TransPennine Express: Tickets, Timetables and Facilities

TransPennine Express: Buy tickets conveniently and easily with Omio

Omio is the first choice for many travelers in the North of England and Scotland when it comes to buying tickets for a rail journey with TransPennine Express. Why? It's simple: you can book the entire range of services offered by the rail operator online. On our website you will find all the information you need at a glance. Whether you're looking for the latest timetable, departure and arrival times or the best prices, Omio makes travelling even easier. 

And you can benefit from many advantages. With just a few clicks, you can buy your ticket in advance and secure the best deal. Once you've bought your ticket, you can simply download it and print it out or save it digitally on your smartphone.

With Omio, you can choose between different payment methods such as PayPal, instant bank transfer or credit card and select the payment option that suits you best.

Find cheap tickets for TransPennine Express with Omio

You’ve come to the right place when searching for cheap TransPennine Express tickets! Omio offers you not only an easy and convenient way to plan your rail journey, but also great deals. We pride ourselves on offering our customers a transparent and fair pricing policy that ensures you always get the best deal. By working directly with TransPennine Express, we can offer you tickets at great value for money. You can also get special discounts, for example for students. Find your perfect connection now and save when you book with Omio.

Everything you need to know about TransPennine Express

TransPennine Express (also TPE or TPexpress) is a British railway company and subsidiary of FirstGroup. With a wide network of train services, TPexpress serves both regional and national routes in the north of England and Scotland. The trains reach speeds of up to 124 mph (200 km/h), providing a fast and efficient way to travel around the UK. The TransPennine Express map connects many major cities in the north of England and Scotland, such as Liverpool, Leeds, Manchester, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

The modern trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, power sockets and comfortable seats to make the journey as pleasant as possible. TransPennine Express is also considered particularly dog-friendly. Popular connections include the routes from Manchester to Edinburgh and from Liverpool to Newcastle.

The history of TPexpress dates back to 1990, when the first train on the TransPennine map was initially put into service by British Rails. In the following years, the company has continuously expanded its network and is now one of the leading railway companies in Great Britain.

A special attraction is the breathtaking scenery that can be admired on many of the routes. After all, the enchanting landscape of the Pennines, a low mountain range in England, gave the railway its name.

Train station in Aberdeen, Scotland. Source: Pixabay

Train tickets with TransPennine Express

TransPennine Express offers a variety of ticket types to meet the different needs of travelers. Below we present the most important ticket types:

Advance tickets

Advance tickets are suitable for travelers who plan their trip in advance and have a fixed travel time. They are often more than 50 per cent cheaper than other types of tickets, but are non-refundable. In addition, you have to book in good time, as the tickets go on sale 24 weeks before departure. Until now, you could not rebook these tickets, but that has now changed. Now you can change the tickets, but you have to pay the difference.

Airport Advance tickets

Airport Advance tickets are special tickets for travel to or from Manchester Airport. They offer similar conditions to Advance tickets, but are a little more flexible in case your flight is delayed.

Anytime tickets

Anytime Tickets are more flexible than Advance Tickets and allow travelers to travel at any time on a given day. However, they are usually more expensive. Anytime tickets come in different variants for different return scenarios, such as the Anytime Day Return Ticket for same-day return or the Anytime Return Ticket. With the latter, your return journey can take place sometime in the same calendar month.

Off Peak tickets

Off Peak Tickets are for travelers who want to travel off-peak to save money. These tickets are cheaper than anytime tickets and still offer some flexibility. However, you must adhere to the off-peak times set by the railway company.

Season tickets

Season tickets are, so to speak, subscription tickets for a specific route. There are different variants for different needs and time periods, for example one week or a whole year. Season tickets sometimes offer additional advantages such as the use of first class.

Scholars' Season Tickets

Scholars' Season Tickets are special season tickets for students who need to commute between home and school or university. They are cheaper than other Season Tickets.

First Class tickets

First Class tickets offer travelers extra comfort and amenities, such as spacious seats and complimentary snacks and drinks. These tickets are usually more expensive than standard tickets.

