- Must visit
Dove Cottage
Romantic-era writer's house museum in Grasmere with preserved rooms, manuscripts and guided access to Wordsworth's domestic world.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from York to Ambleside
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 21 Sept
Cheapest price on 21 Sept
£18
Average ticket price on 21 Sept
£18
Fastest journey on 21 Sept
3 h 30 m
Average journey duration on 21 Sept
3 h 30 m
Trains on 21 Sept
1
Distance
133 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from York to Ambleside is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from York to Ambleside will cost around £18 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £18.
Fast trains
On Mon 21 Sept, we found 1 trains from York to Ambleside, including 1 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 133 km distance in an average of 3 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 30 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 30 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
9:243h30York12:54Ambleside£181One-way0 changes
- 9:243h30York12:54Ambleside£181One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare train for York to Ambleside
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from York to Ambleside among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of £61 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 39m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £61, while a train costs an average of £61.
Distance: 133 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
£61 Average Price Cheapest | £27 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 39m Average total duration Fastest 3h 9m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from York to Ambleside is a train with an average price of £61.
The fastest way to travel from York to Ambleside is by train with an average journey time of 3h 9m.
Yes, you can take a train between York and Ambleside.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around £61 compared to roughly £27 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about £-33.63. The journey takes 3h 9m versus 2h 42m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
York to Ambleside train times
The table below shows live departures for York to Ambleside trains for today, Sunday 20 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G88966 · G89066 | On time 9:22 York station (YRK) | 4h31 | 13:53 Windermere station (WDM) | 1 change | |
| G88966 · G89066 | On time 9:22 York station (YRK) | 4h24 | 13:46 Staveley station (SVL) | 1 change | |
G88966 · G85383+ W33186 | On time 9:22 York station (YRK) | 3h36 | 12:58 Staveley station (SVL) | 2 changes | |
| G88970 · G89066+W33217 | On time 10:22 York station (YRK) | 3h24 | 13:46 Staveley station (SVL) | 2 changes | |
| G88980 · G85403+W33378 | On time 12:23 York station (YRK) | 3h19 | 15:42 Staveley station (SVL) | 2 changes | |
| G88986 · G89068 | On time 13:23 York station (YRK) | 3h22 | 16:45 Staveley station (SVL) | 1 change | |
| G88986 · G89068 | On time 13:23 York station (YRK) | 3h29 | 16:52 Windermere station (WDM) | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets York to Ambleside 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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21 Sept
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27 Sept
Why should you book York to Ambleside trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as Northern Rail offer trains services from York to Ambleside.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from York to Ambleside.
Why book with Omio vs Transpennine Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transpennine Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail to find the best option for your trip from York to Ambleside.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail to find the best option for your trip from York to Ambleside.
Journey information
Overview: Train from York to Ambleside
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from York to Ambleside run on average 14 times per day, taking around 3h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £23 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:42, the last at 19:05. The fastest train covers the 133 km distance in 2h 37m.
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 133 km |
Average train duration 3h 9m |
Cheapest ticket price £23 |
Trains per day 14 |
Fastest train 2h 37m |
First train 6:42 |
Last train 19:05 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Train companies: Transpennine Express, Northern Rail from York to Ambleside trainsTranspennine Express, Northern Rail trains will get you between York and Ambleside from £23. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
2h 41m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
£26
Transpennine Express frequency
4 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
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
2h 37m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
£23
Northern Rail frequency
15 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
Complete guide to Ambleside
Things to do in Ambleside
Discover the best of Ambleside — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ambleside trip today.
- Recommended
Armitt Library and Museum Centre
Local museum and gallery with Lakeland history, art, archaeology and Beatrix Potter material, suitable for a deeper understanding of the area.
- Recommended
Beatrix Potter Gallery
House museum linked to Beatrix Potter and William Heelis, showing period rooms and personal collections in nearby Hawkshead.
- Must visit
Stock Ghyll Force
Popular waterfall walk from the town centre through woodland and rocky scenery. It is short, accessible in parts and rewarding after rain.
- Must visit
Loughrigg Fell
Open hill above Ambleside with a clear path and wide views over Windermere, the town and surrounding fells. Popular at sunrise or sunset.
- Recommended
Borrans Park
Large lakeside green with jetties, picnic space and mountain views. A practical base for walking, boating and relaxing by Windermere.
Cumberland Sausage
A Cumberland sausage served in a spiral coil, seasoned with pepper and herbs. A Lake District and Cumbria classic often seen on local pub menus.
- Gluten-free
Hotpot
Slow-cooked lamb or mutton with onions and sliced potatoes. Long linked to Cumbrian farming life and traditional fellside home cooking.
Cumbrian Rum Nicky
A rich fruitcake made with dried fruit, spice and tea, traditionally baked in Cumbria for fairs, holidays and family gatherings.
The Old Stamp House
Smart yet welcoming dining room serving refined British cooking with seasonal produce in a historic Ambleside setting.
Fellinis
Established vegetarian restaurant with creative plant-based dishes and a relaxed, modern feel in the centre of Ambleside.
Lucy’s on a Plate
Popular old-town restaurant known for tapas-style small plates, local ingredients and a lively but cosy atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Ambleside is pricier than many UK small towns, with higher hotel rates in peak season and dining aimed at visitors, though buses and casual cafés help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food, bakery items, or a simple café meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining or tasting menus.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafés do not require tips, but leaving small change is appreciated.
FAQs: York to Ambleside train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from York to Ambleside 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 Ambleside, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from York to Ambleside can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £23, while the average price tends to be around £61.
The train journey from York to Ambleside covers a distance of 133 km and takes approximately 2h 37m. Trains run 14 per day.
The train distance from York to Ambleside is 133 km.
The first train from York to Ambleside leaves at 6:42.
The last train from York to Ambleside departs at 19:05.
Trains from York to Ambleside run approximately 14 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from York to Ambleside.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from York to Ambleside.
To travel from York to Ambleside, you can take a train.
There is no night train service from York to Ambleside.
The train station in York that goes to Ambleside is York station (YRK), and it arrives at Windermere station (WDM).
The cheapest way to get from York to Ambleside is by train, costing approximately £23.
Booking trains from York to Ambleside in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from York to Ambleside, which involves travelling through the picturesque Yorkshire Dales and the stunning Lake District, is indeed scenic, offering views of rolling hills, verdant valleys, and charming villages.
A day trip from York to Ambleside is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 37m. However, there are 16 trains available per day for this route.
To fully explore Ambleside, including its scenic walks, lake cruises, and local attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from York to Ambleside.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in York and Ambleside
Most York to Ambleside trains use the York to Windermere station pair. Use this guide to compare York and Ambleside train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in York
Arrival train stations in Ambleside
Which York station do trains to Ambleside leave from?
Trains from York to Ambleside leave from York. The station is 1 km from York city centre at York station, Station Road, York, North Yorkshire, YO24 1AB.
YorkYork station, Station Road, York, North Yorkshire, YO24 1AB+44 800 200 6060
City-centre transport
Getting to York from York city centre
BusY12, Y14, 15, X15 · 4m · £3 · every ~4 min
37 · 7m
Cs · 28m · £4 · every ~5 min
York train station facilities and services
York has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at York.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at York. ATMs are available at York.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at York.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at York: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at York: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at York: 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 taxis: No advance booking is required but it will reduce the waiting time for a wheelchair access Taxi, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible machines are available on the main concourse, 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 York to Ambleside
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Ambleside and York
Most popular train connections to Ambleside
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