- Recommended
Pontefract Museum
Town museum beside the castle with displays on local history, everyday life and Pontefract’s past. A practical first stop for understanding the area.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chester to Pontefract
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Take a train from Chester to Pontefract and enjoy the approximately 118 km long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 06:19, the last at 19:36.
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 118 km |
First train 6:19 |
Last train 19:36 |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
Live departures
Chester to Pontefract train times
The table below shows live departures for Chester to Pontefract trains for today, Wednesday 7 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 6:20 Chester | 2h42 | 9:02 Pontefract Tanshelf | 2 changes | |
| 7:21 Chester | 2h41 | 10:02 Pontefract Tanshelf | 2 changes | |
| 8:20 Chester | 2h42 | 11:02 Pontefract Tanshelf | 2 changes | |
| 9:27 Chester | 2h35 | 12:02 Pontefract Tanshelf | 2 changes | |
| 10:26 Chester | 2h36 | 13:02 Pontefract Tanshelf | 2 changes | |
| 11:26 Chester | 2h36 | 14:02 Pontefract Tanshelf | 2 changes | |
| 12:26 Chester | 2h36 | 15:02 Pontefract Tanshelf | 2 changes | |
| 13:25 Chester | 2h37 | 16:02 Pontefract Tanshelf | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Train companies: Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited from Chester to Pontefract trainsTransport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Chester and Pontefract. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Transport for Wales
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£50
Transport for Wales frequency
3 a day
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Northern Trains Limited Duration
2h 35m
Cheapest Northern Trains Limited Price
£41
Northern Trains Limited frequency
13 a day
Complete guide to Pontefract
Things to do in Pontefract
Discover the best of Pontefract — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Pontefract trip today.
- Recommended
Pontefract Castle Visitor Centre
Castle visitor exhibition interpreting the site’s royal, military and prison history. A compact museum-style stop that adds context to the ruins outside.
The Harte
Volunteer-run heritage centre covering the district’s coal mining story through machinery, artefacts and personal memories. An informative local favourite.
- Recommended
Ropergate
Central pedestrian-friendly shopping street with historic buildings and easy access to major sights. A useful area for getting a feel for the town centre.
- Recommended
Market Place
Traditional market area lined with historic frontages and civic buildings. Worth a stroll for the town’s layout, atmosphere and regular market activity.
- Recommended
Pontefract Park
Open parkland around the racecourse with paths and broad views. Suitable for a longer walk and for seeing a different side of Pontefract.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Pontefract Cakes
Soft liquorice sweets made with liquorice root and sugar. Pontefract is famous for these historic lozenge-style cakes first produced here in the 18th century.
Yorkshire Beef Stew
A robust Yorkshire stew of beef, root vegetables and gravy, slowly cooked for comfort in colder months. A classic local pub and home dish across West Yorkshire.
Meat and Potato Pie
Minced beef and onion in shortcrust pastry, commonly sold by Yorkshire bakers. It is a staple savoury snack in the region and popular for lunch.
Tulsi Indian Restaurant
Established Indian restaurant serving curries, tandoori dishes and familiar favourites in a comfortable town-centre setting.
The Red Lion
Traditional pub in Pontefract known for classic British meals, cask ales and a relaxed local atmosphere.
Kyte Hotel Restaurant
Stylish restaurant and bar in nearby Darrington serving modern British dishes, steaks and cocktails in smart surroundings.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Dining and local transport are manageable, while hotel prices are usually lower than in major cities such as London or York.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a basic meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafés do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
Best day trips from Pontefract by train
The most popular day trips by train from Pontefract are Leeds, York, Wakefield, Doncaster and Sheffield. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Pontefract on Omio.
Day trip from Pontefract to Leeds by train
Why visit Leeds for the day?
Leeds is a major West Yorkshire city known for Victorian arcades, shopping and a lively music scene. Its industrial heritage, regenerated waterfront and large student population give it an energetic but down-to-earth character.
How to get from Pontefract to Leeds by train?
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:24, the last at 23:20. The fastest train covers the 19 km distance in 33m.