Rover and Rangers

Rover and Rangers offer you maximum flexibility at a good price. With a Ranger Ticket you can travel in a defined region for a whole day. With a Rover Ticket you can even travel for several days. You can enjoy absolute flexibility with the All Line Rover Ticket. With this option, you can travel as much as you like on the entire National Rail network for seven or 14 days.

Classes at TransPennine Express

In Standard Class, you can expect comfortable seats, ample space for luggage and a free Wi-Fi connection on almost all trains. However, if you prefer a little more comfort, it is also possible to upgrade to First Class. There you can relax in even more comfortable seats, stretch your legs and indulge in a complimentary selection of drinks and snacks. There are also power sockets and USB ports at every seat in first class.

Train types: TransPennine Express travels with these trains

TransPennine Express operates several different types of trains, each with their own advantages. Here we introduce you to the different series so you know exactly what to expect on your next journey.

• Nova 1
  The Nova 1 is a five-car bi-mode multiple unit running between Manchester, Liverpool, Newcastle and Edinburgh. It offers modern design and comfort and is equipped with Wi-Fi and power sockets so you can be productive on the move.
• Nova 2
  Nova 2 trains are five-car electric multiple units that run between Manchester Airport and Liverpool to Glasgow and Edinburgh via Preston. They offer spacious seating, air-conditioning and Wi-Fi so you can relax and enjoy your journey.
• Nova 3
  The Nova 3 is a five-car train with state-of-the-art traction technology that runs between Liverpool, Manchester, Leeds, York, Scarborough, Middlesbrough, Sheffield and Cleethorpes. It offers spacious seating, power sockets, Wi-Fi and air conditioning.
• 185s
  These are diesel railcars that run between Manchester, Sheffield and Cleethorpes, for example. You can also enjoy free Wi-Fi on these trains.

Timetable information: timetables and timetable changes for TransPennine Express

If you want to travel with TransPennine Express, you need reliable timetable information to plan your trip optimally. The transpennine railway offers a wide range of services, suitable for both commuters and tourists. Several trains run daily between different cities and regions of the UK, including Manchester and Liverpool. From Manchester Piccadilly to Leeds, a TransPennine Express train runs every hour on a weekday. Cities such as York and Newcastle are also served several times a day.

For exact departure times, please contact Omio or visit the TPexpress website. Please note, however, that timetables can change at short notice and it is best to check the current status before you travel.

The route map: by train through northern England and Scotland

If you want to travel through the North of England and Scotland with the TransPennine Express, you have many destinations to choose from. The trains connect Manchester and Liverpool with Scotland's capital Edinburgh, for example, or run from Newcastle to Glasgow and the port city of Hull. But smaller towns such as Huddersfield, York or Lancaster are also connected to the network.

Ribblehead Viaduct, railroad bridge in the English county of North Yorkshire. Source: Pixabay

Most popular routes with TransPennine Express

Liverpool–Manchester–Cleethorpes

This route takes you from Liverpool Lime Street station via Manchester straight across the country to Cleethorpes and back. The journey takes about three and a half hours. The connection is particularly popular because of the historic cities of Liverpool and Manchester, as well as the coastal town of Cleethorpes, which invites you to a relaxing day at the beach.

Liverpool–Edinburgh

The Liverpool to Edinburgh train service is one of the most used routes on TransPennine Express. The journey takes a good five hours, with one change at Preston. From Manchester, there is even a direct connection to Edinburgh, which takes just over four hours.

Edinburgh–Glasgow

Another very popular connection is the route from Edinburgh to Glasgow. There is even a connection between these cities several times an hour by train, especially since the trains of the Scottish railway company Scotrail also run on this route. Depending on the connection, the journey takes between around 50 minutes and just under one and a half hours.

The sustainable way: travel climate-friendly with TPexpress

TransPennine Express is committed to environmentally friendly mobility and offers its customers the opportunity to travel in a climate-friendly manner. For example, the railway company relies on modern drive and braking technologies in the newer Civity trains from the manufacturer CAF, which have significantly lower CO2 emissions thanks to energy recovery.

