- Recommended
Deva Roman Experience
Interactive museum exploring Roman Chester with artefacts, reconstructions and family-friendly displays that bring Deva’s military past to life.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Retford to Chester
Showing times and prices for 14 Aug
Cheapest price
£43
Average price
£45
Fastest journey
2 h 42 m
Average duration
2 h 57 m
Trains per day
14
Distance
130 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Retford to Chester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Retford to Chester will cost around £45 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £43.
Fast trains
To travel from Retford to Chester you need to make at least 2 changes.
14:383h07Retford17:45Chester£431One-way2 changes- 7:192h42Retford10:01Chester£451One-way2 changes
- 7:593h02Retford11:01Chester£451One-way2 changes
- 9:003h01Retford12:01Chester£451One-way2 changes
- 9:593h01Retford13:00Chester£451One-way2 changes
- 7:192h42Retford10:01Chester£451One-way2 changes
- 9:003h01Retford12:01Chester£451One-way2 changes
- 9:593h01Retford13:00Chester£451One-way2 changes
- 19:013h01Retford22:02Chester£451One-way2 changes
- 7:593h02Retford11:01Chester£451One-way2 changes
Live departures
Retford to Chester train times
The table below shows live departures for Retford to Chester trains for today, Thursday 13 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 16:53 Retford | 3h09 | 20:02 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 17:59 Retford | 3h10 | 21:09 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 19:01 Retford | 3h01 | 22:02 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 19:59 Retford | 3h38 | 23:37 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 21:01 Retford | 3h40 | 0:41 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 22:01 Retford | 9h38 | 7:39 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 23:20 Retford | 7h30 | 6:50 Chester | 2 changes | |
| Friday 14 August | |||||
| 7:19 Retford | 2h42 | 10:01 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 7:59 Retford | 3h02 | 11:01 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 9:00 Retford | 3h01 | 12:01 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 9:59 Retford | 3h01 | 13:00 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 10:59 Retford | 3h02 | 14:01 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 11:59 Retford | 3h02 | 15:01 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 12:59 Retford | 3h02 | 16:01 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 13:59 Retford | 3h10 | 17:09 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 14:38 Retford | 3h07 | 17:45 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 14:59 Retford | 3h10 | 18:09 Chester | 2 changes | |
| 15:59 Retford | 3h10 | 19:09 Chester | 2 changes | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Retford to Chester 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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Why should you book Retford to Chester trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Northern Trains Limited offer trains services from Retford to Chester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Retford to Chester.
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 Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Retford to Chester.
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Retford to Chester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Retford to Chester run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £25 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 03:51, the last at 14:04. The fastest train covers the 130 km distance in 2h 42m.
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 130 km |
Average train duration 2h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price £25 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 2h 42m |
First train 3:51 |
Last train 14:04 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
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: Northern Rail, Northern Trains Limited from Retford to Chester trainsNorthern Rail, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Retford and Chester from £25. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Duration
3h 8m
Cheapest Price
£71
Northern Rail frequency
4 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
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest Price
£25
Northern Trains Limited frequency
16 a day
Complete guide to Chester
Things to do in Chester
Discover the best of Chester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chester trip today.
- Recommended
Cheshire Military Museum
Museum in a former mill on the River Dee, covering Chester’s social history, period rooms and local stories from Roman times onward.
- Recommended
Dewa Roman Experience
Museum inside Chester Castle tracing regional regiments through uniforms, medals and campaigns in a compact but informative setting.
- Must visit
Chester Rows
Chester’s two-level covered walkways lined with historic shopfronts, ideal for browsing architecture and experiencing the city’s character.
- Recommended
The Groves
Pleasant riverside promenade beside the Dee, popular for walks, boat views and access to bridges, green spaces and the old city centre.
- Recommended
Grosvenor Park
Victorian park near the river with broad lawns, mature trees, bandstand and a peaceful setting for a break from the busy city centre.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cheshire Cheese
A crumbly local cheese from Cheshire, often served on bread or in recipes. It is one of England’s oldest recorded cheeses and closely tied to the county.
- Vegetarian
Cheshire Fruit Loaf
A traditional fruit loaf linked with nearby Cheshire and the North West, made with dried fruit and spice, often sliced and buttered for tea.
Steak And Kidney Pudding
A historic English pudding of suet pastry filled with meat and onion. It is a hearty regional comfort dish long found in Cheshire pubs and homes.
Upstairs At The Grill
Elegant restaurant focused on modern British cooking and tasting menus. A refined choice for a special meal in central Chester.
Jaunty Goat Coffee
Long-established local favourite for hearty breakfasts, lunches and baked goods. Relaxed café atmosphere in the centre of Chester.
Opera Grill
Well-known riverside and city-centre restaurant serving modern British food with steaks, grills and cocktails in a stylish but relaxed setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are cheaper than London, but tourist areas can feel pricey. Buses are reasonable, while central stays cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or tip about 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated for table service.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- /u00a32.00
- Day pass
- £2.50
To the city centre
Chester Railway Station -> Chester Bus Interchange, Chester
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Park & Ride tickets can be bought from the driver with cash or contactless card, and are also available in the Stagecoach Bus app.
- Chester station has a RailLink bus from directly outside the station to the city centre. Park & Ride buses serve Chester Bus Interchange and Foregate Street.
FAQs: Retford to Chester train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Retford to Chester 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 Chester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Retford to Chester can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £25, while the average price tends to be around £44.
The train journey from Retford to Chester covers a distance of 130 km and takes approximately 2h 42m. Trains run 4 per day.
The train distance from Retford to Chester is 130 km.
The first train from Retford to Chester leaves at 3:51.
The last train from Retford to Chester departs at 14:04.
Trains from Retford to Chester run approximately 4 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Retford to Chester.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Retford to Chester.
To travel from Retford to Chester, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from Retford to Chester.
The train station in Retford that goes to Chester is Retford station (RET), and it arrives at Chester station (CTR).
The cheapest way to get from Retford to Chester is by train, costing approximately £25.
Booking trains from Retford to Chester in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Retford to Chester offers a variety of landscapes, including picturesque countryside views, charming villages, and stretches of open farmland, making the trip quite scenic for travellers.
A day trip from Retford to Chester is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 42m. However, there are 4 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 130 km.
In Chester, you can visit Chester Zoo, one of the UK's largest zoos, or explore the Grosvenor Museum for local history and art. Enjoy a walk or boat trip along the River Dee, or experience cultural offerings at Storyhouse. The Cheshire Military Museum provides insights into military history. Don't miss the stunning Chester Cathedral, the historical Chester Roman Amphitheatre, and the well-preserved Chester City Walls for panoramic views. The Eastgate Clock and The Rows offer iconic sights and unique shopping experiences.
A stay of two to three days in Chester is typically sufficient to explore its historic sites, such as Chester Cathedral, the Roman walls, and the Rows, while also enjoying local dining and shopping experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Retford to Chester.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Retford and Chester
Most Retford to Chester trains use the Retford to Chester station pair. Use this guide to compare Retford and Chester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Retford
Arrival train stations in Chester
Which Retford station do trains to Chester leave from?
Trains from Retford to Chester leave from Retford. The station is 1 km from Retford city centre at Retford station, Station Road, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 7DE.
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.
Which Chester station do trains from Retford arrive at?
Trains from Retford to Chester arrive at Chester. Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre.
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.
Most popular train connections from Retford
More options for your journey from Retford to Chester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chester and Retford
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