Darlington to Manchester train with Transpennine Express

Mon, Aug 03
+ Add return
Transpennine Express
Northern Rail
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER)
Cross Country
TransPennine Express
2,000+ travel companies
Transpennine Express
Northern Rail
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER)
Cross Country
TransPennine Express
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Darlington to Manchester

Showing times and prices for Aug 03

Cheapest price

$30

Average price

$49

Fastest journey

1 h 43 m

Average duration

2 h 4 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

124 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Darlington to Manchester will cost around $49 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Darlington for Manchester on Mon, Aug 03, 6 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 124 km distance in an average of 2 h 4 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 43 m .

On Mon, Aug 03 the slowest trains will take 2 h 33 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.

  • CrossCountry
    9:11 AM1h58
    Darlington
    11:09 AMManchester
    $301One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transpennine Express
    8:15 AM3h01
    Darlington
    11:16 AMManchester
    $351One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transpennine Express
    10:36 PM2h33
    Darlington
    1:09 AMManchester
    $521One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transpennine Express
    8:35 AM2h10
    Darlington
    10:45 AMManchester
    $561One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transpennine Express
    8:11 AM1h58
    Darlington
    10:09 AMManchester
    $591One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Darlington to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Darlington to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $6. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 8m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $6, and a train costs an average of $13.

Distance: 77 miles (124 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$51

Average price

$19

Average price

Cheapest

$37

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 38m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 20m

Average total duration

2h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 9m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Transpennine Express

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Darlington to Manchester is a bus with an average price of $19 (€16).

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

A bus is $31 (€26) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Darlington to Manchester costing on average $51 (€41).

The fastest way to travel from Darlington to Manchester is by train with an average journey time of 2h 8m.

Other travel options to Manchester take longer:

Bus takes on average 2h 50m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Darlington and Manchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Darlington 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 1m sooner (2h 8m by train vs 2h 9m by car). Tickets start at around $51 (€41) compared to roughly $37 (€30) 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.

Direct services run with TransPennine Express.

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

Darlington to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Darlington 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
Transpennine Express8:11 AM Darlington
1h58
10:09 AM Manchester0 transfersDirect
Transpennine Express8:15 AM Darlington
3h01
11:16 AM Manchester0 transfersDirect
Transpennine Express8:35 AM Darlington
2h10
10:45 AM Manchester0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry9:11 AM Darlington
1h58
11:09 AM Manchester0 transfersDirect
Transpennine Express9:35 AM Darlington
1h43
11:18 AM Manchester0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Darlington to Manchester 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.

Mon
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09

Why should you book Darlington to Manchester trains with Omio?

Transpennine Express as well as Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Cross Country, TransPennine Express and more offer trains services from Darlington to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Darlington to Manchester.

Why book with Omio vs Transpennine Express?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transpennine Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Cross Country or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Darlington 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 Transpennine Express with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Darlington to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trip?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Cross Country or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Darlington to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Darlington to Manchester.

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

The best time to book your train from Darlington to Manchester is 21 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Darlington to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Darlington 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 Darlington to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Darlington to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Darlington to Manchester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $13 (€11) but you can travel from only $6 (€5) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 77 miles (124 km) distance in 1h 43m.

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 $6 (€5)
Distance
77 miles (124 km)
Average train duration
2h 8m
Cheapest ticket price
$13 (€11)
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
1h 43m
First train
12:06 AM
Last train
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Apr - Jun
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
14 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 $6 (€5)

Train companies: Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Cross Country, TransPennine Express from Darlington to Manchester trainsTranspennine Express, Northern Rail, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), Cross Country, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Darlington and Manchester from $6 (€5). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Transpennine Express

About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 43m
Cheapest Price
$13 (€11)
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

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
2h 26m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€34)
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

London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 1m
Cheapest Price
$134 (€109)
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) frequency
7 a day

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 45m
Cheapest Price
$127 (€103)
Cross Country frequency
6 a day

TransPennine Express

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 43m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€50)
TransPennine Express frequency
12 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 Darlington to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Darlington 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 Darlington to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $13 (€11), while the average price is around $51 (€41).
The train from Darlington to Manchester takes 1h 43m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Darlington to Manchester is 77 miles (124 km).
The first train from Darlington to Manchester leaves at 12:06 AM.
The last train from Darlington to Manchester leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Darlington to Manchester.
Yes, there is a direct train from Darlington to Manchester. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by TransPennine Express.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Darlington to Manchester.
The train station in Darlington that goes to Manchester is Darlington station (DAR), which connects to Manchester Victoria (MCV).
The cheapest way to get from Darlington to Manchester is by bus, with a cost of around $6 (€5).
The train journey from Darlington to Manchester offers a mix of urban and countryside views, including glimpses of the Pennines, making it moderately scenic.
A day trip from Darlington to Manchester is feasible as the journey takes 1h 43m each way and the distance is 77 miles (124 km). With trains running 5 times per day, you can conveniently travel between the two cities.
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 Darlington to Manchester.
Since neither Darlington 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Darlington 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 Darlington to Manchester

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

Departure train stations in Darlington
Arrival train stations in Manchester

Which Darlington station do trains to Manchester leave from?

Trains from Darlington to Manchester leave from Darlington. The station is from Darlington city centre at Darlington station, Bank Top, Darlington, County Durham, DL1 4AA.
DarlingtonDarlington station, Bank Top, Darlington, County Durham, DL1 4AAShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Darlington from Darlington city centre

Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement coach services depart from the station entrance

Darlington train station facilities and services

Darlington has practical services for this route, including 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 Darlington.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Darlington.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Darlington.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Darlington: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Darlington: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Darlington: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: text phones are available and staff are on hand to assist as required due to no low level phones, Accessible taxis: Generally available but advance booking recommended, 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.

North RoadNorth Road (Darlington) station, Station Road, Darlington, County Durham, DL3 6STParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to North Road from Darlington city centre

North Road is 1 km from Darlington city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainDarlington - Bishop Auckland, Saltburn - Bishop Auckland · 3m · $1 · every ~2 min

North Road train station facilities and services

North Road has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at North Road.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at North Road: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at North Road: Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at North Road: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category C Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - Station is unstaffed there are 2 entrances to the staton, one is via steep steps 11 in total, the other is via a stepped ramps and about 40-50 metres in length, 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.

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