Lancaster to Cambridge train with Avanti West Coast

Thu 15 Oct
+ Add return
Northern Rail
Avanti West Coast
Transpennine Express
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Northern Rail
Avanti West Coast
Transpennine Express
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Lancaster to Cambridge

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 15 Oct

Cheapest price on 15 Oct

£108

Average ticket price on 15 Oct

£116

Fastest journey on 15 Oct

4 h 22 m

Average journey duration on 15 Oct

5 h 38 m

Trains on 15 Oct

4

Distance

286 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lancaster to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Lancaster to Cambridge will cost around £116 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £108.

Fast trains

To travel from Lancaster to Cambridge you need to make at least 2 changes.

  • Northern RailG89877 · G89910+London North Eastern RailwayG07971+Transpennine ExpressG15831
    5:517h08
    Lancaster station (LAN)
    12:59Cambridge South
    £1081One-way
    5 changes
  • Avanti West CoastW33927+ThameslinkW45490+TubeTube from London Euston to Finsbury Park
    5:134h22
    Lancaster station (LAN)
    9:35Cambridge South
    £1171One-way
    2 changes
  • Avanti West CoastW33939+TubeTube from London Euston to Finsbury Park+ThameslinkW45424+Northern RailG89877
    5:515h14
    Lancaster station (LAN)
    11:05Cambridge South
    £1171One-way
    3 changes
  • East Midlands RailwayC04344+Greater AngliaP66833+Northern RailG89877
    5:515h48
    Lancaster station (LAN)
    11:39Cambridge North (CMB)
    £1221One-way
    2 changes

Journey information

Overview: Train from Lancaster to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Lancaster to Cambridge run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £57 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 20:49. The fastest train covers the 286 km distance in 3h 24m.

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
286 km
Average train duration
3h 45m
Cheapest ticket price
£57
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
3h 24m
First train
4:54
Last train
20:49
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
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

Lancaster to Cambridge train times

The table below shows live departures for Lancaster to Cambridge trains for tomorrow, Thursday 15 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
Avanti West CoastW33927+TubeTube from London Euston to Finsbury Park+ThameslinkW454905:13 Lancaster station (LAN)
4h22
9:35 Cambridge South2 changes
Northern RailG89877+East Midlands RailwayC04344+Greater AngliaP668335:51 Lancaster station (LAN)
5h48
11:39 Cambridge North (CMB)2 changes
Northern RailG89877+Avanti West CoastW33939+TubeTube from London Euston to Finsbury Park+ThameslinkW454245:51 Lancaster station (LAN)
5h14
11:05 Cambridge South3 changes
Northern RailG89877 · G89910+London North Eastern RailwayG07971+Transpennine ExpressG158315:51 Lancaster station (LAN)
7h08
12:59 Cambridge South5 changes

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Lancaster to Cambridge trains with Omio?

Northern Rail as well as Avanti West Coast or Transpennine Express offer trains services from Lancaster to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lancaster to Cambridge.

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 Avanti West Coast or Transpennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Lancaster to Cambridge.
  • 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.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Northern Rail with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lancaster to Cambridge.

Why book with Omio over Trip, Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Transpennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Lancaster to Cambridge.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Lancaster to Cambridge.

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transpennine Express from Lancaster to Cambridge trainsAvanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transpennine Express trains will get you between Lancaster and Cambridge from £57. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
3h 24m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£98
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 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
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

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
4h 4m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£57
Northern Rail frequency
1 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

Transpennine Express

About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transpennine Express Duration
4h 32m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
£103
Transpennine Express frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Cambridge

Things to do in Cambridge

Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.

  • Must visit

The Fitzwilliam Museum

Major university museum with classical sculptures, paintings, antiquities, and decorative arts. Strong choice for a broad first visit.

  • Recommended

Kettle's Yard

Contemporary art gallery in a former chapel, showing changing exhibitions by modern and international artists near the city centre.

  • Recommended

Sedgwick Museum of Earth Sciences

Museum of Earth sciences with dinosaur skeletons, fossils, and minerals. Compact, family-friendly, and useful for a rainy day.

Pound sterling (£)

Cambridge is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels and dining are above average, but walking and buses help keep transport costs manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for fine dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip around 10% for good service. Taxis are often rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafés usually do not expect tips.

