Hull Trains
Hull Trains is an open-access intercity operator running Hitachi Class 802/3 Paragon bi-mode trains from London King's Cross to Hull in around 2h 30m — the only direct rail link between London and East Yorkshire.
About Hull Trains
Owned by FirstGroup (the same parent as Lumo, GWR and SWR), Hull Trains has run open-access services since 2000 and operates entirely outside the franchise system.
The five Class 802/3 Paragon units — branded 'Paragon' after Hull's terminus — are bi-mode (25 kV electric on the ECML, then diesel on the unwired Selby–Hull section).
Hull Trains stops at Stevenage, Grantham, Retford, Doncaster, Selby, Howden, Brough and Hull (with some calls at Beverley). Single class plus 'First Class Plus' on certain services.
Key Hull Trains routes
- King's Cross → Hull Paragon~2h 30m, up to 7 daily Mon–Sat, fewer Sundays
- King's Cross → Doncaster~1h 30m on Hull Trains Paragon services
- King's Cross → BroughDirect to East Riding of Yorkshire
Major destinations
- Hull
- Brough
- Selby
- Howden
- Doncaster
- Retford
- Grantham
- Stevenage
FAQs about Hull Trains
How long is the train from London to Hull?
Hull Trains runs King's Cross to Hull Paragon in around 2 hours 30 minutes direct, with up to 7 daily services Mon–Sat. LNER and connecting services via Doncaster take longer.
Are Hull Trains and LNER the same?
No. Hull Trains is an open-access operator owned by FirstGroup; LNER is the state-owned franchise. Hull Trains is the only operator with direct London ↔ Hull services.
What is a Class 802/3 Paragon?
The Hitachi AT300 bi-mode — same family as LNER Azuma and GWR IETs. Hull Trains' five-car units run on overhead electric down the East Coast Main Line and switch to diesel beyond Temple Hirst Junction to Hull.