Is King’s Cross the Same as St Pancras? Everything You Need to Know
Traveling to London, you’re likely to need to travel through King’s Cross or St. Pancras stations at some point. But is Kings Cross the same as St. Pancras?
It can be confusing if you’re new to London, and it only gets more confusing when you hear “The next station is: Kings Cross St Pancras.” Is it one station or two?
Let’s take a look at this confusing group of stations.
Is King’s Cross the Same as St Pancras?
Yes and no. They are located just across the street from one another, and connected in many ways.
Here are main differences:
St. Pancras is an International Rail Station.
King’s Cross is a National Rail Station.
The two stations share a London Underground (tube) Station called “King’s Cross St. Pancras.”
Is it St. Pancras or St. Pancreas?
It’s a common mistake, and often the result of auto-correct. It’s St. PANCRAS. Pancras is Greek for “the one who holds everything.”
A pancreas is an organ in your body. This train station is not named after a bodily organ.
Why are St Pancras and King’s Cross Separate?
It’s simply a matter of space in a very crowded city. King’s Cross was there first, built in 1852. As London and rail travel within the UK grew, London needed more space for all the trains coming and going.
St Pancras was built in 1868 to address the need for more platforms, and has since become an international rail station with trains departing to France, Brussels, and The Netherlands.
King’s Cross St. Pancras (the underground station) was eventually built for Underground access to both stations (though the London Underground existed before this incarnation of the underground station was built).
How Far Apart are King’s Cross and St Pancras?
They’re just a short walk away from one another, about 5 minutes, or faster if you’re not toting luggage. There are both underground routes through tunnels, and overground routes walking across the street, depending on where you are and where you need to go.
Use Google Maps or Citymapper to navigate.
How to Change from King’s Cross to St Pancras?
You can simply exit one station and walk across the street (if you’re at street level), or transfer underground by following signage to the station and platform you need.
How do I Know Which Station I Need?
It should say on your ticket which station you are departing from or arriving at. If you’re unsure, you can ask the train staff, who are always willing to help travelers find their way.
Where is St Pancras in Relation to Kings Cross?
They are both on Euston Road on opposite corners, divided by Pancras Road in the middle.
London is Confusing. In Here, it’s Simple ⬇️
Are There Two Kings Cross Stations?
Sort of. There is the King’s Cross National Rail Station, where you’ll catch trains leaving London and going to other parts of the UK.
Then there is the King’s Cross St Pancras Underground Station, where you can catch the tube to other parts of London.
Which Trains Run from King’s Cross Station?
LNER, Thameslink, Great Northern, and Grand Central and the main train lines that depart and arrive at King’s Cross.
Which Trains Run from St. Pancras International?
Eurostar, East Midlands, Southeastern, and Thameslink are the main train lines that depart and arrive from St. Pancras Station.
Which tube line is St Pancras on? Which Tube Line is King’s Cross on?
St Pancras shares the King’s Cross St Pancras Underground Station with King’s Cross. King’s Cross Underground Station is very well connected, and serves the:
- Circle Line
- Hammersmith & City Line
- Victoria Line
- Northern Line
- Piccadilly Line
- Metropolitan line
It’s easy to get anywhere in London using the tube from King’s Cross St Pancras Underground Station.
How Early Do I Need to Arrive at St Pancras for Eurostar?
Allow 60-90 minutes if you’re catching an international train, such as the Eurostar to Paris or Amsterdam. At peak times, it will take a while to get through passport control and security. It’s always better to allow extra time and browse the shops at the station than miss your train!
Your train platform may not be announced yet after you get through security. Usually everyone stands under the departure board and waits for the moment the platform is announced. Then they run to the train (or walk really quickly). This is especially true if the train doesn’t have assigned seating or if you don’t have an assigned seat: rush to the train to get a good seat. It’s worth it.
How Early Do I Need to Arrive at Kings Cross?
Since King’s Cross does not have international trains, you do not need to go through passport control or security. I usually allow about 45 minutes, but I travel with children who need snacks and potty breaks. You can show up 30 minutes before your train departs and be just fine.
The platform may not be announced until shortly before the train departs. Usually everyone stands under the departure board and waits for the moment the platform is announced.
Then they run to the train (or walk really quickly). This is especially true if the train doesn’t have assigned seating or if you don’t have an assigned seat: rush to the train to get a good seat. It’s worth it.
Distinct Features of King’s Cross and St. Pancras Stations
Both Kings Cross and St. Pancras stations offer unique features and services that set them apart.
King’s Cross Highlights
- Platform 9¾: A must-visit for Harry Potter fans, the famous Platform 9¾ can be found in Kings Cross Station, where enthusiasts can take pictures pretending to run through the magical barrier.
- Local Area: Over the years, Kings Cross has undergone significant regeneration, transforming the surrounding area into a vibrant neighborhood with trendy shops, offices, and dining establishments. Check out Coal Drops Yard for a cool shopping experience, see the fountains in Granary Square, and eat at great restaurants. Walk through the light tunnel for an extra cool experience.
St. Pancras Highlights
- The Grand Arcade: St. Pancras boasts the impressive Grand Arcade, a shopping area with a variety of luxury boutiques, cafes, and restaurants, offering a refined shopping experience.
- International Travel: St. Pancras is the departure point for Eurostar trains, connecting London to Paris, Brussels, and other European cities via the Channel Tunnel.
Tips for Navigating through King’s Cross & St. Pancras
- Allow extra time. There are 36 platforms between the two stations, and both stations are massive. It may take you extra time to arrive and depart simply because these stations are huge and require a lot of walking.
- If you have extra time, check out nearby Granary Square and Coal Drops Yard for cool shopping, sightseeing and restaurants.
- Double check your ticket. The last thing you want is arriving at the wrong platform and missing your train!
King’s Cross or St Pancras: Final Thoughts
While the names Kings Cross and St. Pancras are often used interchangeably, they refer to two distinct and historically significant railway stations in London.
Kings Cross Station is known for its iconic Victorian facade and Northbound services, while St. Pancras Station stands out with its awe-inspiring Gothic architecture and international connectivity through the Eurostar.
Enjoy traveling through these epic stations, and make sure to double check you know which one you’re going to!
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