Croydon to Manchester train with Avanti West Coast

Sat, Sep 19
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
London North Eastern Railway
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
London North Eastern Railway
Thameslink
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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 Croydon to Manchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19

Cheapest price on Sep 19

$89

Average ticket price on Sep 19

$99

Fastest journey on Sep 19

3 h 4 m

Average journey duration on Sep 19

3 h 21 m

Trains on Sep 19

5

Distance

275 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Croydon to Manchester will cost around $99 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $89.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Croydon to Manchester without transferring at least once.

  • TubeTube from London Bridge to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33711+London OvergroundL11954+ThameslinkC02581
    5:46 AM3h33
    West Croydon (WCY)
    9:19 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $891One-way
    3 transfers
  • Avanti West CoastW33711+ThameslinkC02601
    5:40 AM3h39
    East Croydon (ECR)
    9:19 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $891One-way
    1 transfer
  • ThameslinkG28269+TubeTube from London Bridge to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33675
    12:51 PM3h14
    East Croydon (ECR)
    4:05 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1041One-way
    2 transfers
  • TubeTube from London Bridge to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33761+ThameslinkW45715
    12:31 PM3h13
    East Croydon (ECR)
    3:44 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1041One-way
    2 transfers
  • TubeTube from London Victoria to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33697+SouthernG88409
    12:15 PM3h04
    East Croydon (ECR)
    3:19 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1081One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Croydon to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Croydon to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $19 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 26m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, while a flight costs an average of $346.

Distance: 170 miles (275 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$140

Average price

$19

Average price

Cheapest

$346

Average price

$107

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 26m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 20m

Average total duration

4h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 48m

Average total duration

1h 48m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

4h 33m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Avanti West Coast

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

British Airways

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Croydon to Manchester is a bus with an average price of $19.

This is compared to other travel options from Croydon to Manchester:

A bus is $121 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Croydon to Manchester costing on average $140.

A bus is $327 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Croydon to Manchester costing on average $346.

The fastest way to travel from Croydon to Manchester is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 48m.

Other travel options to Manchester take longer:

Train takes on average 2h 56m.

Bus takes on average 4h 50m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Croydon and Manchester including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Croydon to Manchester 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 1h 37m sooner (2h 56m by train vs 4h 33m by car). Tickets start at around $140 compared to roughly $107 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

Croydon to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Croydon to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ThameslinkC02601+Avanti West CoastW337115:40 AM East Croydon (ECR)
3h39
9:19 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
ThameslinkC02581+TubeTube from London Bridge to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33711+London OvergroundL119545:46 AM West Croydon (WCY)
3h33
9:19 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)3 transfers
TubeTube from London Victoria to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW33697+SouthernG8840912:15 PM East Croydon (ECR)
3h04
3:19 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers
ThameslinkW45715+TubeTube from London Bridge to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW3376112:31 PM East Croydon (ECR)
3h13
3:44 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers
ThameslinkG28269+TubeTube from London Bridge to London Euston+Avanti West CoastW3367512:51 PM East Croydon (ECR)
3h14
4:05 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Croydon to Manchester by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight 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.

Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25

Why should you book Croydon to Manchester trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as London North Eastern Railway or Thameslink offer trains services from Croydon to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Croydon to Manchester.

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 London North Eastern Railway or Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Croydon 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Croydon to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway or Thameslink to find the best option for your trip from Croydon to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Croydon to Manchester.

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

The best time to book your train from Croydon to Manchester is 84 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Croydon to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Croydon 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 Croydon to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Croydon to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Croydon to Manchester run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 56m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $86 but you can travel from only $12 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 22:45. The fastest train covers the 170 miles (275 km) distance in 2h 32m.

