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Trains to London

      Taking you into the nation's capital at 125mph!

      Getting to bustling London just got even better! LNER's faster and more frequent hourly trains now take around 4 hours and 11 minutes* from Edinburgh - even quicker from York and Newcastle. With more weekday trains, it’s never been easier to enjoy the buzz of the stunning capital and have the freedom to explore it all at your own pace.

      We’ve added an extra train every hour, 32 extra trains per weekday and 85,000 more seats per week, giving you more choice, more seats, and faster journeys to the capital. That’s more freedom to enjoy the landmark filled city your way, day or night.

      LNER trains arrive and depart at London's King's Cross Station, located to the north of the bustling West End. LNER trains run every twenty minutes from Leeds or York to London.

      Trains to Newcastle, York, and Edinburgh run twice an hour, and there are hundreds of other connections along the East Coast Mainline linking London to the rest of the UK.

      Our website offers cheap fares on LNER trains to London King's Cross - with no booking fees! We are also piloting a more flexible ticket from this station on selected routes, giving you more sway for your day.

      • Population

        8,961,989

      • Fact about London

        London is home to the world's smallest statue — located in Philpot Lane, EC3, it depicts two mice eating a piece of cheese

      These percentages were calculated using our Carbon Calculator.

      Things to do in London on a one to two day trip

      Tower of London

      How to get there from the station: take the Circle Line eastbound to Tower Hill then walk five minutes.

      Step into nearly 1,000 years of history at this iconic riverside fortress, founded in 1066 by William the Conqueror. Families can marvel at the dazzling Crown Jewels, meet the famous Yeoman Warders (Beefeaters) and discover medieval towers, ravens and armour displays for an unforgettable London adventure.

      Tower of London

      London Eye

      How to get there from the station: take the Northern Line southbound to Waterloo (15 minutes) then walk five minutes, Or take bus 59 direct to Westminster Bridge Road.

      Soar above the city on the iconic London Eye, one of the world’s tallest cantilevered observation wheels at 135 metres high. The gentle 30 minute rotation offers breathtaking 360 degree views of Big Ben, the Thames and beyond for a magical way for families to see London from above.

      London Eye

      Granary Square and Regent’s Canal fountains

      How to get there from the station: walk five minutes through London King's Cross station, and exit towards the canalside.

      Granary Square is a lively open space right by King’s Cross where families can run around, relax and splash in the 1,000+ interactive fountains for a joyful, free outdoor experience for all ages. It’s also perfect for photos and canal-side picnics.

      Granary Square

      London Canal Museum

      How to get there from the station: you can walk or take bus 390 to Goods Way - both options will take you about five minutes.

      Step into the fascinating history of London’s waterways at the London Canal Museum, where kids can learn about canal boats, locks, and even how ice was once transported into the city. There are occasional family-friendly boat trips available too.

      London Canal Museum

      Camley Street Natural Park

      How to get there from the station: walk approximately 10 minutes north along Camley Street and cross the canal via footbridges.

      Just a short stroll from the station, this urban nature reserve is a lovely escape for families to explore wildlife, pursue pond-dipping, watch birds, or simply enjoy a peaceful natural setting by Regent’s Canal.

      Charles Dickens Museum

      How to get there from the station: walk 15 to 20 minutes, or catch bus 46 from King’s Cross to Coley Street then walk approximately four minutes.

      Visit the former home of Charles Dickens and discover the author’s life, original manuscripts, and authentic Georgian rooms - a cultural but fun stop for older kids who love stories and history.

      Charles Dickens Museum

      Things to do outside of London's city centre

      • Hampton Court Palace

        How to get there from the station: take a train from London Waterloo to Hampton Court. Exit the station and turn left onto Hampton Court Way, then cross the small bridge over the River Mole and continue straight until you see the palace entrance directly ahead.

        Explore the grandeur of Henry VIII’s historic residence with its stunning gardens, famous maze, and Tudor kitchens. Families can enjoy riverside walks along the Thames and participate in interactive exhibits about royal life and palace history.

        Hampton Court Palace
      • Richmond Park

        How to get there from the station: take the District Line westbound to Richmond. Exit the station, turn right onto Kew Road, continue straight until you reach Richmond Gate, then enter the park and follow the signs toward Pen Ponds or Isabella Plantation for easy walking trails.

        Richmond Park offers a peaceful retreat with vast open spaces, wild deer herds, and beautiful woodlands. Families can cycle, walk, and enjoy picnics while observing wildlife for an excellent day out in nature near London.

        Richmond Park
      • Windsor Castle

        How to get there from the station: take a train from London Paddington to Windsor & Eton Central. Exit the station, turn left onto Thames Street, continue straight following the signs toward Windsor Castle - the castle entrance is on your right at the end of the street.

