Trains from Nottingham to Luton Airport

Nottingham to Luton Airport train times and prices

Looking to travel from Nottingham to Luton Airport? Skip the stress of driving and enjoy a fast, comfortable journey by rail. With travel times from just 1 hour 50 minutes, the Nottingham to Luton Airport train is one of the easiest ways to get to your flight.

Train tickets from Nottingham to Luton Airport start at just £33.90 one-way when booked in advance. Services run frequently, and most journeys include a simple change at Leicester or Kettering before arriving at Luton Airport Parkway. Make sure to book your fare to Luton Airport (not just Parkway) for a seamless transfer to the terminal onboard the Luton DART in under four minutes.

Whether you're travelling for business or heading on holiday, this guide covers everything you need to know: from train times and ticket options to onboard features and station facilities.

Nottingham to Luton Airport: Route Map

Nottingham to Luton Airport route map

The Nottingham to Luton Airport Parkway route covers approximately 80 miles, with most services requiring one change en route. Once you arrive at Luton Airport Parkway, the Luton DART shuttle takes just four minutes to reach the terminal.

To simplify your journey, book your fare directly to Luton Airport - this combines your rail ticket with the DART transfer.

How to Get Cheap Train Tickets from Nottingham to Luton Airport

There are plenty of ways to save when booking your train from Nottingham to Luton Airport:

  • Advance Tickets: Book early - up to 12 weeks ahead - for the lowest prices. Advance tickets are limited, so the earlier you buy, the better your deal.

  • Off-Peak & Super Off-Peak: Travelling during quieter periods (mid-morning, afternoon, or late evening) lets you benefit from Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak discounts.

  • Anytime Tickets: Need full flexibility? Anytime tickets allow travel at any time of day but are generally more expensive.

  • Railcards for Extra Savings: Save up to 1/3 on most journeys with a Railcard. Family and Friends Railcards, 16-25 Railcards, and Senior Railcards are all valid on the Nottingham to London Luton Airport route.

Buying Your Train Ticket from Nottingham to Luton Airport

When searching for trains from Nottingham to Luton Airport Parkway, make sure to select “Luton Airport” as your destination. This ensures your ticket includes the DART transfer to the terminal.

You can buy tickets:

  • Online: Up to 12 weeks in advance

  • At Nottingham Station: Via machines or the ticket office

What to Expect Onboard Your Journey from Nottingham to Luton Airport

Your Nottingham to Luton Airport train offers comfort, convenience, and helpful features designed for air travellers.

Onboard Facilities:

  • Free WiFi: Stay connected with fast 4G WiFi (EMR_WIFI network).

  • Luggage Space: Store two large items and one smaller bag. Overhead racks and luggage areas are available.

  • Family-Friendly: Baby changing facilities in toilets, folded pushchairs welcome.

  • Bike Policy: Folding bikes allowed anytime; full-size bikes permitted off-peak in vestibule areas.

  • Accessibility: Step-free access, accessible toilets, and priority seating are available on most services.

Nottingham to Luton Airport Train Timetable

Trains from Nottingham to Luton Airport Parkway operate frequently throughout the day. Most services require one change and include the DART shuttle for easy terminal access.

Weekday Train Times:

  • First train: 05:14

  • Last train: 21:40

Weekend Train Times:

  • Saturday: First departure 05:26

  • Saturday: Last departure 20:50

  • Sunday: First departure 08:21

  • Sunday: Last departure: 21:09

The Luton DART shuttle operates 24/

Nottingham to Luton Airport FAQs

  • Train tickets from Nottingham to Luton Airport start from £33.90 one-way when booked in advance. Prices can vary depending on the time of travel, ticket type, and how early you book. For the best deals, book online and choose Off-Peak or Super Off-Peak tickets.

  • The fastest train from Nottingham to Luton Airport takes around 1 hour 50 minutes, including the Luton DART shuttle transfer from Luton Airport Parkway station to the airport terminal. Journey times may be slightly longer during peak hours or weekends.

  • There are no direct trains from Nottingham to Luton Airport. Most services require one easy change, typically at Leicester or Kettering, before continuing to Luton Airport Parkway.

  • You can catch up to 2 trains per hour from Nottingham to Luton Airport Parkway, depending on the time of day. Services are frequent during both weekdays and weekends, providing flexibility for early flights or late arrivals.

  • • First train: Around 05:14

    • Last train: Around 21:40

    (On weekdays)

    Please note that exact departure times may vary by day. The Luton DART shuttle to the terminal operates 24/7, ensuring smooth airport transfers even on early or late services.

  • Yes, when you book your fare from Nottingham to “Luton Airport” (not just Luton Airport Parkway), your train ticket includes the DART shuttle transfer from the station to the terminal, saving you time and hassle.

  • Luton Airport Parkway is the nearest railway station to the airport. From there, the Luton DART automated shuttle connects passengers directly to the terminal in under 4 minutes. Booking to Luton Airport includes both the train journey and the DART.

    • Free WiFi (connect via EMR_WIFI)

    • Accessible toilets

    • Bike storage in vestibules (off-peak)

    • Luggage racks for hand luggage and suitcases

    • Baby changing facilities in toilets

    • Priority seating and wheelchair spaces

    • Folding bikes are welcome on all services at any time.

    • Full-size bikes can be brought on board during off-peak hours, subject to space in designated vestibules. No bike reservations required, but space is limited.

  • Yes, when travelling from Nottingham to Luton Airport, you can bring:

    • Up to two dogs per passenger (on leads)

    • Small pets in carriers

    All travel free of charge, but pets must not occupy seats or cause a disturbance to other passengers.

  • The train from Nottingham to Luton Airport is typically faster, more comfortable, and more reliable than bus or coach services. While buses may be slightly cheaper, they often take over 2.5 hours, compared to 1 hour 50 minutes by train + DART.

  • We recommend booking 8-12 weeks in advance to get the best prices, especially during busy travel periods like holidays or summer weekends. Advance tickets tend to sell out closer to the departure date.

  • Both Nottingham Station and Luton Airport Parkway are equipped with:

    • Public toilets

    • Baby changing areas

    • Accessible facilities

    Luton Airport Parkway also has step-free access and lifts to all platforms.

  • Yes, Nottingham Station offers:

    • Step-free access to all platforms

    • Accessible ticket machines and counters

    • Assistance staff and Passenger Assist services

    You can request help in advance or speak to a staff member on arrival.

  • Absolutely. You can save up to 1/3 with the following:

    • 16–25 Railcard

    • Senior Railcard

    • Two Together Railcard

    • Family & Friends Railcard

    • Disabled Persons Railcard

    Railcards are valid on most Off-Peak and Advance fares for this route.

  • The rail distance from Nottingham to Luton Airport Parkway is approximately 80 miles, with a total journey time of around 1 hour 50 minutes, including the DART shuttle.

Reviews

  • The most pleasant experience. Trains on time, tickets checked, signage easy to find and follow. Great journey, most definitely will repeat.

    Natalie, April 2024

  • Train departed and arrived on time. Quickest and easiest way to get to Luton Airport from central London. Staff at St Pancras very professional.

    Mark, June 2024

  • First time using Luton airport and feared it would be a hassle to get to, but with the fast service from St. Pancras and the shuttle straight to the airport terminal it was just so easy.

    Sarah, July 2024

Station facilities

Get to know the facilities at Nottingham Station and Luton Airport Parkway before you travel. From car parks and taxi ranks to ticket machines and waiting rooms, both stations offer everything you need for a smooth journey. Accessibility features and live train updates are also available.

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