London to Cambridge

By the Viamo editorial team · Editor Terje Moy · Last updated July 2026 · 4 min read

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Cambridge is one of the easiest day trips from London — under an hour by the fastest trains, served by two different rail routes and a handful of coach options. The city rewards an early start: arrive before the tourist crowds fill the Backs, hire a punt and you will wonder why you ever thought you needed to travel further for a proper escape.

The quickest way: train from King's Cross or Liverpool Street

Cambridge is served from two London termini, each using a different route.

Thameslink runs from London King's Cross (and also from Blackfriars, City Thameslink, Farringdon and St Pancras International on the same through-route) directly to Cambridge in about 50 minutes to 1 hour 10 minutes on the faster services. This is the most straightforward option for anyone in north, central or south London, since Thameslink threads through the heart of the city before heading north.

Greater Anglia operates from London Liverpool Street, taking about 1 hour to 1 hour 20 minutes via a different route through Audley End and Whittlesford Parkway (or via Ely on some services). Liverpool Street suits travellers coming from east London or the City.

Both operators run frequent services throughout the day. Advance tickets save money on either route; walk-up fares are much higher, as is typical for British rail. A railcard — particularly the 16–25 or Network Railcard — brings costs down significantly for regular users. Both routes arrive at Cambridge station, which is about a 25-minute walk or a short bus ride from the historic centre. For the main colleges and the market square, allow time for the final leg. For more on ticketing, see the Britain by train guide.

The cheapest way: the coach

National Express runs coaches from London Victoria Coach Station to Cambridge Parkside, taking roughly 1 hour 50 minutes to 2 hours 30 minutes depending on the service and traffic. Fares are typically the lowest on the route when booked ahead, though the time penalty over the train is significant.

A handful of other operators and FlixBus also serve the route. For budget travellers with flexibility on timing, Megabus and National Express are worth checking alongside the rail price before booking.

The fastest door-to-door (sometimes): driving

Cambridge is about 95 km from central London via the M11, and the drive takes roughly 1 hour to 1 hour 30 minutes in good conditions. As with Oxford, the destination is the problem: Cambridge has a congestion-charging zone covering the historic centre, and parking within it is limited and pricey. Several park-and-ride sites ring the city and are by far the most sensible option if you do drive. Driving makes most sense for groups, families with young children, or if you plan to head into the surrounding fens and villages — the drive past Grantchester and across to Ely is pleasant on a fine day.

The scenic slow option: stopping service via the Fen Line

The Greater Anglia route via Ely passes through some classic East Anglian scenery — flat, wide-skied, slightly otherworldly. If you extend the trip to take in Ely Cathedral (a detour of around 20 minutes each way by train), you get one of the finest examples of Romanesque architecture in England thrown in for the cost of a short hop. Ely station is directly on this line. For ideas on combining rail journeys into a slower itinerary, see the slow travel section.

Practical notes

• Punting on the River Cam is the quintessential Cambridge experience; chauffeur-punts and self-hire are available from several operators near the backs of the colleges.
• The city is very cycle-friendly — this is probably Britain's most dedicated cycling city, and short-term hire is easy to arrange.
• Most college chapels and courtyards charge a small entry fee during term time; check ahead if you want to enter specific buildings.
• The Fitzwilliam Museum is free and houses one of the best art collections outside London.

Which should you choose?

The train from King's Cross via Thameslink wins on speed for most London visitors, and on convenience for anyone in central or south London. The Greater Anglia service from Liverpool Street suits the east of the city and has a pleasant route in its own right. The coach is worth booking only if the fare difference is decisive and you are not in a hurry. Driving makes sense with a group or if you plan to explore beyond the city. Seat reservations are not required on any London–Cambridge service — you can travel on any train on your ticket.

Frequently asked questions

How long is the train journey from London to Cambridge?

The fastest Thameslink services from King's Cross take about 50 minutes. Most trains take between 1 hour and 1 hour 20 minutes. Greater Anglia services from Liverpool Street take a similar or slightly longer time.

Which London station do I use for Cambridge?

You have a choice: Thameslink services run from King's Cross (and other central London Thameslink stops), while Greater Anglia runs from Liverpool Street. Both arrive at Cambridge station.

Is there parking in Cambridge?

City-centre parking is very restricted and subject to a charging scheme. Park-and-ride sites around the edge of the city are the practical option if you drive.

Can I get to Cambridge by coach from London?

Yes. National Express and FlixBus serve the route from Victoria Coach Station, typically taking around 2 hours. Fares can be lower than rail, especially booked in advance.