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Chester to Kilmarnock by train

First train

03:46

Last train

22:22

Departure station

Chester

Arrival station

Kilmarnock

Journey time

From 4h 18m

Distance

179 miles (288 km)

Frequency

24 trains per day

Changes

2 changes

Train operators

TransPennine Express, ScotRail, Avanti West Coast, Merseyrail, Transport for Wales

Taking the train from Chester to Kilmarnock in 4 hours 18 minutes

Thinking about taking the train from Chester to Kilmarnock? We've got you covered.

It usually takes around 6 hours 1 minute to travel the 179 miles (288 km) from Chester to Kilmarnock by train, although you can get there in as little as 4 hours 18 minutes on the fastest services. You'll normally find around 24 trains per day running on this route. You'll need to make 2 changes along the way as there aren't any direct services on this line. You're likely to be travelling with Avanti West Coast, ScotRail or Transport for Wales to Kilmarnock. As the main train operators on this route, all offer plenty of space for luggage and comfortable seating as standard.

Book train tickets from Chester to Kilmarnock in advance instead of buying them on the day and you'll snap up the cheapest fares. We'll always highlight the cheapest prices in our Journey Planner, for example when you travel at Off-Peak times or use a Railcard.

If you're feeling ready to book, start looking for cheap train tickets with us today. Keep reading for more information on the journey to Kilmarnock by train, or check our timetable above to view live train times.

Journey details

Want to know more about your journey from Chester to Kilmarnock? We've compiled some of the most frequently asked questions by our customers to help you plan your journey.

How long does the train from Chester to Kilmarnock take?

The average journey time by train between Chester and Kilmarnock is 6 hours and 1 minute, with around 24 trains per day. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner on this page to search for a specific travel date.

What's the fastest journey time between Chester and Kilmarnock by train?

The fastest journey time by train from Chester to Kilmarnock is 4 hours and 18 minutes.

Is there a direct train from Chester to Kilmarnock?

No, there are no direct train services from Chester to Kilmarnock. Travelling from Chester to Kilmarnock by train will require a minimum of 2 changes.

What time does the first train from Chester to Kilmarnock leave?

The first train from Chester to Kilmarnock leaves at 03:46. Times and services may vary during weekends and holidays.

What time does the last train from Chester to Kilmarnock leave?

The last train from Chester to Kilmarnock leaves at 22:22. Trains that depart in the early morning hours or very late evening may be sleeper services, time and services may also vary during weekends and holidays.

What's the distance between Chester and Kilmarnock by train?

Trains travelling from Chester to Kilmarnock cover a distance of around 179 miles (288 km) during the journey.

Looking for more information?

If you’re looking for the return train journey, check out trains from Kilmarnock to Chester.

Cheap train tickets from Chester to Kilmarnock

Book in advance

Look out for Advance tickets – they usually come out up to 12 weeks before the departure date and can be cheaper than buying on the day. If you’re here a tad early, sign up for our Advance ticket alert today to get notified when your tickets are released.

Consider a Season Ticket

If you catch this train more than 3 times per week, you could save money with a Season Ticket. With annual, monthly and weekly options available, find out if a season ticket for Chester to Kilmarnock is right for you.

Use your Railcard

National Railcards offer a 1/3 off eligible train tickets in the UK and can be a great investment if you travel a few times or more in a year. Find out how you can save with a National Railcard here.

Split your tickets

Download our app to find split tickets — courtesy of SplitSave, our handy feature which 'splits' your train tickets where possible to find you a better deal. Learn more about the clever tech behind split tickets, and how to spot SplitSave discounts in our app.

For more money-saving tips on UK and European train travel, read our cheap train tickets guide.

† Average savings on advance fares booked at least one week before day of travel vs Anytime fares purchased on day of travel. Subject to availability. Excludes coach.

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