Best Price Promise

Best Price Promise

If you find trains for a cheaper price elsewhere, let us know and we'll refund the difference*

Book Cheaper Tickets

Book Cheaper Tickets

Save more with a variety of promo codes. Book on the TrainPal app with no booking fees.

Efficient Customer Service

Efficient Customer Service

24/7 fast customer service with prompt responses to your queries

Fast Change and Refund

Fast Change and Refund

Seamless rail travel with easy changes and refunds for peace of mind.

  1. Home
  2. UK Train Journey
  3. Cambridge to Stansted Airport trains

Cambridge to Stansted Airport train times

Travelling from Cambridge to Stansted Airport, the fastest train takes 27m with an average travel time of 36m. 33 trains are running daily, with the first departing at 07:52 and the last at 23:10. Stay updated with live train status, times, delays, and cancellations on TrainPal.

Mon

20 Oct

Tue

21 Oct

Wed

22 Oct

Thu

23 Oct

Fri

24 Oct

Sat

25 Oct

Sun

26 Oct

DepartsArrivesStatusDurationOperator

17:10

Cambridge

17:47

Stansted Airport
On time37mGreater Anglia
Find tickets

18:05

Cambridge

18:32

Stansted Airport
On time27mGreater Anglia
Find tickets

18:10

Cambridge

18:47

Stansted Airport
On time37mGreater Anglia
Find tickets

19:05

Cambridge

19:32

Stansted Airport
On time27mGreater Anglia
Find tickets

19:10

Cambridge

19:47

Stansted Airport
On time37mGreater Anglia
Find tickets
View More Trains

Cambridge to Stansted Airport Train journey information

Plan your journey from Cambridge to Stansted Airport with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.
First train
07:52
Last train
23:10
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
22 miles (35 km)
Journey time
27m
Price
From £3.40
Train operators

Greater Anglia: Cambridge to Stansted Airport trains

When it comes to easy and efficient travel between Cambridge and Stansted Airport, Greater Anglia has you covered. Operating up to 66 direct trains per day, this service runs from as early as 04:44 through to 22:50, with journey times from 27 minutes. Covering a modest 22 miles, it's a convenient route for early-morning fliers, late-night arrivals, or anyone commuting between Cambridgeshire and Essex. Prices start from just £3.40, making it affordable and efficient.

Along the way, you'll pass the majestic estate of Audley End set amid lush parkland, surrounded by rural farmland and quaint villages, and glimpse the historic market town of Bishop's Stortford.

Greater Anglia is a key rail operator in the East of England, running services from London Liverpool Street and Stratford to counties including Essex, Suffolk, Norfolk, Cambridgeshire, and Hertfordshire. It serves popular destinations like Norwich, Cambridge, Ipswich, Southend, and coastal towns such as Clacton-on-Sea. Its fleet includes high-speed intercity trains and reliable regional services, including the dedicated Stansted Express.

Departing from Cambridge

Cambridge railway station, located at the end of Station Road and just over a mile southeast of the historic city centre, is one of the region's busiest transport hubs. Handling over 10 million passengers annually, it's the busiest station in East England and among the busiest outside London

It's easily accessible via Stagecoach Citi bus routes 1, 3, and 7, with taxi services readily available and a taxi rank outside the main entrance. For those using multiple forms of transport, a PLUSBUS ticket offers discounted bus travel when combined with your train fare.

From Cambridge Station, passengers can reach London Liverpool Street, London Kings Cross, and St Pancras International, as well as other cities including Birmingham and Norwich. Greater Anglia manages the station and provides regular services to both Stansted Airport and destinations throughout East Anglia. Great Northern and CrossCountry also serve the station, making it a key interchange for local and long-distance journeys.

Main stops

Greater Anglia operates direct train services from Cambridge to Stansted Airport, with Audley End and Bishop's Stortford being the main intermediate stops. The full list of stops on this route is: Cambridge – Audley End – Elsenham – Bishop's Stortford – Stansted Mountfitchet – Stansted Airport.