Digital tickets contribute to sustainability as they save paper. In addition, TransPennine Express relies on waste separation and recycling as well as the use of environmentally friendly cleaning agents and processes.

The rail company connects numerous cities and regions in the North of England and Scotland, offering an environmentally friendly alternative to the car for many people in the region. After all, travelling by train is fundamentally more environmentally friendly than travelling by car.

Tips for train travel with TransPennine Express

Before the journey

• Check the train connections in advance and choose the one that suits you best.
• Book your tickets well in advance to save money and make sure you can take the train you want.
• Check for any discounts (for example, as a student) or special offers with Omio.
• Remember to make a seat reservation if you want to ensure you get a specific seat on the train.
• If you are travelling with bicycles or pets, check TransPennine Express’ specific rules and requirements. 
• If you need to cancel a trip for any reason, find out in advance about the cancellation policy and deadlines.

During the journey

• Use the free Wi-Fi on the train to entertain yourself or be productive.
• If you have multiple pieces of luggage, remember to store them in the designated areas to free up space in the aisle and seating areas.
• If you plan to eat or drink during the journey, it is best to bring cash and a credit card. You can usually buy snacks and drinks on the trains, but not all payment methods may be available.
• Enjoy the scenery as the TPexpress travels through some of the most beautiful parts of northern England and Scotland. You could also plan a stopover along the way. There are many interesting cities to discover on your journey.

After the journey

• If you encounter any problems during your journey, contact TransPennine Express Customer Service. They will also help you if you forget something on the train.

The most important destinations: Discover Scotland and the North of England with TransPennine Express

The train journey with TransPennine Express takes you through picturesque landscapes and past historic towns to discover. We would like to briefly introduce you to the most popular destinations:

Manchester

The city in the heart of northern England is known for its vibrant music and arts scene. There are numerous museums and galleries here, as well as an impressive cathedral. A walk through the streets of Manchester is definitely worthwhile. Visit the Museum of Science and Industry, the National Football Museum or relax in Heaton Park.

Edinburgh

The Scottish capital is a real eye-catcher. The historic old town is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and offers many sights, such as Edinburgh Castle or the Royal Mile. In Edinburgh you will also find many good restaurants and cozy pubs.

Edinburgh Castle. Source: Pixabay

Liverpool

The port city on the west coast of England is known for its Beatles history and Liverpool football clubs. The Albert Dock on the River Mersey offers many attractions such as the Beatles Museum, the Liverpool Museum or the Maritime Museum. The city is also known for its first-class shopping opportunities. Last but not least, a visit to the legendary Cavern Club is a must for any Beatles fan.

You can find more exciting sights in Liverpool in our travel guide The Window Seat.

Lake District

The picturesque lakeland landscape in the northwest of England is a true natural paradise. There are many hiking trails and cycle paths here that wind through the breathtaking landscape. A visit to the Lake District is a must for nature lovers.

Newcastle

The port city in the north-east of England has a rich history and many cultural offerings. The city is also known for its lively pub scene. Art lovers should visit the BALTIC Centre for Contemporary Art, one of the largest contemporary art centers in Europe. Just a 45-minute walk or a few stops by metro from the city center is a small natural paradise, Jesmond Dene Park.

Durham

The historic city in the north-east of England is known for its impressive cathedral, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

Dunbar

This Scottish seaside town south-east of Edinburgh is known for its cliffs and magnificent sea views. Also visit the Dunbar Town House Museum & Gallery or walk along the John Muir Way.

TPexpress: offers and deals

At TPexpress, you have several ways to save money and benefit from special offers.

The cheapest TransPennine Express tickets are usually sold 24 weeks before the travel date. Be quick though, as they sell out quickly on busy routes.

If you are travelling by train in the UK, you can take advantage of cheaper fares by choosing times of day that are less busy.

If you travel the same route more than three times a week, a TransPennine Express season ticket can save you both valuable time and money. There are also a number of flexible options for different time periods.

As a student, you can get discounted tickets in various fares.

When you book your journey with Omio, you can see all the current offers and savings prices at a glance. We also give you valuable tips for your preferred route and point out alternative, cheaper ticket types.

TransPennine Express: FAQ