- Recommended
Bassetlaw Museum
A local museum in the town hall covering Retford’s history, civic life and nearby Pilgrim Fathers story through compact displays.
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Travel Information
Compare train for Edinburgh to Retford
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Retford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £176 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 23m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £176, while a train costs an average of £176.
Distance: 326 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£176 Average Price Cheapest | £62 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 23m Average total duration Fastest 2h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 57m 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 Edinburgh to Retford is a train with an average price of £176.
The fastest way to travel from Edinburgh to Retford is by train with an average journey time of 2h 53m.
Yes, you can take a train between Edinburgh and Retford.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 2h 4m sooner (2h 53m by train vs 4h 57m by car). Tickets start at around £176 compared to roughly £62 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 Edinburgh to Retford 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Retford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Edinburgh to Retford run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £144 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:37, the last at 20:34. The fastest train covers the 326 km distance in 2h 57m.
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 326 km |
Average train duration 2h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price £144 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 57m |
First train 5:37 |
Last train 20:34 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 4 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: London North Eastern Railway, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) from Edinburgh to Retford trainsLondon North Eastern Railway, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) trains will get you between Edinburgh and Retford from £144. 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
3h 5m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
£47
London North Eastern Railway frequency
6 a day
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
2h 57m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) Price
£144
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) frequency
12 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: Edinburgh to Retford train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh to Retford can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £144, while the average price tends to be around £176.
The train journey from Edinburgh to Retford covers a distance of 326 km and takes approximately 2h 57m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Edinburgh to Retford is 326 km.
The first train from Edinburgh to Retford leaves at 5:37.
The last train from Edinburgh to Retford departs at 20:34.
Trains from Edinburgh to Retford run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Edinburgh to Retford.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Retford.
To travel from Edinburgh to Retford, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Edinburgh to Retford.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Retford is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), and it arrives at Retford station (RET).
The cheapest way to get from Edinburgh to Retford is by train, costing approximately £144.
Booking trains from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh to Retford offers scenic views of the British countryside, including rolling hills, fields, and picturesque towns, particularly as it travels through parts of Northumberland and Yorkshire.
A day trip from Edinburgh to Retford is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 57m each way. However, there are 4 trains 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 Edinburgh to Retford.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Edinburgh and Retford
Most Edinburgh to Retford trains use the Edinburgh Waverley to Retford station pair. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Retford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Edinburgh
Arrival train stations in Retford
Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh Waverley from Edinburgh city centre
BusUk090 · 12m · £0.90 · every ~32 min
Edinburgh Waverley train station facilities and services
Edinburgh Waverley has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59, Sun: 07:00 - 23:59. Information desks are information booths are located on the concourse. .
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Waverley: Entrances are step free. Station is equipped with an elevator. Staffed with guide communicators for the deaf. Tactile warning strips are on the platform edges for the blind.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.
Which Retford station do trains from Edinburgh arrive at?
Trains from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Retford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Retford and Edinburgh
Most popular train connections to Retford
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