- Recommended
Thomas Paine National Research Centre
Museum dedicated to Thomas Paine, with exhibits on his life, political ideas and the town he once lived in.
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.
Trains from Ely to Thetford run on average 8 times per day, taking around 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £5 if you book in advance.
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:00, the last at 23:14. The fastest train covers the 33 km distance in 20m.
Distance 33 km |
Average train duration 22m |
Cheapest ticket price £5 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 8 |
Fastest train 20m |
First train 6:00 |
Last train 23:14 |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
Discover the best of Thetford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Thetford trip today.
Museum dedicated to Thomas Paine, with exhibits on his life, political ideas and the town he once lived in.
Town museum in a former court building, covering local archaeology, wildlife, industry and daily life across centuries.
Volunteer-run military museum exploring the regiment’s history through uniforms, medals and stories linked to Norfolk service.
Broad heathland and forest landscape near Thetford, popular for walking, cycling and experiencing the distinctive Breckland scenery.
Riverside green space ideal for gentle walks, wildlife spotting and views of nearby historic buildings in the heart of town.
Central public garden with lawns, seating and a war memorial, offering a peaceful stop close to shops and historic streets.
A Norfolk staple of cured ham, traditionally sliced thick and served cold. It reflects the county’s long pig-rearing and curing heritage.
Free-range turkey reared in Norfolk, commonly roasted for Sunday lunch or festive meals. The county is strongly associated with British turkey farming.
A rustic game dish using rabbit, often slow-cooked in pie or stew. It reflects Breckland’s historic heathland hunting and country cooking traditions.
Popular Indian restaurant and takeaway known for reliable curries and a casual atmosphere, well established with local diners in Thetford.
Casual steakhouse and grill serving burgers, steaks and hearty mains. A familiar choice for relaxed group meals in the town centre.
Traditional riverside pub in Thetford serving British classics, roasts and drinks in a relaxed historic setting near the Little Ouse.
Thetford is generally cheaper than larger UK tourist cities, with lower dining and lodging costs and limited public transport spending for most visitors.
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ely to Thetford 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 Thetford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Ely to Thetford trains use the Ely to Thetford station pair. Use this guide to compare Ely and Thetford train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Ely has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Ely.
Wi-Fi is available at Ely.
Ticket office support is available at Ely. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Ely: Parking, WC.
Available at Ely: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Ely: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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: No.
Thetford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Thetford.
Wi-Fi is available at Thetford.
Ticket office support is available at Thetford.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Thetford: Parking, WC.
Available at Thetford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Thetford: Staff help available: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: On platform 2, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
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