Arriving at Stansted Airport

Stansted Airport railway station is directly beneath the main terminal of London Stansted Airport, in Essex, making it an effortless transition from train to plane. Opened in 1991 alongside the airport's terminal expansion, the station sits on a dedicated West Anglia Main Line branch, with the Stansted Express offering regular connections to London Liverpool Street. It sees more than 9 million annual passengers, making it the busiest station in Essex and one of the top 20 busiest outside London.

The main rail service from Stansted is the Stansted Express, connecting to London Liverpool Street, Stratford, and Tottenham Hale for Underground and Overground connections. Trains run every 15 minutes, seven days a week, making it one of the most dependable airport connections in the country.

The area surrounding Stansted isn't all aviation. Travellers with extra time can explore historic sites like Mountfitchet Castle or Audley End House, enjoy nature at Hatfield Forest, or visit the unique Henry Moore Studios & Gardens. For shopping or a relaxed meal, the nearby market towns of Bishop's Stortford and Saffron Walden are well worth a stop.

Greater Anglia train classes

Greater Anglia trains from Cambridge to Stansted Airport use modern rolling stock with Standard Class only, offering regional travellers a clean and comfortable experience. These services do not feature First Class, as they are part of the Stansted Express and regional fleet.

Standard Class on all services includes comfortable 2+2 or 3+2 seating, power sockets, and luggage racks. Priority seating is available for passengers with mobility needs across all trains.

On other Greater Anglia routes, such as those to Norwich, passengers can enjoy First Class travel with 2+1 seating, extra legroom, complimentary refreshments, and access to First Class lounges.

Greater Anglia train travel advice

Here are a few helpful travel tips if you're using Greater Anglia:

  • Luggage: You may bring two large pieces of luggage and one smaller hand luggage item for free. Use racks near doors for large items and overhead storage for smaller bags.
  • Bicycles: Bicycles can be taken on board for free, but restrictions apply at peak times, especially at major stations. Book in advance for longer routes.
  • Children: Under 5s travel free; children aged 5 to 15 get a 50% discount. Family Travelcards and the £2 Hare Fare offer good value for groups.
  • Pets: You can bring up to two small pets free of charge. They must be on a leash or in a carrier and not occupy a seat.
  • Passenger Assist: Request help at least two hours before travel via phone, email, or the Passenger Assistance app. Staff can help with boarding, luggage, and accessibility.

CrossCountry: Cambridge to Stansted Airport Trains

Direct and dependable, CrossCountry's route from Cambridge to Stansted Airport offers another excellent option for travellers. With 19 direct trains per day, it's a less frequent but still convenient service, and the fastest journeys take 27 minutes.

This route passes through the East of England, offering views of open countryside and the elegant station architecture of Audley End and Stansted Mountfitchet, which is ideal for those exploring the region.

CrossCountry is a major UK train operator, connecting cities across Britain with Birmingham New Street at its centre. Its services run from Scotland and the North East to Cornwall, South Wales, and the South Coast, including airport stops like Birmingham and Stansted. Trains are primarily formed of Voyager units for long-haul trips and Turbostar trains for regional services like Cambridge to Stansted.

CrossCountry train classes

The CrossCountry service between Cambridge and Stansted Airport is operated by Turbostar trains, which only feature Standard Class seating. These regional trains are clean and functional, designed for short- to medium-distance travel without First Class accommodations.

Standard Class, found on all CrossCountry trains, includes 2+2 seating, power sockets, overhead racks, and luggage space under seats or near doors. The seating layout is suited to solo travellers and small groups.

Elsewhere on the CrossCountry network, First Class is offered on Voyager and Super Voyager trains. Benefits include larger, reclining seats, extra legroom, complimentary Wi-Fi, snacks, and drinks. These trains are more common on long-distance services linking Bristol, Newcastle, Leeds, and Edinburgh.

