Can You Get to Alton Towers by Train? A Complete Travel Guide

Alton Towers is one of the UK’s most famous theme parks, drawing millions of visitors each year for its thrilling roller coasters, immersive attractions, and family-friendly entertainment. But if you’re planning a trip, you may be wondering: Can you get to Alton Towers by train? The short answer is yes—but it requires a little extra planning.

In this guide, we’ll break down the best ways to reach Alton Towers by train, the nearest stations, and how to complete your journey to the park.

Nearest Train Stations to Alton Towers

While Alton Towers itself does not have a dedicated train station, there are several nearby stations that can get you close to the park. The most convenient train stations for Alton Towers visitors are:

1. Uttoxeter Train Station

• Distance to Alton Towers: ~10 miles

• Best for: Visitors traveling from Derby, Stoke-on-Trent, and Nottingham

• How to get to Alton Towers from Uttoxeter:

• Take a taxi (about 20-25 minutes)

• Use local bus services (seasonal, check in advance)

2. Stoke-on-Trent Train Station

• Distance to Alton Towers: ~15 miles

• Best for: Travelers coming from Manchester, Birmingham, and further north

• How to get to Alton Towers from Stoke-on-Trent:

• Take a taxi (about 30-40 minutes)

• Take a bus from Stoke-on-Trent to Uttoxeter, then a taxi to Alton Towers

3. Derby Train Station

• Distance to Alton Towers: ~25 miles

• Best for: Visitors from London and the East Midlands

• How to get to Alton Towers from Derby:

• Take a train to Uttoxeter, then a taxi or bus to Alton Towers

How to Get from the Train Station to Alton Towers

Once you arrive at your chosen train station, you’ll need to complete your journey to Alton Towers. Here are your best options:

1. By Taxi

• Taxis are the fastest and most convenient option, especially if traveling in a group.

• Expect to pay around £25-£40 for a one-way journey, depending on the station.

• Pre-booking a taxi is recommended, especially during peak season.

2. By Bus (Limited Availability)

• Some bus services run between Uttoxeter and Alton Towers during peak season.

• The X41 and 32A bus routes have been known to serve the area, but schedules vary.

• Check local timetables before traveling.

3. By Shuttle Services (Seasonal)

• Alton Towers has occasionally offered shuttle services from major train stations.

• Availability and schedules change yearly, so check the official Alton Towers website before planning your trip.

Best Train Routes to Alton Towers

Your train journey will depend on where you’re traveling from. Here are some common routes:

From London

• Take a train from London Euston to Stoke-on-Trent (~1 hour 30 minutes).

• From Stoke, take a taxi (~30-40 minutes) or a connecting bus.

From Manchester

• Take a train from Manchester Piccadilly to Stoke-on-Trent (~40 minutes).

• Take a taxi or a bus to Alton Towers.

From Birmingham

• Take a train from Birmingham New Street to Stoke-on-Trent (~50 minutes).

• Take a taxi or connecting bus to Alton Towers.

From Nottingham

• Take a train from Nottingham to Uttoxeter (~45 minutes, with a change at Derby).

• From Uttoxeter, take a taxi or bus to Alton Towers.

Tips for Traveling to Alton Towers by Train

✔ Book Your Train Tickets in Advance – This will help you get the best prices, especially for longer journeys. Websites like National Rail or Trainline are useful for checking schedules.

✔ Check Local Bus and Taxi Availability – If you’re relying on public transport after arriving at the train station, research the latest schedules.

✔ Consider a Car Rental – If you’re traveling with family or a group, renting a car from a nearby city might be a more convenient option.

✔ Allow Extra Time – Trains, buses, and taxis can have delays, especially on weekends or during peak season.

Final Verdict: Can You Get to Alton Towers by Train?

Yes! While there isn’t a train station directly at Alton Towers, you can get there by taking a train to Uttoxeter, Stoke-on-Trent, or Derby, then completing your journey by taxi, bus, or shuttle. With a little planning, getting to Alton Towers by train is a convenient and stress-free option for a fun day at the park!