Cambridge to Preston train with Northern Rail

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
Northern Rail
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Northern Rail
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cambridge to Preston

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$130

Average price

$130

Fastest journey

5 h 40 m

Average duration

5 h 40 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

257 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cambridge to Preston will cost around $130 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $130.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Cambridge for Preston on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 257 km distance in an average of 5 h 40 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 40 m .

On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 5 h 40 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.

  • Northern Rail
    11:01 AM5h40
    Cambridge
    4:41 PMPreston
    $1301One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cambridge to Preston

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $45. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 49m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $45, and a train costs an average of $103.

Distance: 159 miles (257 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$131

Average price

$79

Average price

Cheapest

$71

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 19m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 49m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

16h 22m

Average total duration

15h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 48m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cambridge to Preston is a bus with an average price of $79 (€64).

This is compared to other travel options from Cambridge to Preston:

A bus is $52 (€43) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cambridge to Preston costing on average $131 (€107).

The fastest way to travel from Cambridge to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 3h 49m.

Other travel options to Preston take longer:

Bus takes on average 15h 52m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cambridge and Preston including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge to Preston among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $131 (€107) compared to roughly $71 (€58) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-60.03 (€-49.11). The journey takes 3h 49m versus 3h 48m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Cambridge to Preston train times

The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Preston trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG00967+Avanti West CoastW33795
On time
12:00 PM Cambridge station (CBG)
4h51
4:51 PM Preston station (PRE)
1 transfer
Northern RailG88990+CrossCountryG00967+London North Eastern RailwayG08105
Delayed
1:59 PM 12:00 PMCambridge station (CBG)
4h38
4:38 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33395+TubeTube from Finsbury Park to London Euston+ThameslinkX63969
Delayed
1:30 PM 12:51 PMCambridge station (CBG)
3h48
4:39 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00970+Avanti West CoastW33798
On time
1:00 PM Cambridge station (CBG)
4h51
5:51 PM Preston station (PRE)
1 transfer
Northern RailG88996+CrossCountryG00970+London North Eastern RailwayG08113
Delayed
2:58 PM 1:00 PMCambridge station (CBG)
4h38
5:38 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33574+Great NorthernG77011+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Euston
Delayed
2:30 PM 1:42 PMCambridge station (CBG)
3h57
5:39 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33574+ThameslinkX63967+TubeTube from Finsbury Park to London Euston
Delayed
2:30 PM 1:51 PMCambridge station (CBG)
3h48
5:39 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00972+Avanti West CoastW33796
On time
2:00 PM Cambridge station (CBG)
4h51
6:51 PM Preston station (PRE)
1 transfer
Greater AngliaP66839+East Midlands RailwayC04470+Northern RailG89058
On time
2:30 PM Cambridge North (CMB)
5h02
7:32 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
TubeTube from Finsbury Park to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33543+ThameslinkX63965
On time
2:51 PM Cambridge station (CBG)
3h48
6:39 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00976+LumoY14782
On time
3:00 PM Cambridge station (CBG)
3h59
6:59 PM Preston station (PRE)
1 transfer
Greater AngliaP01768+East Midlands RailwayC04473+Northern RailG89059
On time
3:30 PM Cambridge North (CMB)
5h02
8:32 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
TubeTube from Finsbury Park to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33717+ThameslinkX63963
On time
3:51 PM Cambridge station (CBG)
3h48
7:39 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00979+Avanti West CoastW33674
On time
4:00 PM Cambridge station (CBG)
4h52
8:52 PM Preston station (PRE)
1 transfer
Northern RailG89016+London North Eastern RailwayG08137+CrossCountryG00979
Delayed
6:59 PM 4:00 PMCambridge station (CBG)
5h38
9:38 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
Northern RailG89016+Greater AngliaP66851+East Midlands RailwayC04475+London North Eastern RailwayG08137
Delayed
6:59 PM 4:30 PMCambridge North (CMB)
5h08
9:38 PM Preston station (PRE)
3 transfers
Greater AngliaP66851+East Midlands RailwayC04475+Northern RailG89583
On time
4:30 PM Cambridge North (CMB)
5h22
9:52 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
TubeTube from Finsbury Park to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33709+ThameslinkX63961
On time
4:51 PM Cambridge station (CBG)
3h48
8:39 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
TubeTube from Finsbury Park to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33759+ThameslinkX63959
On time
5:51 PM Cambridge station (CBG)
4h04
9:55 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00983+London North Eastern RailwayG80186+Transpennine ExpressW84733+Northern RailG89061
On time
6:00 PM Cambridge station (CBG)
5h03
11:03 PM Preston station (PRE)
3 transfers
Transpennine ExpressW84733+Northern RailG89061+Greater AngliaP01167+London North Eastern RailwayG80186
Delayed
7:40 PM 6:26 PMCambridge North (CMB)
4h37
11:03 PM Preston station (PRE)
4 transfers
Great NorthernG77067+TubeTube from London Kings Cross to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33705
On time
6:42 PM Cambridge station (CBG)
4h37
11:19 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers
Northern RailC31720+CrossCountryG00986+London North Eastern RailwayG08147
Delayed
8:59 PM 7:00 PMCambridge station (CBG)
4h38
11:38 PM Preston station (PRE)
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cambridge to Preston by bus or train