CrossCountry train travel advice

Here are some valuable tips for travelling on CrossCountry trains:

  • Luggage: Passengers may bring one personal item, one medium-sized bag, and one large suitcase. Store bags in racks or overhead to avoid blocking aisles.
  • Bicycles: Bikes are allowed free of charge but must be booked in advance. Trains have two reservable spaces and one additional unreserved space on Voyager trains.
  • Children: Under 5s travel free without a reserved seat; children aged 5 to 15 receive discounted fares. Family & Friends Railcards offer additional savings for group travel.
  • Pets: Two small pets per person may travel for free, as long as they are on a lead or in a secure carrier. Pets must not occupy seats or disturb other passengers.
  • Passenger Assist: Assistance can be booked online, via phone (0344 811 0125), or via the Passenger Assistance app. Book at least 24 to 48 hours in advance for guaranteed support.

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Cambridge to Stansted Airport train travel guide

Travelling by train from Cambridge to Stansted Airport is efficient and offers a scenic and comfortable experience. With frequent departures from Cambridge, you can reach Stansted Airport in just 27m, making it one of the fastest and most convenient ways to travel between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

1. Where can I buy the cheapest train tickets from Cambridge to Stansted Airport?

Want to spend less on the journey from Cambridge to Stansted Airport? TrainPal can help: choose a Railcard, Season Tickets, or split tickets. Book in advance, travel off-peak, and use discount codes for extra savings. Explore more options for cheap train tickets in the UK.

2. What is the best way to travel from Cambridge to Stansted Airport by train?

Use TrainPal Train Journey Planner to enter your departure and destination points for routes, schedules, and prices. Compare Cambridge to Stansted Airport train prices for the best deals and book in advance for discounts. The TrainPal app offers real-time updates and ticket booking options. Explore the TrainPal app and start planning your journey!

3. What is the fastest train from Cambridge to Stansted Airport?

The fastest train journey time from Cambridge to Stansted Airport is 27m . Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.

4. Are there direct trains from Cambridge to Stansted Airport?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Cambridge to Stansted Airport. Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

1. Are Cambridge to Stansted Airport trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

While Cambridge to Stansted Airport trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Cambridge to Stansted Airport is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.

2. How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.

3. Do Cambridge to Stansted Airport trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the route from Cambridge to Stansted Airport are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company

4. How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

1. Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes, in the UK, students and seniors have access to various discount options. The 16-25 Railcard allows students to save up to 1/3 on most train tickets. Similarly, those aged 60 and above can use the Senior Railcard to enjoy comparable savings. Both types of Railcards are available for purchase online or at train stations and are valid for one year, making them a valuable option for frequent travellers.

2. Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.

3. How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Use TrainPal for quick access to live updates and notifications. If your phone allows messages from us, you'll receive instant notifications about train cancellations directly on your screen.

Save 1/3 with Railcards from Cambridge to Stansted Airport

 16-25 Railcard 16-25 Railcard

£6.35

With 16-25 Railcard

£9.52

Without
Buy 16-25 Railcard

 26-30 Railcard 26-30 Railcard

£6.35

With 26-30 Railcard

£9.52

Without
Buy 26-30 Railcard

 Family & Friends Railcard Family & Friends Railcard

£6.35

With Family & Friends Railcard

£9.52

Without
Buy Family & Friends Railcard

 Two Together Railcard Two Together Railcard

£6.35

With Two Together Railcard

£9.52

Without
Buy Two Together Railcard

 Senior Railcard Senior Railcard

£6.35

With Senior Railcard

£9.52

Without
Buy Senior Railcard
Railcards offer discounted train tickets, with various types based on age and number of travellers. Enjoy up to 1/3 off for a cheaper journey. The actual price will vary based on factors such as the train service, time, and ticket availability.

How to buy cheap Cambridge to Stansted Airport train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.
󰄶

Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.

󰄽

* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.

* Save an average of 73% by combining Advance Ticket savings of 73% with an additional 30% through split tickets. These savings apply to Advance fares booked at least one week before travel, excluding Anytime fares purchased on the day of travel. Availability may vary by route and may not be combined with other offers.