        Visit the official residence of the Queen, see the majestic State Apartments, St George’s Chapel, and the castle grounds. Families can enjoy a full day exploring the historic town of Windsor alongside the castle.

        Windsor Castle
      • Epping Forest

        How to get there from the station: take the Central Line eastbound to Loughton Station. Exit the station, turn right onto Smarts Lane, then follow the pedestrian signs into the forest at the entrance near Baldwins Hill. Once inside, paths are well marked for walking loops.

        Epping Forest is a sprawling ancient woodland north-east of London with walking trails, cycling paths, and picnic areas. Families can enjoy fresh air, spot deer and birds, and explore quiet forest glades away from the city bustle.

        Epping Forest
      • Box Hill

        How to get there from the station: take a train from London Waterloo to Dorking. Exit the station, turn left onto Station Road, then follow the signs for Box Hill & Westhumble via the public footpath up the hill. The main viewpoints are clearly signposted along the trail.

        Famous for its panoramic views over the Surrey Hills and the River Mole, Box Hill is ideal for family hikes, picnics, and spotting local wildlife. The scenic landscapes make it a perfect day trip from London for nature-loving families.

        Box Hill

      Things to do in London

      Think you've seen London? Handwritten Beatles lyrics, cat mummies from Ancient Egypt and the world's most whimsical department store.

      • Meet the spooky cat mummies at the British Museum

        Much is said about the British Museum's mummies of Ancient Egypt but perhaps less well-known are their feline companions.

        That's right, cat mummies. Cats ruled in Ancient Egypt, they were considered sacred.

        Cats owned by important people were often mummified, and the British Museum exhibit shows a cat that has been wrapped rather elaborately. You'll never look at your pet moggie the same way again.

        The British Museum
      • Browse Liberty, the department store in an eccentric country house

        Liberty is a department store with a difference. From the outside it looks like a country house from the Tudor period – all black and white wood panelling and leaded windows. There’s an off-kilter, slightly eccentric feel too. Its timbers come from navy ships, and its founder was inspired by Eastern Bazaars.

        Step inside and it’s rather magical. Small wood-panelled rooms tumble into one another – full of nooks and crannies and bursting with all manner of decadent products. Browse high-end fashion, homewares and beauty products from some of the best brands around.

        Liberty
      • See the world’s most famous bed at the V&A

        The Bed of Ware is an incredibly large bed that lives at the Victoria & Albert Museum.

        Curators call it ‘One of the V&A’s greatest treasures,’ and it was even mentioned by Shakespeare in Twelfth Night! So what’s so special about it? Well, it’s 3 metres wide for starters – with enough room for 4 couples (ahem).

        It became a bit of a thing to have slept in it, and visitors began to carve their names into its heavy oak frame – perhaps that’s where the phrase ‘another notch on the bedpost’ originates?

        The V&A
      • Sup a pint in a pub built by Sir Christopher Wren

        London is full of old pubs with magnificent histories.

        Take the Old Bell Tavern on Fleet Street – built by renowned architect Sir Christopher Wren to give people working on his St Bride’s Church designs somewhere to get a drink.

        Wren, who also designed St Paul’s Cathedral, was rebuilding the capital after the Great Fire of London had wiped much of it out in 1666. 

        By the 1700s Fleet Street was home to the nascent newspaper industry and the early printers were soon making the Bell Tavern their own

        Today, you'll still find a solid pint and an authentic atmosphere.

        The Old Bell Tavern

      London - a bite to eat

      With a world-class dining scene, London gives New York and Paris a run for its money. We love…

      • Dishoom

        Dishoom is the place for Bombay-style café food. Its game-changing Iranian street food is loved by reviewers and everyday folk alike. Inside, the authentic décor and friendly waiting staff make for an electric atmosphere. Queues can be long, but it’s more than worth it once you taste the spicy lamb chops. Find Dishoom in Shoreditch, Covent Garden and King’s Cross.

        Dishroom
      • Flesh & Buns

        Flesh & Buns is all about moreish steamed buns stuffed with lovely ingredients. This underground Japanese restaurant feels much more like a club – with retro design and an old-school rock soundtrack. The food is delish though. Choose from a selection of seasoned meat, fish or vegetable dishes, all served in their signature fluffy steamed rice bun. Find Flesh & Buns in Covent Garden.

        Flesh & Buns
      • 2for1 London guided food tour

        On this London food tour you'll take a historic food journey through London to experience Award Winning Fish & Chips, try the best African Chocolate outside of Africa and enter London’s legendary Beigal Shop visited by Prince William!

        2for1 London guided food tour

      London - a few drinks

      Whether it’s a cosy pint in a low-key boozer, mojitos in a swanky cocktail bar or a full-blown night on the tiles, you’ll find it in London. We love…

      • Shoreditch

        Shoreditch is the watering hole for London’s cool kids. Hipster types flock here for the variety – be it cocktails with a view at the Boundary Rooftop bar or craft beers at Brewdog. While live music lasts into the wee small hours at the Blues Kitchen.

