Stratford International Rail Station

Stratford International is a modern railway station located in the eastern part of London, in the borough of Newham. Despite its grand name, it currently serves primarily high-speed domestic trains, connecting the capital with the county of Kent. The station is located in the immediate vicinity of the famous Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park and the major shopping centre Westfield Stratford City.

It is important for passengers to know that this station should not be confused with Stratford (Regional) station, which is a major hub for the Underground and suburban trains located a 10-minute walk away. Stratford International serves the High Speed 1 line and Docklands Light Railway (DLR) trains. The station entrance is located at ground level, while the platforms are situated below in a concrete box, accessible via convenient lifts and escalators.

• Official Website: Southeastern Railway (managing company)
• Helpline: National Rail Enquiries (national rail information service)
• Address: International Way, Stratford, London, E20 1YY, United Kingdom
• Opening Hours: Daily, approximately from 05:30 to 00:00 (please verify before travel)
• Luggage Storage Information: There are no luggage lockers at the station itself; it is recommended to use services at Westfield Shopping Centre or St Pancras International
• Accessibility Information: The station is fully barrier-free, equipped with lifts to all platforms and restrooms for people of determination

The fastest and most convenient way to reach the station from central London is to take the high-speed Javelin train (Southeastern High Speed) from St Pancras International. The journey takes just 7 minutes. Automatic light metro (DLR) trains also arrive here, connecting the station with the neighbouring Stratford transport hub and the Woolwich area.

If you are arriving by taxi, ask the driver to drop you off at International Way; drop-off is right at the main entrance. From Stratford Underground station (Central, Jubilee lines), you can walk for 10–15 minutes through the Westfield shopping centre or take the DLR for one stop.

Stratford International Station offers passengers a modern and spacious concourse. Travelers can make use of ticket offices and self-service machines where tickets can be purchased and transport cards topped up. Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the station area.

Seating areas, clean restrooms (including baby changing facilities), and ATMs are provided for comfortable waiting. Special attention is paid to accessibility: the station is equipped with ramps and wide lifts, making it convenient for passengers with luggage and people of determination.

Inside the station building itself, the selection of outlets is limited but ideal for passengers in a hurry. Usually, there is a coffee shop (such as Pret A Manger or Starbucks) where you can quickly buy a sandwich, pastries, and a hot drink. The average cost for a light snack is around 5–8 pounds.

If you have time, simply cross the road to Westfield Stratford City shopping centre. It houses a huge food court and dozens of restaurants to suit every taste—including many Halal-friendly options—where you can spend time before your train departs.

The history of the station is inextricably linked to the construction of the UK's first high-speed railway line, High Speed 1. The station was built in 2006 but opened to passengers only in 2009 with the launch of domestic high-speed trains. The name "International" reflects the original plan, according to which international Eurostar trains travelling to Paris and Brussels were supposed to stop here.

Although Eurostar trains pass through the station without stopping, the station has become an important transport hub. It played a key role during the 2012 Olympic Games, ensuring the rapid transport of thousands of spectators from central London directly to the Olympic Park.

When planning your trip, note that Oyster cards and contactless payments are accepted for travel on high-speed trains between Stratford and St Pancras, although fares here are higher than standard Underground prices. Arrive at the station 15–20 minutes before departure; boarding is usually quick and hassle-free.

Regarding security, the station meets high standards, but do not leave your luggage unattended. If you have an overnight transfer, remember that the station closes for several hours at night, so it is not possible to wait inside during this time.