Best day trips from Cambridge by train

The most popular day trips by train from Cambridge are London, Ely, Norwich, Peterborough and Bury Saint Edmunds. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Cambridge on Omio.

A view of London

Day trip from Cambridge to London by train

Why visit London for the day?

London blends royal history with modern city life, known for its museums, theatre and global food scene. Along the Thames, grand landmarks sit beside diverse neighbourhoods shaped by finance, fashion and contemporary culture.

How to get from Cambridge to London by train?

There are 16 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 79 km distance in 46m.

A view of Ely

Day trip from Cambridge to Ely by train

Why visit Ely for the day?

Ely is a small Cambridgeshire cathedral city known for Ely Cathedral and its setting above the fens. The compact centre and riverside on the Great Ouse give it a calm historic character.

How to get from Cambridge to Ely by train?

There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 24 km distance in 11m.

A view of Norwich

Day trip from Cambridge to Norwich by train

Why visit Norwich for the day?

Norwich is known for its Norman cathedral, medieval lanes and strong independent character. Its historic market, literary links and mix of old churches and creative spaces give it a lively but relaxed feel.

How to get from Cambridge to Norwich by train?

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:40. The fastest train covers the 93 km distance in 1h 3m.

A view of Peterborough

Day trip from Cambridge to Peterborough by train

Why visit Peterborough for the day?

Peterborough is known for its magnificent Norman cathedral, Roman heritage and broad modern city centre. It balances historic character with a practical, multicultural feel, while Ferry Meadows and the nearby Fens bring welcome open space.

How to get from Cambridge to Peterborough by train?

There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 48 km distance in 43m.

A view of Bury Saint Edmunds

Day trip from Cambridge to Bury Saint Edmunds by train

Why visit Bury Saint Edmunds for the day?

Bury Saint Edmunds is a historic Suffolk market town known for its abbey ruins, cathedral and Georgian centre. It has a compact feel, with Abbey Gardens, independent shops and a long brewing heritage giving it character.

How to get from Cambridge to Bury Saint Edmunds by train?

There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:15, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 41 km distance in 37m.

FAQs: Lancaster to Cambridge train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lancaster to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The cost of a train ticket from Lancaster to Cambridge can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £57, while the average price tends to be around £100.
The train journey from Lancaster to Cambridge covers a distance of 286 km and takes approximately 3h 24m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Lancaster to Cambridge is 286 km.
The first train from Lancaster to Cambridge leaves at 4:54.
The last train from Lancaster to Cambridge departs at 20:49.
Trains from Lancaster to Cambridge run approximately 6 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Lancaster to Cambridge.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Lancaster to Cambridge.
There is no night train service from Lancaster to Cambridge.
The train station in Lancaster that goes to Cambridge is Lancaster station (LAN), and it arrives at Cambridge station (CBG).
Booking trains from Lancaster to Cambridge in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Lancaster to Cambridge offers varied scenery, beginning with the picturesque landscapes of the Lancashire countryside and Pennine hills, before transitioning into the flat, expansive fields of East Anglia as you approach Cambridge.
Yes, you can take the train from Lancaster to Cambridge.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Lancaster and Cambridge

Most Lancaster to Cambridge trains use the Lancaster to Cambridge South station pair, with some services arriving at Cambridge. Use this guide to compare Lancaster and Cambridge train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Lancaster
Arrival train stations in Cambridge

Which Lancaster station do trains to Cambridge leave from?

Trains from Lancaster to Cambridge leave from Lancaster. The station is 3 km from Lancaster city centre at Lancaster station, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 5NW.
LancasterLancaster station, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 5NWShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Lancaster from Lancaster city centre

Lancaster is 2 km from Lancaster city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainSouthwest Chief · 65h 2m · £833
Pennsylvanian · 17h 47m · £417
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 65h 11m · £731
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 75h 46m · £936
BusGreyhound US1210 · 69h 20m · £492

Lancaster train station facilities and services

Lancaster has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Lancaster.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Lancaster. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, 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 Lancaster: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Lancaster: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Lancaster: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform Lifts to All Platforms, accessible via taking the right hand entrance to the over bridge from the ticket office, 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.

More options for your journey from Lancaster to Cambridge

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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