Compare bus and train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Cambridge to Preston trains with Omio?

Northern Rail as well as Avanti West Coast or Cross Country offer trains services from Cambridge to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Preston.

Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge 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 Northern Rail with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cambridge to Preston.

Why book with Omio over Trip, Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Preston.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cambridge to Preston.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cambridge to Preston

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cambridge to Preston run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $103 (€84) but you can travel from only $45 (€37) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 05:11, the last at 22:47. The fastest train covers the 159 miles (257 km) distance in 5h 17m.

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 $45 (€37)
Distance
159 miles (257 km)
Average train duration
3h 49m
Cheapest ticket price
$103 (€84)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
5h 17m
First train
5:11 AM
Last train
10:47 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
35 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 $45 (€37)

Train companies: Northern Rail, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country from Cambridge to Preston trainsNorthern Rail, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country trains will get you between Cambridge and Preston from $45 (€37). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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
Average Duration
5h 40m
Cheapest Price
$130 (€106)
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

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
4h 21m
Cheapest Price
$157 (€129)
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 46m
Cheapest Price
$189 (€155)
Cross Country frequency
17 a day

FAQs: Trains from Cambridge to Preston

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cambridge to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $103 (€84), while the average price is around $131 (€107).
The train from Cambridge to Preston takes 5h 17m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Cambridge to Preston is 159 miles (257 km).
The first train from Cambridge to Preston leaves at 5:11 AM.
The last train from Cambridge to Preston leaves at 10:47 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cambridge to Preston.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cambridge to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cambridge to Preston.
The train station in Cambridge that goes to Preston is Cambridge station (CBG), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Cambridge to Preston is by bus, with a cost of around $45 (€37).
The train journey from Cambridge to Preston offers a mix of urban and countryside views, passing through historic towns, rolling fields, and parts of the scenic Peak District, making it a pleasant experience for travelers.
A day trip from Cambridge to Preston is not feasible as the one-way journey takes 5h 17m. Trains run 6 times per day, covering a distance of 159 miles (257 km).
To fully experience Preston's main attractions and local culture, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Cambridge to Preston.
Since neither Cambridge nor Preston are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Preston include London, Bolton, Blackburn, Manchester, Lancaster.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge to Preston among Omio's users.
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 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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cambridge to Preston

Most Cambridge to Preston trains use the Cambridge to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Cambridge and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cambridge
Arrival train stations in Preston

Which Cambridge station do trains to Preston leave from?

Trains from Cambridge to Preston leave from Cambridge. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Cambridge city centre at Cambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW.
CambridgeCambridge station, Station Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB1 2JW+44 8450507080WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Cambridge from Cambridge city centre

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

BusU1, U2 · 11m · every ~11 min
Tour · 13m · $2
75 · 15m
A · 15m · $2 · every ~11 min

Cambridge train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cambridge.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cambridge.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cambridge: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cambridge: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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: No.

Cambridge NorthCambridge North Station, Cowley Road, Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, CB4 0WZ+44 8450507080WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cambridge North from Cambridge city centre

Cambridge North is 3 km from Cambridge city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLondon Liverpool Street - Cambridge North, Stansted Airport - Norwich, Cambridge - Norwich, London Liverpool Street - Ely, Stansted Airport - Lowestoft, Cambridge - Cambridge North, Bishops Stortford - Cambridge North, Audley End - Cambridge North, Audley End - Norwich · 3m · $2 · every ~6 min
BusB · 12m · $2 · every ~8 min
114 · 18m
2, B · 23m · $2 · every ~19 min

Cambridge North train station facilities and services

Cambridge North has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cambridge North.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Cambridge North.

Tickets and information

Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 2878.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cambridge North: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cambridge North: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cambridge North: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible taxis: Details of the nearest taxi will be supplied by station staff, 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.

More options for your journey from Cambridge to Preston

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