- 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.
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
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Harwich to Manchester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Harwich to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $79. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 57m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $79, and a flight costs an average of $76.
Distance: 181 miles (292 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$111 Average price Cheapest | $113 Average price | $79 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 21m Average total duration 3h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 57m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 34m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Harwich to Manchester is a train with an average price of $111.
This is compared to other travel options from Harwich to Manchester:
A train is $2 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Harwich to Manchester costing on average $113.
The fastest way to travel from Harwich to Manchester is by flight with an average journey time of 57m.
Other travel options to Manchester take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 51m.
Bus takes on average 11h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Harwich and Manchester including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Harwich 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 43m sooner (3h 51m by train vs 4h 34m by car). Tickets start at around $111 compared to roughly $79 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.
Compare prices and tickets Harwich to Manchester by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11
Aug 11
Why should you book Harwich to Manchester trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast operates all trains services from Harwich to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Harwich to Manchester.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Harwich to Manchester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Harwich to Manchester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Harwich to Manchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Harwich to Manchester run on average 13 times per day, taking around 3h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $79 but you can travel from only $76 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 20:45. The fastest train covers the 181 miles (292 km) distance in 4h 13m.
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
Flight from $76
Distance 181 miles (292 km) |
Average train duration 3h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $79 |
Trains per day 13 |
Fastest train 4h 13m |
First train 12:07 AM |
Last train 8:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $76
Train companies: Avanti West Coast from Harwich to Manchester trainsAvanti West Coast trains will get you between Harwich and Manchester from $76. 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
4h 13m
Cheapest Price
$79
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
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
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.
- Must visit
Castlefield
Historic canal-side district with Roman remains, warehouses, and walkable towpaths. One of Manchester's most atmospheric urban areas.
- Must visit
Albert Square
Central square framed by grand civic buildings, museums, and monuments. A classic starting point for exploring the city centre.
- Must visit
Northern Quarter
Creative quarter of street art, music history, indie shops, and nightlife. It is one of Manchester's most characterful neighborhoods.
- Vegetarian
Manchester Curry Pie
A flaky pastry pie filled with spiced potatoes, onion and often chickpeas. Created by Manchester’s South Asian community and now a city staple.
Steak and Onion Pudding
A comforting Northern pudding of suet pastry filled with beef and onion, traditionally steamed and served with gravy. Common in Greater Manchester pubs.
Fish and Chips
Manchester’s classic order of battered fish with chips, often served with mushy peas and curry sauce. A long-standing local takeaway favourite.
Slattery
Iconic market bakery and café known for Manchester tarts, Eccles cakes and hearty lunches. Casual, busy and deeply rooted in local food culture.
Mana
Refined modern British fine dining in a restored townhouse. Known for tasting menus, polished service and one of Manchester’s top culinary reputations.
Mughli
Lively Indian restaurant famous for bold curries, grills and chaat. A long-established Rusholme favourite with a casual, energetic atmosphere.
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 Harwich to Manchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Harwich 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.
Train ticket prices from Harwich to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $79, while the average price is around $111.
The train from Harwich to Manchester takes 4h 13m and runs 13 per day.
The distance by train from Harwich to Manchester is 181 miles (292 km).
The first train from Harwich to Manchester leaves at 12:07 AM.
The last train from Harwich to Manchester leaves at 8:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Harwich to Manchester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Harwich to Manchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Harwich to Manchester.
The train station in Harwich that goes to Manchester is Harwich International (HPQ), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Harwich to Manchester is by flight, with a cost of around $76.
The train journey from Harwich to Manchester offers varied scenery, beginning with coastal views near Harwich, passing through picturesque countryside in Essex and Suffolk, and transitioning to urban landscapes as it approaches Manchester.
A day trip from Harwich to Manchester is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 13m, which exceeds the 120-minute limit for a day trip. The distance is 181 miles (292 km), with trains running 12 times per day.
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 Harwich to Manchester.
Since neither Harwich 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 Harwich 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 Harwich to Manchester
Most Harwich to Manchester trains use the Harwich International to Manchester Piccadilly station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester Victoria. Use this guide to compare Harwich and Manchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Harwich
Arrival train stations in Manchester
Which Harwich station do trains to Manchester leave from?
Trains from Harwich to Manchester leave from Harwich International. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Harwich city centre at Harwich International station, Parkeston Quay, Harwich, Essex, CO12 4SR.
