with swimming pools and ice skating. Discover local history at Doncaster Museum and Art Gallery, or visit Boston Park Farm for family-friendly encounters with animals and a maize maze. For the best sights, visit Conisbrough Castle for panoramic views, Yorkshire Wildlife Park for exotic animals, and Doncaster Racecourse for major horse racing events. Explore Cusworth Hall with its museum and gardens, and learn about aviation at the South Yorkshire Aircraft Museum.
A two to three-day visit in Doncaster is ideal to explore its main attractions, including the Yorkshire Wildlife Park, Doncaster Racecourse, and the historic Mansion House.
Yes, you can take the train from Chester to Doncaster.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chester and Doncaster
Most Chester to Doncaster trains use the Chester to Doncaster station pair. Use this guide to compare Chester and Doncaster train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chester
Arrival train stations in Doncaster
Which Chester station do trains to Doncaster leave from?
Trains from Chester to Doncaster leave from Chester. The station is 1 km from Chester city centre at Chester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS.
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.
Which Doncaster station do trains from Chester arrive at?
Trains from Chester to Doncaster arrive at Doncaster. Doncaster is from Doncaster city centre.
DoncasterDoncaster station, Station Court, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN1 1PE
City-centre transport
Getting to Doncaster from Doncaster city centre
Bus399 · 3m · £4
384, 387, 388, 384A, 385A, 387A · 5m · every ~18 min
Doncaster train station facilities and services
Doncaster has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Doncaster.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Doncaster. ATMs are available at Doncaster.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Doncaster.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Doncaster: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Doncaster: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Doncaster: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: Phones are low level but not text, Accessible taxis: Advance booking not required, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: , Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Chester
More options for your journey from Chester to Doncaster
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Doncaster and Chester
Most popular train connections to Doncaster
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