        Brewdog in Shoreditch
      • Soho

        Soho and its clubs and bars were popular with mods in the Sixties. Nowadays the maze of vibrant, multicultural streets behind Oxford Street offers a quirky mix of traditional British pubs like Old Coffee House and trendy bars Opium and Milk & Honey.

        Opium cocktail bar
      • Clapham

        Just south of the river, Clapham has come into its own as the go-to destination for party-goers. With its hip hop and R&B soundtrack, The Clapham Grand offers an exciting weekend venue. And no trip would be complete without visiting the legendary Infernos nightclub, where DJs spin cheesy tunes ‘til the early hours.

        The Clapham Grand

      Free things to do in London

      • Tate Modern

        How to get there from the station: take the Northern Line to London Bridge then walk 10 minutes along the Thames.

        Set inside a former power station on the Thames, Tate Modern offers free entry to its vast permanent collection. Families can explore bold contemporary artworks, the dramatic Turbine Hall and enjoy riverside views - all without spending a penny.

        Tate Modern
      • Sky Garden

        How to get there from the station: take the Circle or Hammersmith & City Line to Monument, then walk five minutes.

        Enjoy spectacular panoramic views across London from this lush indoor garden at the top of 20 Fenchurch Street. Entry is free with advance booking, and families love spotting landmarks like Tower Bridge and St Paul’s from 160 metres above the city.

        Sky Garden
      • Greenwich Park

        How to get there from the station: Take the Northern Line to London Bridge, then Southeastern rail to Greenwich, and it's a 10 minutes walk to the park.

        One of London’s oldest Royal Parks, Greenwich Park offers sweeping views over the Thames, wide open spaces for picnics and play, and roaming deer near the Wilderness area. It’s a wonderful free day out combining nature, history and iconic skyline views.

        Greenwich Park
      • Changing the Guard

        How to get there from the station: take the Piccadilly Line to Green Park , then walk 10 minutes to Buckingham Palace.

        Experience classic British pageantry at Buckingham Palace as the King’s Guard hands over duty in a colourful ceremony with music and marching soldiers. It’s completely free to watch and a magical moment for children seeing London traditions come to life.

        Changing the Guard
      • Hyde Park

        How to get there from the station: take the Piccadilly Line to Hyde Park Corner and it's just a two minute walk from there.

        One of London’s largest Royal Parks, Hyde Park offers wide open green spaces, playgrounds, and the beautiful Serpentine lake. It’s perfect for a family stroll, bike ride or relaxed picnic after arriving in the capital by train.

        Hyde Park
      • Camden Market

        How to get there from the station: take the Northern Line northbound to Camden Town, then walk five minutes to the market.

        Camden Market is a vibrant maze of independent stalls, colourful street art and canal-side buzz. Entry is free, and families love browsing quirky shops, soaking up live atmosphere and exploring the famous Camden Lock area just north of King’s Cross.

        Camden Market

      London - a bit of culture

      From loads of live music and after-hours experiences, London has a rep as a city that never sleeps for a reason…

      • See a show in the West End

        From hit Broadway musicals to critically acclaimed playwrights, Shakespeare to fringe – theatre lovers are spoilt for choice in London. You’ll find most of these on the ‘theatre streets’ clustered around Covent Garden.

        West End theatre guide
      • Catch some live music at The O2 Academy Brixton

        It’s safe to say Brixton has seen its fair share of legends over the years. Its roster includes punk icons The Clash, 90s Britpoppers Blur and Amy Winehouse, to name a few... Today, it’s still just as popular with the hottest acts and up-and-coming talent alike.

        O2 Academy Brixton
      • Take a late-night stroll round the Natural History Museum

        Fancy walking with dinosaurs by night? The museum has regular late-night opening hours for grown-ups, and runs special after-hours events like sleepovers and pop-up bars. Some of these are ticketed, so it’s best to check before you visit.

        The Natural History Museum
      • Try something unique

        A comedy club at sea – or at river at least. The Boat Show at Tattershall Castle on the Thames promises an evening of up-and-coming comedy - times a week . Who you’ll see is a complete surprise but laughter is pretty much guaranteed. And it’s been known to have the occasional famous face drop by…

        Boat Show comedy club

      London Sporting Venues

      Wembley Stadium

      How to get there from the station: take the Metropolitan Line to Wembley Park (takes approximately 20 minutes), then walk 10 minutes.

      Home of English football and major cup finals, Wembley Stadium seats 90,000 and offers behind-the-scenes tours where families can explore the players’ tunnel, dressing rooms and pitchside areas. It’s an inspiring visit for sports fans of all ages.