Harwich InternationalHarwich International station, Parkeston Quay, Harwich, Essex, CO12 4SR
City-centre transport
Getting to Harwich International from Harwich city centre
Harwich International is 2 km from Harwich city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainHarwich Town - Manningtree, Harwich Town - Colchester, Harwich Town - London Liverpool Street · 5m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus22 · 24m · $4 · every ~3 min
22 · 25m · $4 · every ~3 min
Harwich International train station facilities and services
Harwich International has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Harwich International. ATMs are available at Harwich International.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Harwich International: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Harwich International: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Harwich International: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: No, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
DovercourtDovercourt station, Kingsway, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3AG+44 8456007245
City-centre transport
Getting to Dovercourt from Harwich city centre
TrainHarwich Town - Manningtree, Harwich Town - Colchester, Harwich Town - London Liverpool Street · 1m · $1 · every ~2 min
Bus3, 22 · 2m · $4 · every ~6 min
Dovercourt train station facilities and services
Dovercourt has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Dovercourt.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dovercourt.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dovercourt: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Dovercourt: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dovercourt: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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.
Harwich TownHarwich Town station, George Street, Harwich, Essex, CO12 3NA
City-centre transport
Getting to Harwich Town from Harwich city centre
Onward travel informationLocal Bus services from station forecourt
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesReplacement transport stop at the front of the station by the bus stop
Harwich Town train station facilities and services
Harwich Town has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Harwich Town.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Harwich Town.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Harwich Town: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Harwich Town: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Harwich Town: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, 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.
Which Manchester station do trains from Harwich arrive at?
Trains from Harwich to Manchester most often arrive at Manchester Piccadilly. Some services arrive at Manchester Victoria, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Manchester arrival station.
Manchester PiccadillyPiccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Piccadilly from Manchester city centre
Bus201, 203, 202, 205 · 1m · $2 · every ~56 min
TramBlue Line, Red Line, Pink Line, Purple Line, Yellow Line · 3m · $2 · every ~47 min
Manchester Piccadilly train station facilities and services
Manchester Piccadilly has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Burger King, Caffè Nero, Carluccio’s, Hotel Chocolat, Starbucks, The Pasty Shop, Costa Coffee, Pret a Manger, Upper Crust, McDonald's, & more
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi. ATMs are there are ATM machines on the main concourse, Platform 10 and on the mezzanine level.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30, Sun: 07:00 - 22:30. Information desks are located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Piccadilly: There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly, Premier Inn Manchester City, Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly.
Manchester VictoriaManchester Victoria station, Station Approach, Todd Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 1WY
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Victoria from Manchester city centre
TrainManchester Airport - Redcar Central, Manchester Airport - Saltburn, Manchester Airport - York, Manchester Piccadilly - York, Manchester Piccadilly - Redcar Central, Manchester Airport - Darlington, Manchester Airport - Sheffield, Liverpool Lime Street - Manchester Victoria, Manchester Airport - Scarborough, Manchester Airport - Hull, Manchester Airport - Huddersfield, Manchester Airport - Middlesbrough, Manchester Airport - Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester Airport - Leeds, Manchester Airport - Manchester Victoria · 10m · $1 · every ~3 min
Bus41, 135 · 5m · $2 · every ~32 min
T1 · 10m
X43 · 29m · every ~1 min
TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 5m · $2 · every ~23 min
Manchester Victoria train station facilities and services
Manchester Victoria has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Victoria.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Victoria.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Victoria: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Scooter Friendly Station - Step free access around the whole station via use of lifts between platforms 3-6, connection with Manchester Metrolink using ramps, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards Located near the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Manchester AirportManchester Airport station, Malaga Avenue, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M90 3RR
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester Airport is 13 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · $6 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · $1 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · $2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · $2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · $5 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · $5 · every ~8 min
Manchester Airport train station facilities and services
Manchester Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Airport.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Manchester Airport. ATMs are available at Manchester Airport.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Airport. Information desks are information available from staff: ,Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 107 2149, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Airport: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Airport: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Airport: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: re Step free access is provided from the Ground Transport Interchange to all platforms via lifts or ramps. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance from Meeting Point 1 (adjacent to the Station Booking Office) and throughout the railway station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Customers requiring assistance should make themselves known to station staff no less than 20 minutes prior to the departure time of their train. Customers requiring assistance to access other services or to connect with terminals should request this from their airline or Manchester Airport Group. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay). Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible public telephones: In the station cafe on platforms 2 and 3, 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.
Most popular train connections from Harwich
More options for your journey from Harwich to Manchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Manchester and Harwich
Most popular train connections to Manchester
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.
