The average train between Chester and Pontefract takes 3h 39m and the fastest train takes 2h 57m. There is a train service every few hours from Chester to Pontefract. The journey time may be longer on weekends and holidays; use the search form on this page to search for a specific travel date.
Trains run hourly between Chester and Pontefract. The earliest departure is at 5:52 AM in the morning, and the last departure from Chester is at 9:52 PM which arrives into Pontefract at 6:00 AM. All services require a transfer at Newton-le-Willows and take an average of 3h 39m. The schedules shown below are for the next available departures.


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Want to know about travelling from Chester to Pontefract? We have put together a list of the most frequently asked questions from our users such as: What is the cheapest mode of transport? What is the quickest option? How much do tickets usually cost? and many more.
No, there is no direct train from Chester to Pontefract. However, there are services departing from Chester station and arriving at Pontefract station via Newton-le-Willows. The journey, including transfers, takes approximately 3h 39m.
Chester to Pontefract train services, operated by Transport for Wales, depart from Chester station.
Chester to Pontefract train services, operated by Transport for Wales, arrive at Pontefract Tanshelf station.
Book your Chester to Pontefract train tickets online with Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited and TransPennine Express.
The distance between Chester and Pontefract is 118.5 km. The road distance is 161 km.
You can take a train from Chester to Pontefract Tanshelf via Newton-le-Willows and Leeds in around 3h 26m.