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 $12
Distance
170 miles (275 km)
Average train duration
2h 56m
Cheapest ticket price
$86
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
2h 32m
First train
12:04 AM
Last train
10:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
84 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 $12

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway from Croydon to Manchester trainsAvanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway trains will get you between Croydon and Manchester from $12. 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 Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 32m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$86
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 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

East Midlands Railway

About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average East Midlands Railway Duration
3h 28m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$313
East Midlands Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
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 Croydon to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Croydon 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 Croydon to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $86, while the average price is around $140.
The train from Croydon to Manchester takes 2h 32m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Croydon to Manchester leaves at 12:04 AM.
The distance by train from Croydon to Manchester is 170 miles (275 km).
The last train from Croydon to Manchester leaves at 10:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Croydon to Manchester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Croydon to Manchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Croydon to Manchester.
The train station in Croydon that goes to Manchester is East Croydon (ECR), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Croydon to Manchester is by bus, with a cost of around $12.
The train journey from Croydon to Manchester offers varied scenery with urban landscapes transitioning to the picturesque English countryside, including views of charming villages, rolling hills, and farmlands, particularly as the route progresses towards the north.
A day trip from Croydon to Manchester is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 32m. However, trains run 3 times per day for this 170 miles (275 km) journey.
In Manchester, you can explore Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, with its tours and museum. Discover the Northern Quarter, known for its independent shops and street art, or enjoy a captivating performance at the Manchester Opera House. For nightlife, check out Deansgate Locks' bars and clubs. Spend a relaxing day at Heaton Park, one of Europe's largest municipal parks. Visit the Manchester Art Gallery, Science and Industry Museum, and see the stunning architecture of Manchester Cathedral. The John Rylands Library offers a look at rare manuscripts, while Castlefield invites leisurely strolls through its historic ruins and canals.
To fully experience Manchester, including its cultural landmarks, museums, and vibrant nightlife, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Croydon to Manchester.
Since neither Croydon nor Manchester 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 Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Croydon to Manchester 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 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 Croydon to Manchester

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

Departure train stations in Croydon
Arrival train stations in Manchester

Which Croydon station do trains to Manchester leave from?

Trains from Croydon to Manchester leave from East Croydon. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Croydon city centre at East Croydon station, Station Approach, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 1LF.
East CroydonEast Croydon station, Station Approach, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 1LFWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to East Croydon from Croydon city centre

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

BusN68 · 11m · $2 · every ~2 min

East Croydon train station facilities and services

East Croydon 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, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at East Croydon.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at East Croydon. ATMs are available at East Croydon.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at East Croydon.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at East Croydon: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at East Croydon: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at East Croydon: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free access to all platforms. Lifts to overbridge from all platforms and side entrance. Long steep ramps to platforms from main entrance. (over 1:10 gradient). Assistance Meeting Point is the Information Point on station concourse, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

South CroydonSouth Croydon station, Blunt Road, Croydon, Greater London, CR2 7PAWifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to South Croydon from Croydon city centre

South Croydon is 2 km from Croydon city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLondon Bridge - Caterham, London Bridge - South Croydon, Tulse Hill - Caterham, London Bridge - Tattenham Corner, London Victoria - East Grinstead, London Victoria - Oxted, London Bridge - Purley, East Croydon - South Croydon, East Croydon - Caterham, London Victoria - Horsham · 2m · $1 · every ~5 min
London Bridge - Caterham, London Bridge - Tattenham Corner, London Bridge - South Croydon, Tulse Hill - Caterham · 7m · $1
Bus403 · 16m · $2 · every ~19 min
N68 · 16m · $2 · every ~2 min
60 · 19m · $2 · every ~24 min

South Croydon train station facilities and services

South Croydon has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at South Croydon.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at South Croydon.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at South Croydon.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at South Croydon: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at South Croydon: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at South Croydon: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: This is a Category C station: This station does not have step-free access. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Southern ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

West CroydonWest Croydon station, London Road, Croydon, Greater London, CR0 2TAWifiShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to West Croydon from Croydon city centre

Bus289 · 4m · $2 · every ~20 min
450 · 5m · $2 · every ~22 min
157 · 7m · $2 · every ~20 min

West Croydon train station facilities and services

West Croydon has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at West Croydon.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at West Croydon.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at West Croydon.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at West Croydon: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at West Croydon: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at West Croydon: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: B2 station category. Step free access available for platform 1 and 3 using the London Road car park entrance . This side gate is kept locked but has help buttons to request use. Step-free access via separate entrance to platform 4 (to Sutton), Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Most popular train connections from Croydon

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