Is there a direct train?

No, you must change at Cambridge or London.

How long is the drive?

Approximately 90 minutes under normal traffic conditions.

Is St Albans expensive?

It is comparable to other commuter towns in Hertfordshire.

Can I use contactless?

Yes, contactless is accepted on all rail routes.

What is the best road?

The A10 to M11 is the most reliable route.

Ely

St Albans

Train Driving

Ely to St Albans

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Ely to St Albans covers approximately 65 miles through the heart of East Anglia. Driving via the A10 and M11 provides the most direct road route, typically taking 90 minutes depending on traffic near the M25. Rail travel requires a change at Cambridge or London King's Cross, taking roughly 2 hours. St Albans is famous for its Roman history and the historic Abbey. You will find the route passes through scenic Cambridgeshire countryside before hitting the busier Hertfordshire motorway network.

Total Distance: Driving distance 105 km, straight-line air distance 85 km.

Fastest Way

Driving takes 90 minutes, which is faster than the 2-hour rail journey.

Cheapest Way

Driving is the cheapest for groups, costing roughly 25 GBP in fuel.

Compare Ely to St Albans Routes

	Train Connecting	Driving Direct
Duration	2 hours	1 hour 30 mins
Avg Price	35-50 GBP	20-30 GBP in fuel
Operator	Greater Anglia and Thameslink	N/A
Route	Ely to Cambridge, then change for St Albans City.	A10 to A505, then M11 and M25.
Tip	Book an Advance ticket to secure the lowest fare.	Avoid the M25 during rush hour to save significant time.

Travel Tips

Parking
Use the Drovers Way car park for central access.
Rail Cards
Use a Network Railcard to save one-third on off-peak fares.
Traffic
The M25 junction 21A can be congested; check live traffic updates.
Walking
St Albans is very walkable; wear comfortable shoes for the hilly streets.
Booking
Always book train tickets via the official operator app to avoid booking fees.

Safety Tips

Road Safety
Be cautious on the A10, which has several roundabouts and junctions.
Station Safety
Keep your belongings secure at busy interchanges like Cambridge.
Night Travel
Stick to well-lit main streets when walking at night in the city center.
Emergency
Dial 999 for any urgent assistance required during your journey.