Cheltenham to Preston train with Avanti West Coast

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Cheltenham to Preston

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$220

Average price

$220

Fastest journey

2 h 39 m

Average duration

2 h 39 m

Trains per day

10

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 $220 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $220.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cheltenham to Preston without transferring at least once.

  • Cross Country
    10:11 AM2h40
    Cheltenham
    12:51 PMPreston
    $2201One-way
    1 transfer
  • Cross Country
    11:11 AM2h39
    Cheltenham
    1:50 PMPreston
    $2201One-way
    1 transfer
  • Cross Country
    12:11 PM2h39
    Cheltenham
    2:50 PMPreston
    $2201One-way
    1 transfer
  • Cross Country
    1:11 PM2h40
    Cheltenham
    3:51 PMPreston
    $2201One-way
    1 transfer
  • Cross Country
    2:11 PM2h40
    Cheltenham
    4:51 PMPreston
    $2201One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cheltenham to Preston

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cheltenham to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 24m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a train costs an average of $55.

Distance: 131 miles (212 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$95

Average price

$29

Average price

Cheapest

$55

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 54m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 24m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 2m

Average total duration

6h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 55m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cheltenham to Preston is a bus with an average price of $29 (€23).

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

A bus is $67 (€55) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cheltenham to Preston costing on average $95 (€78).

The fastest way to travel from Cheltenham to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 2h 24m.

Other travel options to Preston take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 32m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cheltenham and Preston including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham to Preston among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 31m sooner (2h 24m by train vs 2h 55m by car). Tickets start at around $95 (€78) compared to roughly $55 (€45) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cheltenham to Preston train times

The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Preston trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Cross Country10:11 AM Cheltenham
2h40
12:51 PM Preston1 transfer
Cross Country11:11 AM Cheltenham
2h39
1:50 PM Preston1 transfer
Cross Country12:11 PM Cheltenham
2h39
2:50 PM Preston1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cheltenham to Preston by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cheltenham to Preston

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cheltenham to Preston run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 24m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $55 (€45) but you can travel from only $22 (€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 $22 (€18)
Distance
131 miles (212 km)
Average train duration
2h 24m
Cheapest ticket price
$55 (€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 $22 (€18)

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 $22 (€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
$55 (€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
$220 (€180)
Cross Country frequency
12 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cheltenham to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $55 (€45), while the average price is around $95 (€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 cheapest way to get from Cheltenham to Preston is by bus, with a cost of around $22 (€18).
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.
A day trip from Cheltenham to Preston is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 38m. Trains run 6 times per day.
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 Cheltenham to Preston.
Since neither Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham 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 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 2030WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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 · $5 · 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.

More options for your journey from Cheltenham to Preston

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone