Salisbury
Salisbury
Derby
Derby
Train Driving

Salisbury to Derby

Updated: 31 May 2026

The journey from Salisbury to Derby covers about 240 kilometers. By train, you travel to London and then take an East Midlands Railway service from St Pancras International to Derby. Driving involves the A303, M3, M25, and M1. Derby is a historic city with a rich industrial heritage. This route takes you from the south to the heart of the East Midlands.

Total Distance: 240 km driving distance, 190 km straight-line air distance.
Fastest Way
Train via London, taking approximately 3 hours.
Cheapest Way
Train booked well in advance via East Midlands Railway's website.
Compare Salisbury to Derby Routes
Train
Connecting
Driving
Direct
Duration 3 hours 3 hours 30 mins
Avg Price £60 - £120 £45 - £80 in fuel
Operator East Midlands Railway and South Western Railway N/A
Route Salisbury to London Waterloo, transfer to London St Pancras, then to Derby. A303, M3, M25, M1.
Tip Book your East Midlands Railway ticket in advance for the best price. The M1 can be busy; check traffic before departing.
Travel Tips
  • London Transfer
    Use the Underground to move between Waterloo and St Pancras.
  • Booking
    Use the Trainline app to monitor for cheaper off-peak tickets.
  • Parking
    Use the multi-story car parks near the city center.
  • Local Travel
    Derby is very walkable; you won't need much public transport.
  • Booking
    Check for engineering works on the rail network before traveling.
Safety Tips
  • Station Vigilance
    Keep your bags secure in busy London stations.
  • Driving Breaks
    Stop at Leicester Forest East services on the M1 to stay refreshed.
  • Night Safety
    Stick to well-lit areas in the city center at night.
  • Emergency
    Keep a mobile phone charged for navigation and emergencies.
People Also Ask
  • Is Derby walkable?
    Yes, the city center is very compact.
  • How long is the train?
    Approximately 3 hours.
  • Are there direct trains?
    No, you must change in London.
  • What is the best motorway?
    The M1 is the primary route.
  • Is it safe to drive?
    Yes, but be prepared for heavy traffic on the M1.
Quick Info
  • From Salisbury, Wiltshire, United Kingdom
  • To Derby, Derbyshire, United Kingdom
  • Modes
Best Time to Travel

May to September for pleasant weather to explore the city.

Things to Do in Derby
1
Derby Museum and Art Gallery
Explore the diverse collections of art and history.
2
Derby Cathedral
Visit the historic cathedral in the city center.
3
Pickford's House
Explore this historic house and its gardens.
4
Derby Silk Mill
Learn about the city's industrial history.
Tags
Salisbury to Derby train driving to Derby Salisbury travel Derby transport East Midlands Railway South Western Railway UK travel guide fastest route to Derby cheap train tickets M1 motorway