Day trip from Pontefract to York by train
Why visit York for the day?
York is known for its Roman and Viking heritage, medieval streets and the imposing York Minster. Its compact centre, old walls and busy mix of shops, pubs and museums make it easy to grasp the city's historic character.
How to get from Pontefract to York by train?
The earliest train runs at 02:29, the last at 22:34. The fastest train covers the 33 km distance in 37m.
Day trip from Pontefract to Wakefield by train
Why visit Wakefield for the day?
Wakefield is a West Yorkshire city known for its cathedral, market roots and modern art scene. With The Hepworth Wakefield, nearby Yorkshire Sculpture Park and the River Calder, it mixes industrial heritage with contemporary culture.
How to get from Pontefract to Wakefield by train?
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:37, the last at 23:19. The fastest train covers the 12 km distance in 19m.
Day trip from Pontefract to Doncaster by train
Why visit Doncaster for the day?
Doncaster is a South Yorkshire city known for horse racing, rail heritage and one of England’s oldest markets. Its centre mixes market-town character with modern shopping, while the wider area is popular for family days out.
How to get from Pontefract to Doncaster by train?
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:36, the last at 22:58. The fastest train covers the 22 km distance in 22m.
Day trip from Pontefract to Sheffield by train
Why visit Sheffield for the day?
Sheffield is known for its steelmaking heritage, modern music culture and easy access to green space. It feels both urban and outdoorsy, with Victorian buildings, independent venues and the Peak District nearby.
How to get from Pontefract to Sheffield by train?
The earliest train runs at 05:15, the last at 22:58.
FAQs: Chester to Pontefract train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chester to Pontefract 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 Pontefract, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The train distance from Chester to Pontefract is 118 km.
The first train from Chester to Pontefract leaves at 6:19.
The last train from Chester to Pontefract departs at 19:36.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chester to Pontefract.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Chester to Pontefract.
There is no night train service from Chester to Pontefract.
Booking trains from Chester to Pontefract 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 Pontefract offers a blend of urban and countryside views, with picturesque landscapes around the Yorkshire area, providing a pleasant travel experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Chester to Pontefract.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chester and Pontefract
Most Chester to Pontefract trains use the Chester to Pontefract Tanshelf station pair, with some services arriving at Pontefract Monkhill. Use this guide to compare Chester and Pontefract 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 Pontefract
Which Chester station do trains to Pontefract leave from?
Trains from Chester to Pontefract 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 Pontefract station do trains from Chester arrive at?
Trains from Chester to Pontefract most often arrive at Pontefract Tanshelf. Some services arrive at Pontefract Monkhill, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Pontefract arrival station.
Pontefract TanshelfPontefract Tanshelf station, Park Road, Pontefract, West Yorkshire, WF8 4QA+44 8002006060
City-centre transport
Getting to Pontefract Tanshelf from Pontefract city centre
Bus144 · 9m · every ~2 min
Pontefract Tanshelf train station facilities and services
Pontefract Tanshelf has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Pontefract Tanshelf.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Pontefract Tanshelf: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Pontefract Tanshelf: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Pontefract Tanshelf: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Station is unstaffed. However no access problems for disabled or wheelchair users as the access to the platforms is via the ramped footbridge, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Pontefract MonkhillPontefract Monkhill station, Monkhill Lane, Pontefract, West Yorkshire, WF8 2NX+44 3332220125
City-centre transport
Getting to Pontefract Monkhill from Pontefract city centre
TrainLeeds - Knottingley · 2m · £0.89 · every ~2 min
Bus149, 148, 186, Sw3, 157 · 3m · £2 · every ~16 min
149, 148 · 10m · £2 · every ~11 min
Pontefract Monkhill train station facilities and services
Pontefract Monkhill has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Pontefract Monkhill.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Pontefract Monkhill: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Pontefract Monkhill: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Pontefract Monkhill: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B Station, Station is unstaffed. No step-free access to platform2, which is via stepped footbridge. There is level access from the station entrance to platform 1, 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, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
More options for your journey from Chester to Pontefract
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Pontefract and Chester
Most popular train connections to Pontefract
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
