Chester to Manchester train with Northern Rail

Mon, Aug 03
+ Add return
Northern Rail
Transport for Wales
Avanti West Coast
Transport for Wales
Northern Trains Limited
2,000+ travel companies
Northern Rail
Transport for Wales
Avanti West Coast
Transport for Wales
Northern Trains Limited
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chester to Manchester

Showing times and prices for Aug 03

Cheapest price

$8

Average price

$17

Fastest journey

48 m

Average duration

52 m

Trains per day

24

Distance

54 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Chester to Manchester will cost around $17 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $8.

Fast trains

Of the 24 trains that leave Chester for Manchester on Mon, Aug 03, 15 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Aug 03 the direct trains cover the 54 km distance in an average of 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 48 m .

On Mon, Aug 03 the slowest trains will take 53 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 RailG89122
    12:26 PM0h52
    Chester station (CTR)
    1:18 PMManchester Victoria (MCV)
    $81One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern RailG89124
    1:25 PM0h53
    Chester station (CTR)
    2:18 PMManchester Victoria (MCV)
    $81One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern RailG89116
    9:27 AM0h52
    Chester station (CTR)
    10:19 AMManchester Victoria (MCV)
    $81One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern RailL89009
    5:56 AM1h30
    Chester station (CTR)
    7:26 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $81One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern RailL89054
    12:56 PM1h29
    Chester station (CTR)
    2:25 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $101One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chester to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Chester to Manchester run on average 11 times per day, taking around 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $4 if you book in advance.

There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 33 miles (54 km) distance in 51m.

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
Distance
33 miles (54 km)
Average train duration
59m
Cheapest ticket price
$4
Trains per day
11
Direct trains
7
Fastest train
51m
First train
12:05 AM
Last train
11:58 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
7 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

Live departures

Chester to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Chester to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for WalesW437895:02 AM Chester station (CTR)
0h48
5:50 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38658+Avanti West CoastW34222
On time
5:27 AM Chester station (CTR)
1h16
6:43 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG385065:52 AM Chester station (CTR)
0h58
6:50 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailL890095:56 AM Chester station (CTR)
1h30
7:26 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38682+Northern RailL890665:59 AM Chester station (CTR)
1h41
7:40 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38682 · G389435:59 AM Chester station (CTR)
2h14
8:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Northern RailG891138:20 AM Chester station (CTR)
0h58
9:18 AM Manchester Victoria (MCV)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG385148:52 AM Chester station (CTR)
0h58
9:50 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailL890348:56 AM Chester station (CTR)
1h29
10:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38690 · G389458:58 AM Chester station (CTR)
1h15
10:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Northern RailG891169:27 AM Chester station (CTR)
0h52
10:19 AM Manchester Victoria (MCV)0 transfersDirect
Avanti West CoastW34249 · W342739:32 AM Chester station (CTR)
1h12
10:44 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Northern RailG8912212:26 PM Chester station (CTR)
0h52
1:18 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV)0 transfersDirect
Avanti West CoastW33934 · W33931
On time
12:32 PM Chester station (CTR)
1h12
1:44 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG3852312:52 PM Chester station (CTR)
0h58
1:50 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailL8905412:56 PM Chester station (CTR)
1h29
2:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38698 · G3897512:58 PM Chester station (CTR)
1h15
2:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Northern RailG891241:25 PM Chester station (CTR)
0h53
2:18 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG891386:23 PM Chester station (CTR)
0h55
7:18 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG89138 · G899746:23 PM Chester station (CTR)
1h32
7:55 PM Deansgate (DGT)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG385356:52 PM Chester station (CTR)
0h58
7:50 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailL890356:56 PM Chester station (CTR)
1h29
8:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38712 · G389996:58 PM Chester station (CTR)
1h15
8:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Northern RailG891407:25 PM Chester station (CTR)
0h53
8:18 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV)0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Chester to Manchester trains with Omio?

Northern Rail as well as Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Chester to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chester to Manchester.

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 Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Chester 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 Northern Rail with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chester to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Trip, Wanderu or Raileurope?

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

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Chester to Manchester?

The best time to book your train from Chester to Manchester is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Chester to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Chester to Manchester per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Chester to Manchester.

Train companies: Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited from Chester to Manchester trainsNorthern Rail, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Chester and Manchester from $4. 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
51m
Cheapest Price
$4
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

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 Duration
56m
Cheapest Price
$17
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

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
1h 12m
Cheapest Price
$150
Avanti West Coast frequency
9 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

Northern Trains Limited

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
51m
Cheapest Price
$12
Northern Trains Limited frequency
11 a day

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 Chester to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chester 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 Chester to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $4, while the average price is around $12.
The train from Chester to Manchester takes 51m and runs 11 per day.
The distance by train from Chester to Manchester is 33 miles (54 km).
The first train from Chester to Manchester leaves at 12:05 AM.
The last train from Chester to Manchester leaves at 11:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chester to Manchester.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chester to Manchester. This service operates 7 times per day, provided by Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, Transport for Wales, Northern Trains Limited.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chester to Manchester.
The train station in Chester that goes to Manchester is Chester station (CTR), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The train journey from Chester to Manchester offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with sights of the Cheshire countryside, fields, and small towns, providing a pleasant but not particularly dramatic scenic experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Chester to Manchester.
Popular day trips by train from Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Stockport.
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 Chester to Manchester

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

Departure train stations in Chester
Arrival train stations in Manchester

Which Chester station do trains to Manchester leave from?

Trains from Chester to Manchester leave from Chester. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Chester city centre at Chester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS.
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Chester from Chester city centre

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

Bus100, 16 · 4m · $5 · every ~2 min

Chester train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Chester.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Chester.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, 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 Chester: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, 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.

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