Enjoy a fast, fuss-free connection between two of the North’s most exciting cities with a direct CrossCountry train from Newcastle to Leeds, arriving in Yorkshire’s largest city in around 90 minutes.
Sit back and relax aboard your Newcastle to Leeds train and enjoy sweeping views of farmland and wooded valleys, with the North York Moors on one side, the Yorkshire Dales on the other, and glimpses of Durham and York along the way.
CrossCountry runs one of Britain’s most far-reaching train networks, linking destinations from Cornwall’s Penzance to Aberdeen in Scotland. With Birmingham at its heart, it connects major cities like Manchester, Bristol, Newcastle, Edinburgh, and Leeds, bringing much of Britain together by rail.
Departing from Newcastle
Centrally located on Neville Street, Newcastle station is a major rail hub in the North East and is easily reached by the Tyne and Wear Metro as well as buses from across the city. The station also has convenient links to Newcastle Airport and the ferry terminal.
Managed by LNER, Newcastle station offers services to major UK cities including London, Edinburgh, Leeds, Carlisle and York. It is served by five major train operators, LNER, Northern, CrossCountry, TransPennine Express and Lumo.
Newcastle station features baby changing facilities, a First Class lounge and secure cycle storage. And with a wide range of shops and eateries, it’s the perfect start for both onward regional and long-distance travel.
Main stops
Winding through a scenic stretch of historic northern towns, your Newcastle to Leeds train will call at Chester-le-Street, Durham, Darlington and York.
Arriving at Leeds
Step off the train at Leeds station and straight into the heart of one of the North’s most dynamic cities. Located on New Station Street beside City Square and the historic Queens Hotel, Leeds Station is a major rail hub, offering fast and frequent services across the UK.
Operated by Network Rail, Leeds station offers LNER services between London King’s Cross and Aberdeen, CrossCountry trains to Birmingham, Edinburgh and Penzance, as well as regional links with TransPennine Express and Northern to York, Sheffield, Harrogate and more.
Arriving at Leeds station, it’s just a short walk to the city’s most iconic attractions. Browse the vibrant Kirkgate Market, admire the stained-glass splendour of the Victoria Quarter, or dive into culture at Leeds Art Gallery and the Royal Armouries Museum. Whether you’re after live music, historic sites, boutique shopping or buzzing nightlife, Leeds has something for every traveller.
CrossCountry train classes
- Standard Class: From bike racks to onboard catering, CrossCountry offers practical comforts like free Wi-Fi, accessible seating and generous luggage space. Whether you’re on a fast Voyager or a regional Turbostar, enjoy a smooth ride in spacious surroundings with helpful service along the way.
- First Class: Travel from Newcastle to Leeds in style with CrossCountry first class. Sink into a spacious seat with extra legroom, at-seat tables, and free snacks and non-alcoholic drinks on selected services.
CrossCountry train travel advice
Get ready for your Newcastle to Leeds trip with all the essentials at your fingertips – from luggage and bike policies to travelling with children and pets, or booking assisted travel support.
- Luggage: Space for baggage is limited on CrossCountry trains, so it’s best to travel light if possible. Dedicated storage is available for larger suitcases in Coaches D and J on Voyager services.
- Bicycles: Standard bikes and e-bikes are welcome aboard CrossCountry services with a free reservation. Folding bikes can be brought on without reserving in advance. E-scooters are not permitted on any service.
- Children: Under-fives can travel for free, while families with older children can benefit from a Family and Friends Railcard – adults get a third off standard fares while children aged 5-15 enjoy 60% off – perfect for family getaways.
- Pets: You can bring up to two pets onboard at no extra cost. Dogs must be kept on a lead or secured in a carrier, and pets are not permitted on seats or in restaurant cars.
- Passenger Assist: If you need extra help with boarding, getting around stations or reserving a wheelchair space, you can arrange assistance when booking your ticket via Passenger Assist. If not booked in advance, just speak to station staff on the day and they’ll do their best to help.
Hop on a direct TransPennine Express train from Newcastle to Leeds, and arrive in the vibrant Yorkshire town in just about 90 minutes. It’s a quick, convenient route linking two of Northern England’s most dynamic cities.
Relax onboard your Newcastle to Leeds train and enjoy views of rolling farmland and wooded valleys as you pass between the North York Moors and the Yorkshire Dales, with glimpses of the historic cities of Durham and York.
TransPennine Express delivers fast intercity services in the north of England and into Scotland, connecting major cities like Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, York, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow.
TransPennine Express train classes
- Standard Class: Settle into standard class with complimentary Wi-Fi on most routes, plug sockets at selected table seats, and a range of snacks and beverages available to purchase from the onboard restaurant.
- First Class: Upgrade to First Class on your Newcastle to Leeds train journey and enjoy reclining seats, extra legroom, free Wi-Fi and charging points at every seat. With complimentary snacks and drinks on many services, as well as weekend upgrades from as little as just £10, it’s an easy way to add a little extra comfort to your journey.
TransPennine Express train travel advice
Prepare for your Newcastle to Leeds train journey with everything you need to know ahead of travel. Find out more about luggage allowances, bike policies and travelling with children or pets, and how to arrange assisted travel.
- Luggage: On TransPennine Express services, up to three bags per person are welcome onboard for free. Bulkier luggage can be stowed in overhead racks or under your seat so that walkways and doors remain free from obstructions.
- Bicycles: If you’re bringing a bike on board, you can book a space for free up to 15 minutes before your train departs. You can transport folding bikes on any service without a reservation. E-scooters are not allowed.
- Children: Kids under 5 can travel free of charge, while children aged 5-15 are eligible for a 50% discount. Teens aged 16-17 can also travel half-price with a 16–17 Saver railcard.
- Pets: You can bring up to two small pets for free. Dogs should be kept on a lead and smaller animals should be kept in secure carriers. Pets should stay off the seats throughout the journey.
- Passenger Assist: If you’re an older traveller or need a little extra support, help is available with boarding, disembarking, carrying luggage, or navigating stations. You can arrange assistance through Passenger Assist when booking your ticket or by asking staff at the station.
*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.