Great Northern Trains – Complete Guide
Great Northern is a key train operator in the UK, running services between London and destinations across Hertfordshire, Cambridgeshire, and Bedfordshire. Its trains link busy commuter towns with central London, while also serving historic cities and regional hubs.
Whether it’s the fast connection from King’s Cross to Cambridge or the commuter-friendly services into Moorgate, Great Northern provides vital links for both business and leisure travelers.The network is known for its regular schedules, comfortable trains, and strong integration with other rail operators, giving passengers easy access to the wider rail network.
Great Northern Popular Routes
Great Northern runs a wide range of services that connect London with key towns and cities in the East of England:
- London King’s Cross to Cambridge: A popular route used by students, professionals, and tourists visiting the university city.
- Moorgate to Stevenage: A major commuter route offering convenient access to London’s business districts.
- London King’s Cross to Peterborough: Provides fast services between London and Cambridgeshire, often used by both commuters and long-distance travelers.
- London King’s Cross to King’s Lynn: A longer route linking Norfolk with London for business, leisure, and tourism.
- London King’s Cross to Ely: Connects the capital to Ely’s historic cathedral city and onward East Anglia services.
Great Northern Popular Stations Served
Great Northern serves many important stations across its network, providing links to both large cities and smaller towns. Key stations include:
- London King’s Cross: One of the busiest transport hubs in the country, with connections across the UK.
- Moorgate: A vital commuter station located in the City of London.
- Cambridge: Famous for its university and thriving science and technology industries.
- Peterborough: A major railway interchange with strong East Coast Main Line connections.
- Stevenage: A busy commuter town with quick access into London.
- King’s Lynn: A Norfolk town with strong business, tourism, and leisure links.
- Ely: A small but important cathedral city with regional travel connections.
Why Travel with Great Northern?
Traveling with Great Northern is all about reliability, convenience, and strong regional connectivity. Passengers benefit from frequent services, modern trains, and access to both central London and wider destinations. For commuters, the Moorgate services are designed for daily reliability, while leisure travelers enjoy fast and direct connections to cultural and historic cities like Cambridge and Ely.
The operator also works with national railcards and supports advance booking options, helping passengers save money on their journeys.
Frequently Asked Questions About Great Northern
Tickets can be purchased online, through the Great Northern app, at station ticket machines, or ticket offices.
Yes, most national railcards are accepted, giving passengers up to 1/3 off eligible fares.
Seat reservations are not usually required on Great Northern services, but some longer routes may allow them.
Refunds depend on ticket type. Unused refundable tickets can be returned, while delays may qualify under Delay Repay.
Yes, most trains and stations are step-free, and assistance can be booked in advance for added support.
Yes, contactless and Oyster are valid on many routes into London, particularly from Hertfordshire and Bedfordshire.
Advance tickets are usually available up to 12 weeks before travel, offering the best chance of savings.