- 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.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cheltenham to Preston
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€180
Average price
€180
Fastest journey
2 h 36 m
Average duration
2 h 38 m
Trains per day
12
Distance
212 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cheltenham to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to Preston will cost around €180 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €180.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cheltenham to Preston without transferring at least once.
7:14 AM2h36Cheltenham9:50 AMPreston€1801One-way1 transfer- 8:12 AM2h38Cheltenham10:50 AMPreston€1801One-way1 transfer
- 9:12 AM2h38Cheltenham11:50 AMPreston€1801One-way1 transfer
- 10:12 AM2h38Cheltenham12:50 PMPreston€1801One-way1 transfer
- 11:12 AM2h38Cheltenham1:50 PMPreston€1801One-way1 transfer
- 7:14 AM2h36Cheltenham9:50 AMPreston€1801One-way1 transfer
- 8:12 AM2h38Cheltenham10:50 AMPreston€1801One-way1 transfer
- 9:12 AM2h38Cheltenham11:50 AMPreston€1801One-way1 transfer
- 10:12 AM2h38Cheltenham12:50 PMPreston€1801One-way1 transfer
- 11:12 AM2h38Cheltenham1:50 PMPreston€1801One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cheltenham to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cheltenham to Preston run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €45 but you can travel from only €18 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:25, the last at 20:40. The fastest train covers the 131 miles (212 km) distance in 2h 38m.
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 €18
Distance 131 miles (212 km) |
Average train duration 2h 24m |
Cheapest ticket price €45 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 38m |
First train 5:25 AM |
Last train 8:40 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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 €18
Live departures
Cheltenham to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Preston trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:14 AM Cheltenham | 2h36 | 9:50 AM Preston | 1 transfer | |
| 8:12 AM Cheltenham | 2h38 | 10:50 AM Preston | 1 transfer | |
| 9:12 AM Cheltenham | 2h38 | 11:50 AM Preston | 1 transfer | |
| 10:12 AM Cheltenham | 2h38 | 12:50 PM Preston | 1 transfer | |
| 11:12 AM Cheltenham | 2h38 | 1:50 PM Preston | 1 transfer | |
| 12:12 PM Cheltenham | 2h39 | 2:51 PM Preston | 1 transfer | |
| 1:12 PM Cheltenham | 2h38 | 3:50 PM Preston | 1 transfer | |
| 2:12 PM Cheltenham | 2h38 | 4:50 PM Preston | 1 transfer | |
| 3:12 PM Cheltenham | 2h40 | 5:52 PM Preston | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cheltenham to Preston trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Cross Country offer trains services from Cheltenham to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cheltenham 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 Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Cheltenham 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cheltenham to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cheltenham to Preston.
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Cross Country from Cheltenham to Preston trainsAvanti West Coast, Cross Country trains will get you between Cheltenham and Preston from €18. 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 Duration
2h 38m
Cheapest Price
€45
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
2h 36m
Cheapest Price
€180
Cross Country frequency
12 a day
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.
FAQs: Trains from Cheltenham to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham 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.
Train ticket prices from Cheltenham to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €45, while the average price is around €78.
The train from Cheltenham to Preston takes 2h 38m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cheltenham to Preston is 131 miles (212 km).
The first train from Cheltenham to Preston leaves at 5:25 AM.
The last train from Cheltenham to Preston leaves at 8:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cheltenham to Preston.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cheltenham to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cheltenham to Preston.
The train station in Cheltenham that goes to Preston is Cheltenham Spa (CNM), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The train journey from Cheltenham to Preston offers a mix of scenic views, including picturesque countryside landscapes, charming rural villages, and glimpses of the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, making it a pleasant visual experience for travelers.
Yes, you can take the train from Cheltenham to Preston.
Popular day trips by train from Preston include London, Bolton, Blackburn, Manchester, Lancaster.
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 Cheltenham to Preston
Most Cheltenham to Preston trains use the Cheltenham Spa to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cheltenham
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Cheltenham station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Cheltenham to Preston leave from Cheltenham Spa. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cheltenham city centre at Cheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom.
Cheltenham SpaCheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United Kingdom+44 345 165 2030
City-centre transport
Getting to Cheltenham Spa from Cheltenham city centre
Cheltenham Spa is 1 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:
BusD, E, G · 7m · €4 · every ~25 min
M1 · 8m
Cheltenham Spa train station facilities and services
Cheltenham Spa has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Railway Inn, The Coconut Tree
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham Spa. Information desks are located near the main entrance.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Cheltenham Spa. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cheltenham Spa: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham Spa: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Queens Hotel Cheltenham, DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham, Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham.
Which Preston station do trains from Cheltenham arrive at?
Trains from Cheltenham 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 · €9 · 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.
Most popular train connections from Cheltenham
More options for your journey from Cheltenham to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Cheltenham
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
