Bedford to Manchester train with East Midlands Railway

Wed, Aug 05
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East Midlands Railway
Avanti West Coast
Transpennine Express
Northern Rail
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
East Midlands Railway
Avanti West Coast
Transpennine Express
Northern Rail
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bedford to Manchester

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

$158

Average price

$226

Fastest journey

2 h 40 m

Average duration

3 h 14 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

191 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Bedford to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Bedford to Manchester will cost around $226 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $158.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Bedford to Manchester without transferring at least 2 times.

  • East Midlands RailwayW70847 · W70945+Northern RailP24793
    7:11 AM3h21
    Bedford station (BDM)
    10:32 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1581One-way
    2 transfers
  • East Midlands RailwayC41847 · W70940+Northern RailP24780
    6:26 AM3h06
    Bedford station (BDM)
    9:32 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1581One-way
    2 transfers
  • East Midlands RailwayW70845 · C21767+Transpennine ExpressW84661
    6:39 AM3h26
    Bedford station (BDM)
    10:05 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1581One-way
    2 transfers
  • East Midlands RailwayW70845+CrossCountryG66937+Avanti West CoastW34021
    6:39 AM2h40
    Bedford station (BDM)
    9:19 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $2991One-way
    2 transfers
  • East Midlands RailwayC04203+TubeTube from London St Pancras International to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW34070
    6:40 AM3h39
    Bedford station (BDM)
    10:19 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $3591One-way
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bedford to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Bedford to Manchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 but you can travel from only $44 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:13, the last at 22:15. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 2h 54m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $44
Distance
118 miles (191 km)
Average train duration
2h 41m
Cheapest ticket price
$61
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
2h 54m
First train
4:13 AM
Last train
10:15 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
14 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $44

Live departures

Bedford to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Bedford to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
East Midlands RailwayC41847 · W70940+Northern RailP247806:26 AM Bedford station (BDM)
3h06
9:32 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers
East Midlands RailwayW70845 · C21767+Transpennine ExpressW846616:39 AM Bedford station (BDM)
3h26
10:05 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers
East Midlands RailwayW70845+Avanti West CoastW34021+CrossCountryG669376:39 AM Bedford station (BDM)
2h40
9:19 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers
East Midlands RailwayC04203+Avanti West CoastW34070+TubeTube from London St Pancras International to London Euston6:40 AM Bedford station (BDM)
3h39
10:19 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers
East Midlands RailwayW70847 · W70945+Northern RailP247937:11 AM Bedford station (BDM)
3h21
10:32 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Bedford to Manchester trains with Omio?

East Midlands Railway as well as Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Northern Rail and more offer trains services from Bedford to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bedford to Manchester.

Why book with Omio vs East Midlands Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for East Midlands Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express or Northern Rail to find the best option for your trip from Bedford to Manchester.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare East Midlands Railway with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bedford to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Rome2rio or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express or Northern Rail to find the best option for your trip from Bedford to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bedford to Manchester.

Train companies: East Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Northern Rail from Bedford to Manchester trainsEast Midlands Railway, Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, Northern Rail trains will get you between Bedford and Manchester from $44. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

East Midlands Railway

About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 8m
Cheapest Price
$61
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 54m
Cheapest Price
$82
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Transpennine Express

About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Transpennine Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Northern Rail

About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Northern Rail frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Manchester

Things to do in Manchester

Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.

  • Must visit

Science and Industry Museum

Leading museum of science, industry, transport, and computing on a historic railway site. Essential for understanding Manchester's global impact.

  • Must visit

Manchester Art Gallery

Major art museum with Pre-Raphaelite works, design, and changing exhibitions. A central cultural stop with broad appeal.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

The University of Manchester museum spans dinosaurs, Egypt, nature, and anthropology. Recently renewed and excellent for varied interests.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost less than London, while dining and transit are manageable for tourists with many mid-range options.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual eats.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included. If not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common for good service. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.

FAQs: Trains from Bedford to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bedford to Manchester by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Bedford to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61, while the average price is around $87.
The train from Bedford to Manchester takes 2h 54m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Bedford to Manchester is 118 miles (191 km).
The first train from Bedford to Manchester leaves at 4:13 AM.
The last train from Bedford to Manchester leaves at 10:15 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Bedford to Manchester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Bedford to Manchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bedford to Manchester.
The train station in Bedford that goes to Manchester is Bedford station (BDM), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The train journey from Bedford to Manchester offers varied scenery, including stretches of countryside, urban landscapes, and glimpses of the Peak District, providing a pleasant and diverse visual experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Bedford to Manchester.
Popular day trips by train from Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety risks.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Bedford to Manchester

Most Bedford to Manchester trains use the Bedford to Manchester Piccadilly station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester Airport. Use this guide to compare Bedford and Manchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Bedford
Arrival train stations in Manchester

Which Bedford station do trains to Manchester leave from?

Trains from Bedford to Manchester leave from Bedford. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Bedford city centre at Bedford station, Ashburnham Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 1DS.
BedfordBedford station, Ashburnham Road, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK40 1DSWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking

Bedford train station facilities and services

Bedford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Bedford.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Bedford. ATMs are available at Bedford.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bedford.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bedford: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bedford: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bedford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is adjacent to the taxi rank at the front of the station, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Bedford St JohnsBedford St Johns station, Melbourne Street, Bedford, Bedfordshire, MK42 9ANParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Bedford St Johns from Bedford city centre

Location for Rail Replacement ServicesIn the event of engineering the bus/coach will collect from the Medbourne Road car park, by the path leading to the platform. Please check the direction of travel before boarding.

Bedford St Johns train station facilities and services

Bedford St Johns has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Bedford St Johns.

Tickets and information

Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bedford St Johns: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Bedford St Johns: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bedford St Johns: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not accessible, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

More options for your journey from Bedford to Manchester

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