Bristol to Manchester train with CrossCountry

Thu, Oct 08
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Bristol to Manchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 08

Cheapest price on Oct 08

$33

Average ticket price on Oct 08

$93

Fastest journey on Oct 08

2 h 58 m

Average journey duration on Oct 08

2 h 59 m

Trains on Oct 08

21

Distance

227 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Bristol to Manchester will cost around $93 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.

Fast trains

On Thu, Oct 08, we found 21 trains from Bristol to Manchester, including 7 direct services.

On Thu, Oct 08 the direct trains cover the 227 km distance in an average of 2 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 58 m .

On Thu, Oct 08 the slowest trains will take 2 h 59 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.

  • CrossCountryG00888
    4:00 PM2h59
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    6:59 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $331One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG66779+West Midlands TrainsC17782+Northern RailL89091
    6:00 PM3h40
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    9:40 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $481One-way
    2 transfers
  • CrossCountryG00908 · G00912
    6:55 PM3h35
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    10:30 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $481One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG66779 · G00901
    6:00 PM3h29
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    9:29 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $481One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayG15527 · G14941+Transport for WalesG39004
    6:10 PM4h11
    Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
    10:21 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $491One-way
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Bristol to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Bristol to Manchester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 12m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $29 but you can travel from only $10 by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:40, the last at 23:36. The fastest train covers the 141 miles (227 km) distance in 2h 44m.

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 $10
Distance
141 miles (227 km)
Average train duration
3h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
$29
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 44m
First train
3:40 AM
Last train
11:36 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
28 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 $10

Live departures

Bristol to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Manchester trains for today, Wednesday, October 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG00854
Delayed
8:00 AM 9:00 AMBristol Temple Meads (BRI)
2h59
11:06 AM 11:06 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG00872
On time
1:00 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
2h59
3:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15498+Transport for WalesG38955
On time
1:25 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h48
5:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00876
On time
2:00 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
2h59
4:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15011+Transport for WalesG38991
On time
2:01 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
4h13
6:14 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15522 · G14940+Transport for WalesG38991
On time
2:09 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
4h05
6:14 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayW34999+Transport for WalesG38957
On time
2:57 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
4h16
7:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00883
On time
3:00 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
2h59
5:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayY41809 · W34629+Transport for WalesG38957
On time
3:08 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
4h05
7:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
Great Western RailwayG15014+Transport for WalesG38999
On time
3:57 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
4h16
8:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00888
On time
4:00 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
2h59
6:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15525 · W34632+Transport for WalesG38999
On time
4:08 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
4h05
8:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00894
On time
5:00 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
2h59
7:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15502+Transport for WalesG38959
On time
5:24 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h49
9:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00723+Avanti West CoastW34288+Transport for WalesG38959
On time
5:33 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h40
9:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00723+Avanti West CoastW34288 · C01361 · W34024
On time
5:33 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h32
9:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3 transfers
CrossCountryG66779+West Midlands TrainsC17782+Northern RailL89091
On time
6:00 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h40
9:40 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG66779 · G00901
On time
6:00 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h29
9:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
Thursday, October 8
CrossCountryG667218:01 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
2h58
10:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15526 · G14933+Transport for WalesG389678:08 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
4h05
12:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers
CrossCountryG008549:00 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
2h59
11:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayC48821+Transport for WalesG389499:28 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h45
1:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
CrossCountryG6673010:00 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
2h59
12:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG6673511:00 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
2h59
1:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15496+Transport for WalesG3895311:29 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
3h44
3:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayG15007+Transport for WalesG3898311:58 AM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
4h15
4:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
CrossCountryG0086512:00 PM Bristol Temple Meads (BRI)
2h59
2:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Bristol to Manchester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Bristol to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bristol to Manchester.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Bristol 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bristol to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Bristol to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Bristol to Manchester.

Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales from Bristol to Manchester trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales trains will get you between Bristol and Manchester from $10. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 44m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$31
CrossCountry frequency
5 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

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
3h 18m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$29
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
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 Bristol to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol 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 Bristol to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $29, while the average price is around $86.
The train from Bristol to Manchester takes 2h 44m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Bristol to Manchester leaves at 3:40 AM.
The distance by train from Bristol to Manchester is 141 miles (227 km).
The last train from Bristol to Manchester leaves at 11:36 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Bristol to Manchester.
Yes, there is a direct train from Bristol to Manchester. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Bristol to Manchester.
The train station in Bristol that goes to Manchester is Bristol Temple Meads (BRI), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The train journey from Bristol to Manchester offers a mix of urban and countryside views, passing through picturesque areas like the Cotswolds and Peak District, enhancing the scenic experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Bristol 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 Bristol to Manchester

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

Departure train stations in Bristol
Arrival train stations in Manchester
Bristol Temple MeadsStation Approach, Bristol, BS1 6QF, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Bristol Temple Meads from Bristol city centre

Bus16 · 7m · $5 · every ~12 min
X39, 16, 39, 522 · 8m · $5 · every ~49 min
512 · 14m
9 · 15m · $5 · every ~22 min

Bristol Temple Meads train station facilities and services

Bristol Temple Meads has practical services for this route, including Wifi, 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: The Pasty Shop, Starbucks, Upper Crust, Pumpkin Café, Hart's Bakery

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located near Platform 3.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:30 - 21:30, Sun: 06:45 - 21:30. Information desks are located near the main entrance.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Bristol Temple Meads: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol Temple Meads: Wheelchair access, elevators, escalators. .

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Bristol City Center, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Bristol City Center, Hilton Garden Inn Bristol City Center.

MontpelierMontpelier station, Station Road, Montpelier, Bristol, City of, BS6 5EEParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Montpelier from Bristol city centre

Montpelier is 1 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus13 · 11m · $2 · every ~4 min
76, 75, 73 · 15m · $5 · every ~53 min

Montpelier train station facilities and services

Montpelier has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Montpelier.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Montpelier: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Montpelier: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Montpelier: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to the platform, Accessible taxis: No, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

RedlandRedland station, South Road, Redland, Bristol, City of, BS6 6QPParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Redland from Bristol city centre

Redland is 1 km from Bristol city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainBristol Temple Meads - Severn Beach, Bristol Temple Meads - Avonmouth, Weston-super-Mare - Severn Beach, Weston-super-Mare - Avonmouth, Taunton - Severn Beach, Weston-super-Mare - Clifton Down · 11m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus72 · 6m · $5 · every ~8 min
72 · 12m · $5 · every ~8 min

Redland train station facilities and services

Redland has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Redland.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Redland: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Redland: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Redland: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free - Category A Station - This station has step free access to the platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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