- Recommended
Bassetlaw Museum
A local museum in the town hall covering Retford’s history, civic life and nearby Pilgrim Fathers story through compact displays.
.png){kind=small}
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
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Doncaster to Retford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Doncaster to Retford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £4 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 43m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £4, while a train costs an average of £8.
Distance: 26 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£8 Average Price | £4 Average Price Cheapest | £6 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
43m Average total duration Fastest 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 51m Average total duration 1h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Doncaster to Retford is a coach with an average price of £4.
This is compared to other travel options from Doncaster to Retford:
A coach is £4 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Doncaster to Retford costing on average £8.
The fastest way to travel from Doncaster to Retford is by train with an average journey time of 13m.
Other travel options to Retford take longer:
Coach takes on average 1h 21m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Doncaster and Retford including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 22m sooner (13m by train vs 35m by car). Tickets start at around £8 compared to roughly £6 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.
Direct services run with London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Hull Trains.
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 Doncaster to Retford by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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
Sun
20 Sept
20 Sept
Mon
21 Sept
21 Sept
Tue
22 Sept
22 Sept
Wed
23 Sept
23 Sept
Thu
24 Sept
24 Sept
Journey information
Overview: Train from Doncaster to Retford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Doncaster to Retford run on average 6 times per day, taking around 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £8 but you can travel from only £4 by coach.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:32, the last at 23:34. The fastest train covers the 26 km distance in 15m.
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 £4
Distance 26 km |
Average train duration 13m |
Cheapest ticket price £8 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 5 |
Fastest train 15m |
First train 5:32 |
Last train 23:34 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 3 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 £4
Train companies: London North Eastern Railway, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Hull Trains from Doncaster to Retford trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Hull Trains trains will get you between Doncaster and Retford from £4. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
15m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£8
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
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 pets per passenger
Quiet zone
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) Duration
12m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) Price
£58
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) frequency
10 a day
Hull Trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Hull Trains Duration
12m
Cheapest Hull Trains Price
£11
Hull Trains frequency
6 a day
Complete guide to Retford
Things to do in Retford
Discover the best of Retford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Retford trip today.
- Recommended
The Hub Military Aviation Museum
A nearby aviation heritage museum with aircraft and military displays, worth the short trip for visitors interested in regional transport history.
Chesterfield Canal Visitor Centre
Volunteer-run heritage centre beside the canal with exhibits on waterway history, boats and the restoration of the Chesterfield Canal.
- Recommended
Kings Park
Retford’s principal green space with formal gardens, riverside walks, play areas and open lawns close to the town centre.
- Recommended
Chesterfield Canal Towpath
A pleasant waterside route for walking and cycling, with locks, wildlife and broad views that show Retford’s canal heritage.
- Recommended
Retford Town Centre
A compact central area around the square and church, good for strolling between heritage buildings, shops and public spaces.
Pork Pie
Traditional Nottinghamshire pork pie with hot-water crust pastry and seasoned pork filling, long associated with local markets and county baking traditions.
- Gluten-free
Stichelton Cheese
A firm local cheese from Nottinghamshire with a mild, milky flavour. It reflects the county’s dairy heritage and is commonly eaten with bread or pickles.
- Gluten-free
Stilton
Classic British blue cheese made in the wider Nottinghamshire area. Rich and crumbly, it is a staple on local cheeseboards and in pub lunches.
The Galley
Smart, modern restaurant in the town centre serving British and European dishes in a relaxed but polished setting.
Indian Nights
Well-known local Indian restaurant with a long-standing reputation for curries, tandoori dishes and attentive service.
The Boat Inn
Canalside pub and restaurant offering British favourites, grills and drinks in a relaxed waterside setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Retford is moderate for the UK, with fairly priced pubs, cafés and local transport, while accommodation is usually cheaper than in larger tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- 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 modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up for taxis. In cafés, tipping is optional.
FAQs: Doncaster to Retford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Doncaster to Retford 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 Retford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Doncaster to Retford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £8, while the average price tends to be around £8.
The train journey from Doncaster to Retford covers a distance of 26 km and takes approximately 15m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Doncaster to Retford is 26 km.
The first train from Doncaster to Retford leaves at 5:32.
The last train from Doncaster to Retford departs at 23:34.
Trains from Doncaster to Retford run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Doncaster to Retford.
Yes, there is a direct train between Doncaster and Retford. The service operates 5 times per day, provided by London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Hull Trains.
To get from Doncaster to Retford, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Doncaster to Retford.
The train station in Doncaster that goes to Retford is Doncaster station (DON), and it arrives at Retford station (RET).
The cheapest way to get from Doncaster to Retford is by coach, costing approximately £4.
Booking trains from Doncaster to Retford in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Doncaster to Retford offers views of the picturesque English countryside, with rolling fields and charming villages along the route.
Yes, a day trip from Doncaster to Retford is feasible. The journey takes 15m, covering a distance of 26 km. Trains run 3 times per day.
Typically, spending one to two days in Retford is sufficient to explore the main attractions and enjoy the local atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Doncaster to Retford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Doncaster and Retford
Most Doncaster to Retford trains use the Doncaster to Retford station pair. Use this guide to compare Doncaster and Retford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Doncaster
Arrival train stations in Retford
Which Doncaster station do trains to Retford leave from?
Trains from Doncaster to Retford leave from Doncaster. The station is from Doncaster city centre at Doncaster station, Station Court, Doncaster, South Yorkshire, DN1 1PE.
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.
Which Retford station do trains from Doncaster arrive at?
Trains from Doncaster to Retford arrive at Retford. Retford is 1 km from Retford city centre.
RetfordRetford station, Station Road, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 7DE
City-centre transport
Getting to Retford from Retford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail Replacement Coaches leave from the front of the station.
Retford train station facilities and services
Retford has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Retford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Retford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Retford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Retford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Retford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Advance booking is advisable, 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.
Most popular train connections from Doncaster
More options for your journey from Doncaster to Retford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Retford and Doncaster
Most popular train connections to Retford
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.
