- Must visit
The Harris
Preston's leading museum and gallery, known for fine art, history, and architecture. A cornerstone cultural attraction in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Birmingham to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 29
Cheapest price on Oct 29
$23
Average ticket price on Oct 29
$38
Fastest journey on Oct 29
1 h 43 m
Average journey duration on Oct 29
1 h 43 m
Trains on Oct 29
15
Distance
153 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Birmingham to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Birmingham to Preston will cost around $38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.
Fast trains
On Thu, Oct 29, we found 15 trains from Birmingham to Preston, including 10 direct services.
On Thu, Oct 29 the direct trains cover the 153 km distance in an average of 1 h 43 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 43 m .
On Thu, Oct 29 the slowest trains will take 1 h 44 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
W342887:07 PM 1h44 Birmingham New Street (BHM) 8:51 PM Preston station (PRE) $23 1 One-way 0 transfers- W34287
5:07 PM 1h44 Birmingham New Street (BHM) 6:51 PM Preston station (PRE) $24 1 One-way 0 transfers - W34292
3:07 PM 1h43 Birmingham New Street (BHM) 4:50 PM Preston station (PRE) $24 1 One-way 0 transfers - C01369
9:07 AM 1h43 Birmingham New Street (BHM) 10:50 AM Preston station (PRE) $24 1 One-way 0 transfers - W34289
4:07 PM 1h44 Birmingham New Street (BHM) 5:51 PM Preston station (PRE) $24 1 One-way 0 transfers
- W34292
3:07 PM 1h43 Birmingham New Street (BHM) 4:50 PM Preston station (PRE) $24 1 One-way 0 transfers - C01369
9:07 AM 1h43 Birmingham New Street (BHM) 10:50 AM Preston station (PRE) $24 1 One-way 0 transfers - W33935
11:07 AM 1h43 Birmingham New Street (BHM) 12:50 PM Preston station (PRE) $25 1 One-way 0 transfers - W34287
5:07 PM 1h44 Birmingham New Street (BHM) 6:51 PM Preston station (PRE) $24 1 One-way 0 transfers - W33941
10:07 AM 1h44 Birmingham New Street (BHM) 11:51 AM Preston station (PRE) $34 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Birmingham to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Birmingham to Preston run on average 7 times per day, taking around 1h 45m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $18 (€16) but you can travel from only $14 (€12) by bus.
There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:56, the last at 22:30. The fastest train covers the 95 miles (153 km) distance in 1h 34m.
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 $14 (€12)
Distance 95 miles (153 km) |
Average train duration 1h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 (€16) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 6 |
Fastest train 1h 34m |
First train 4:56 AM |
Last train 10:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $14 (€12)
Frequently asked questions about your Birmingham to Preston trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Birmingham to Preston.
Train ticket prices from Birmingham to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $18 (€16), while the average price is around $40 (€34).
The train from Birmingham to Preston takes 1h 34m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Birmingham to Preston leaves at 4:56 AM.
The distance by train from Birmingham to Preston is 95 miles (153 km).
The last train from Birmingham to Preston leaves at 10:30 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Birmingham to Preston. This service operates 6 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast.
Live departures
Birmingham to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Birmingham to Preston trains for tomorrow, Thursday, October 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C01369 | 9:07 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h43 | 10:50 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W33941 | 10:07 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h44 | 11:51 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W33935 | 11:07 AM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h43 | 12:50 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34286 | 12:07 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h44 | 1:51 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C01372 | 1:07 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h45 | 2:52 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
 P69430+W34290 | 1:11 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 2h40 | 3:51 PM Preston station (PRE) | 1 transfer | |
| W34290 | 2:07 PM Birmingham New Street (BHM) | 1h44 | 3:51 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Birmingham to Preston trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as CrossCountry or West Midlands Trains offer trains services from Birmingham to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Preston.
- 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham to Preston.
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains from Birmingham to Preston trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Birmingham and Preston from $14 (€12). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Avanti West Coast Duration
1h 35m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$18 (€16)
Avanti West Coast frequency
6 a day
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
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
2h 12m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$38 (€32)
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average West Midlands Trains Duration
1h 34m
Cheapest West Midlands Trains Price
$56 (€47)
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Birmingham and Preston
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Birmingham to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Birmingham to Preston.
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.
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Lancashire
Museum of Lancashire history with social, military, and industrial displays. A strong introduction to the county's people and stories.
- Recommended
Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library
Modern university gallery presenting changing contemporary art exhibitions. Worth visiting for fresh work by regional and national artists.
- Recommended
Flag Market
Main civic square framed by major buildings and regular events. A central meeting point and one of Preston's most recognisable public spaces.
- Recommended
Lancaster Canal Towpath
Canal-side walking and cycling route with locks, boats, and long views. Ideal for a relaxed local ramble away from the busiest streets.
