Hull Trains
Hull Trains is an open-access operator running direct services from Hull and Beverley to London King's Cross, with Advance fares bookable up to 26 weeks ahead.
- Country
- United Kingdom
- Official website
- Official website
- Train tickets
- Direct
Hull Trains is an open-access operator: it runs outside the government rail franchise system, on the same East Coast tracks as LNER. Owned by FirstGroup, it runs up to 94 direct weekly services between Hull, Beverley and the Humber region and London King's Cross.
Route and network
Stops include Hull, Beverley, Cottingham, Brough, Selby, Doncaster, Grantham and Retford on the way to London King's Cross. Since Hull Trains runs alongside LNER on the same corridor rather than replacing it, comparing both operators' fares for the same journey is usually worth the extra minute.
The current Paragon fleet, built by Hitachi, has run since 2019 as part of a £60 million investment. It carries around 20% more seats than the trains it replaced, with dual diesel and electric traction.
Tickets and booking
Advance tickets are usually the cheapest way to travel and can be booked up to 26 weeks ahead. They're tied to a specific train, and changing one costs £10. Anytime tickets cost more but let you board any train that day. Off-Peak tickets sit between the two, though they exclude a handful of named early-morning and evening departures. There are no booking fees, and Railcards are accepted for a discount.
Onboard and bikes
Hull Trains offers free 4G WiFi and a First Class option on its Paragon trains, plus a Passenger Assist service for travellers who need extra help. Bike storage is limited. A space must be reserved in advance, free of charge, either online when booking or at a staffed ticket office. A folding bike with a wheel of 20 inches or less can travel as ordinary luggage instead, once folded. E-scooters are not permitted, and bikes cannot travel on replacement coach services when there is disruption.
Where to book
Train tickets
- Buy direct from Hull Trains
Hull Trains
Frequently asked questions
Where does Hull Trains run?
Hull Trains runs direct services from Hull, Beverley, Cottingham, Brough, Selby, Doncaster, Grantham and Retford to London King's Cross, up to 94 times a week.
Is Hull Trains the same company as LNER?
No. Hull Trains is a separate open-access operator, owned by FirstGroup, running on the same East Coast corridor as LNER rather than as part of its franchise.
How far ahead can I book Hull Trains tickets?
Advance tickets can be booked up to 26 weeks before travel and are usually the cheapest option, though they are tied to a specific train and cost £10 to change.
Can I take my bike on Hull Trains?
Yes, but bike spaces are limited and must be reserved free of charge in advance, either when booking online or at a staffed ticket office. Folding bikes under 20 inches can be carried as ordinary luggage instead.
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Official website