      Wembley Stadium

      Lord's Cricket Ground

      How to get there from the station: take the Circle Line to Baker Street, then it's about a 15 minute walk.

      Known as the “Home of Cricket,” Lord’s has hosted matches since 1814. Families can enjoy guided tours exploring the historic Pavilion, Long Room and the famous Ashes Urn in the on-site museum for a wonderful introduction to Britain’s summer sport.

      Lord's Cricket Ground

      Emirates Stadium

      Home of Arsenal Football Club, this modern 60,000-seat stadium offers immersive tours including the dressing rooms, players’ tunnel and Arsenal Museum. It’s an exciting, family-friendly stop just minutes from King’s Cross.

      Emirates Stadium

      Getting the train to Emirates Stadium

      Twickenham Stadium

      How to get there from the station: take the Piccadilly Line to Leicester Square, change to the District Line to Richmond, then it's a 10 minute bus ride on the 281 to the stadium.

      The home of England Rugby, Twickenham Stadium seats over 82,000 and includes the World Rugby Museum. Tours take visitors pitch-side and into the royal box, offering families a thrilling look at international rugby history.

      Twickenham Stadium

      Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum

      How to get there from the station: take the Northern Line to South Wimbledon, then bus 493 for 10 minutes to arrive at the lawn tennis club.

      Located at the All England Club, this interactive museum celebrates The Championships and the history of tennis. Families can explore Centre Court (when available) and enjoy multimedia exhibits bringing the sport’s greatest moments to life.

      Wimbledon Lawn Tennis Museum

      Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

      How to get there from the station: take the Victoria Line to Highbury & Islington, change to the Overground to Stratford (15 minutes), then walk 10 minutes.

      Built for the London 2012 Olympic Games, this vast park is packed with sporting legacy venues including London Stadium and aquatic facilities. Families can explore playgrounds, cycling paths and even climb the ArcelorMittal Orbit viewing tower.

      Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park

      What's on

      • Nothing Beats Musical Routes

        National Rail has partnered with renowned British DJ and broadcaster, Jo Whiley, to ignite a passion for exploring the roots of British music through train travel. Embark on a journey with the Window Seater app with a variety of short audio guides narrating the vibrant tales of Britain's musical landscapes, both past and present.

        Nothing Beats Musical Routes
      • Nothing Beats Sporting Routes

        National Rail have teamed up with British sports presenter, Kirsty Gallacher to create a new audio series to inspire your next train trip to some of Britain’s fantastic sporting locations. The eight-episode series features exclusive interviews from British sporting heroes and brings to life the origins of Britain’s most popular sports. When it comes to sport, nothing beats being there.​

        Nothing Beats Sporting Routes​

      How to save on LNER train tickets

      • Cheap tickets

        We know you can't always plan ahead but, if you can, booking your travel in advance can save you a lot of money. In fact, booking at least 4 weeks ahead of your travel date can save you an average of up to 47%* on on-the-day train ticket prices!

        Book cheap train tickets
      • Join LNER Perks

        Did you know that if you join our loyalty scheme, you can save money on every trip you take with LNER? Yep, that's right. LNER Perks members get £5 credit free on their account to spend on travel as a thank you for signing up. AND all members earn 2% credit back on every single journey. Not bad, eh?

        Join LNER Perks now
      • Save 1/3 with a Railcard

        Looking for travel deals? Enjoy cheap train fares and save up to 1/3 on train ticket prices with a range of Railcards.

        From Two Together Railcards, Senior Railcards, and many more, there are Railcard discounts to be had for all!

        Railcards
      • Save 20% for groups of 3-9 

        Groups of 3-9 can save up to 20% on Standard and First Class Advance fares when booking and travelling together.

        Buy at the station, or book directly with LNER and look for the word "discounted" next to the fare.

        Group travel
      • Off-Peak travel

        Off-peak train tickets give you cheaper train travel during quieter weekday times.

        Weekends and bank holidays are always off-peak, and LNER also offers Fridays as off-peak for all our journeys.

        Off-Peak travel

      *Saving average based on all Standard Advance tickets bought on the LNER website and App at least four weeks before you travel vs buying any Standard ticket on the day you travel.

      Relax in LNER's First Class lounge at London King's Cross station

      LNER First Class ticket holders can make use of our London King's Cross station First Class lounge - including complimentary hot and cold drinks and light snacks, power points and USB charging facilities, and free Wi-Fi. 

      All LNER First Class passengers will also enjoy:

      • More legroom, larger tables, and reclining seats.

      • Free W-iFi and power at every seat.

      • Quieter coaches for a more relaxing ride.

      • Free food and drink.

      King's Cross First Class lounge

      What's the main LNER train station in London?

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      Book with confidence

      Book together, save 20%
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      Pick your own seats
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      £5 free with LNER Perks
      2% back with LNER Perks
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