- Recommended
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Extensive riverside and wetland area popular for walking, birdlife, and broad open views. A lesser-known escape close to the city.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
Lancashire hotpot is a slow-cooked lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes, long linked with Lancashire home cooking and nearby mill towns.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is Preston's best-known savoury pie, filled with potato, onion and butter. It became a Friday staple for local Catholics avoiding meat.
- Vegetarian
Parkin
Parkin is a dark oat, treacle and ginger cake popular across Lancashire, especially in colder months and around Bonfire Night.
Northcote
Elegant fine dining by chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in a country house setting.
Angelo's
Long-established city centre restaurant serving classic Italian dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting. Popular for pasta, seafood and pre-theatre meals.
The Old Black Bull
Traditional Lancashire pub atmosphere with cask ales and hearty British plates. A good place to try regional comfort food in central Preston.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Preston; ask the driver for the cheapest suitable ticket.
- Most local travel is by bus from Preston Bus Station; check live departures in the Stagecoach Bus app before you travel.
Plan your visit to Preston
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Preston.
The train journey from Birmingham to Preston offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including glimpses of the West Midlands' industrial heritage and stretches of the picturesque Lancashire countryside.
Popular day trips by train from Preston include London, Bolton, Blackburn, Manchester, Lancaster.
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 Preston, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and bogus charity collectors. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help ensure safety.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Birmingham to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Birmingham to Preston.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Birmingham to Preston
Most Birmingham to Preston trains use the Birmingham New Street to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Birmingham and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Birmingham
Arrival train stations in Preston
Birmingham New StreetStation Street, Birmingham, West Midlands, B2 4QA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham New Street from Birmingham city centre
Bus16 · 7m · $3 · every ~27 min
Birmingham New Street train station facilities and services
Birmingham New Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: All Bar One, Leon, Caffè Nero, Five Guys, Krispy Kreme, The Pasty Shop, Upper Crust, Wasabi, Starbucks, Hotel Chocolat
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available from Sky Wi-Fi The Cloud. ATMs are aTM machines are located on the paid concourse.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:15 - 23:00, Sun: 07:30 - 23:00. Information desks are in the middle of the station.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is you can leave bags with Excess Baggage Co inside the entrance off Hill Street. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham New Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birmingham New Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham New Street: Step-free access in the whole station and ramps available for train access. All platforms have elevators and escalators.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Birmingham City Center, Premier Inn Birmingham City Center (New St Station), Radisson Blue Hotel, Birmingham.
Birmingham InternationalBirmingham International station, Stationlink Road, National Exhibition Centre, Birmingham, West Midlands, B40 1PA
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham International from Birmingham city centre
Birmingham International is 12 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainRugeley Trent Valley - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Birmingham International, Birmingham New Street - Coventry, Birmingham New Street - Northampton, Walsall - London Euston, Birmingham New Street - Milton Keynes Central, Birmingham New Street - Rugby, Liverpool Lime Street - Coventry, Wolverhampton - Birmingham International, Liverpool Lime Street - Birmingham International · 9m · $6 · every ~8 min
BusX1 · 39m · $5 · every ~23 min
X1 · 40m · $5 · every ~23 min
17A · 53m · $5 · every ~19 min
Birmingham International train station facilities and services
Birmingham International has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Birmingham International.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Birmingham International. ATMs are available at Birmingham International.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Birmingham International. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Birmingham International: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Birmingham International: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Birmingham International: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Small HeathSmall Heath station, Golden Hillock Road, Small Heath, West Midlands, B10 0DP+44 333 311 0039
City-centre transport
Getting to Small Heath from Birmingham city centre
Small Heath is 3 km from Birmingham city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainBirmingham Snow Hill - Whitlocks End, Birmingham Snow Hill - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Foregate Street - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Shrub Hill - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Shrub Hill - Dorridge, Worcester Foregate Street - Dorridge, Worcester Foregate Street - Leamington Spa, Worcester Shrub Hill - Leamington Spa, Kidderminster - Stratford-upon-Avon, Kidderminster - Whitlocks End, Stourbridge Junction - Stratford-upon-Avon, Worcester Foregate Street - Whitlocks End · 7m · $2 · every ~5 min
BusX2, X1 · 14m · $3 · every ~29 min
Small Heath train station facilities and services
Small Heath has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Small Heath.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Small Heath. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248998, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Small Heath: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Small Heath: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Small Heath: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Which Preston station do trains from Birmingham arrive at?
Trains from Birmingham to Preston arrive at Preston. Preston is 0 miles (1 km) from Preston city centre.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · $11 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Train stations for Birmingham to Preston
Check train stations information for Birmingham and Preston, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Birmingham that goes to Preston is Birmingham New Street, which connects to Preston.
Most popular train connections from Birmingham
More options for your journey from Birmingham to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Birmingham
Most popular train connections to Preston
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