Nottingham to Skegness Train

Nottingham to Skegness Train: Timetable, Prices & Travel Guide

Nottingham to Skegness Train

The Nottingham to Skegness train is one of the most popular routes to the Lincolnshire coast — especially during summer when day-trippers and families head to the seaside. Operated by East Midlands Railway (EMR), this direct service takes you right to the heart of Skegness, just a 10-minute walk from the beach.

Whether you’re planning a weekend getaway, a Butlin’s holiday, or a day trip for fish and chips by the sea, travelling to Skegness by train is convenient and stress-free.

 

🗺️ Route Overview

  • Operator: East Midlands Railway (EMR)

  • Route: Nottingham → Grantham → Sleaford → Boston → Wainfleet → Skegness

  • Journey time: Around 2 hours 25 minutes

  • Frequency: Typically every 1–2 hours, seven days a week

  • Direct route: ✅ Yes – no changes required

You’ll travel through some of Lincolnshire’s most scenic countryside, passing villages and farmland before arriving at the coast.

 

⏰ Nottingham to Skegness Train Times

Trains run from early morning to late evening, with the first services leaving Nottingham around 6:00 am and the last around 7:00 pm. Return trains from Skegness typically run until 8:00 pm.

To find the most accurate times, check the latest schedules on the East Midlands Railway website or apps like Trainline.

 

💷 Ticket Prices

Ticket costs depend on when you book and the time of travel. Here’s a general guide:

Ticket Type Typical Price (One Way) Notes
Advance From £10 Cheapest option when booked early
Off-Peak Around £18–£22 Valid outside rush hours
Anytime Around £30 Fully flexible ticket
Return (Off-Peak) £30–£35 Best for day trips

 

You can buy tickets at Nottingham Station, online via EMR, or on apps such as Trainline.

 

💡 How to Find Cheap Train Tickets

Want to save on your seaside trip? Try these tips:

  1. Book early – Tickets go on sale up to 12 weeks in advance.

  2. Travel off-peak – Avoid morning and late-afternoon rush hours.

  3. Use a Railcard – Save up to 1/3 on adult fares and 60% on kids’ tickets.

  4. Split tickets – Use sites like Trainline or Split My Fare for potential savings.

  5. Travel in groups – EMR offers GroupSave discounts for 3–9 adults.

🚉 Stations on the Route

You’ll pass through (and can board from) several stops on the Nottingham–Skegness line:

  • Nottingham

  • Netherfield

  • Bingham

  • Bottesford

  • Grantham

  • Heckington

  • Boston

  • Wainfleet

  • Skegness

 

🧭 Arriving in Skegness

  • Station: Skegness Railway Station (PE25 3QL)

  • Distance to seafront: 10–12 minutes on foot

  • Facilities nearby: Cafés, shops, taxis, and local buses

  • Attractions close by: Skegness Pier, Tower Gardens, Natureland Seal Sanctuary, and the main beach

You can easily walk straight from the station to most hotels, restaurants, and the seafront; there's plenty of things to do in Skegness which will keep you entertained during your trip!

 

👨👩👧👦 Family & Group Travel Tips

  • Kids under 5 travel free.

  • Family & Friends Railcard offers big savings.

  • Butlin’s guests can grab a quick 10-minute taxi from the station.

  • Trains can get busy on Fridays and Sundays — especially during school holidays.

 

🚗 Alternatives to the Train

If you’re comparing travel options:

  • By car: Around 2 hours via A52 (Nottingham → Skegness).

  • By coach: National Express runs limited seasonal services.

  • By bus: Not recommended for the full journey — train is faster and more comfortable.

  • Parking: There are plenty of car parks in Skegness whilst you're here and most things are in walking distance.

❓ FAQs

Is there a direct train from Nottingham to Skegness?
Yes — all EMR services on this route are direct.

How long does it take?
The journey takes around 2 hours 25 minutes on average.

Do trains run on Sundays?
Yes, but services may start slightly later and be busier during the summer.

Are there toilets and Wi-Fi on board?
Yes — most East Midlands Railway trains include both.

 

🌊 In Summary

The Nottingham to Skegness train is an easy, affordable, and scenic way to reach the coast. With direct services every day, low-cost tickets, and a journey time of around two and a half hours, it’s the perfect way to swap city life for sea air.

Pack your bags, grab your tickets, and let the train take you straight to the beach!

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