- Must visit
Science and Industry Museum
Major museum on the site of the world’s oldest surviving passenger railway station, covering Manchester’s industrial, scientific and computing heritage.
Cheapest price
$161
Average price
$168
Fastest journey
7 h 36 m
Average duration
7 h 50 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
462 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Inverness to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Inverness to Manchester will cost around $168 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $161.
Of the 4 trains that leave Inverness for Manchester on Mon, Jun 01, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 01 the direct trains cover the 462 km distance in an average of 7 h 50 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 36 m .
On Mon, Jun 01 the slowest trains will take 8 h 28 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.








Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Inverness to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 24m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $22, and a flight costs an average of $107.
Distance: 287 miles (462 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$155 Average price | $58 Average price Cheapest | $251 Average price | $135 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 33m Average total duration 7h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 51m Average total duration 8h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 24m Average total duration Fastest 1h 24m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 2.8kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Inverness to Manchester:
A bus is $97 (€78) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Inverness to Manchester costing on average $155 (€124).
A bus is $193 (€155) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Inverness to Manchester costing on average $251 (€202).
Other travel options to Manchester take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 3m.
Bus takes on average 8h 21m.
Tickets start at around $155 (€124) compared to roughly $135 (€109) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-19.61 (€-15.79). The journey takes 7h 3m versus 6h 50m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Inverness to Manchester trains for today, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
C02012+ W84917 | On time 9:40 AM Inverness station (INV) | 7h40 | 5:20 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO) | 1 transfer | |
L87058+ W84917 | On time 10:52 AM Inverness station (INV) | 6h28 | 5:20 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO) | 1 transfer | |
L87058+ W84716+ C02045 | On time 10:52 AM Inverness station (INV) | 8h16 | 7:08 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2 transfers | |
L87058+ C01020+ C02045+ G89097 | On time 10:52 AM Inverness station (INV) | 8h08 | 7:00 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV) | 3 transfers | |
C14657+ S78029+ W84926 | On time 1:25 PM Inverness station (INV) | 6h55 | 8:20 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO) | 2 transfers | |
C14657+ G89368+ K61961 | On time 1:25 PM Inverness station (INV) | 8h36 | 10:01 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV) | 2 transfers | |
C14657+ G89258+ G80090+ G89017 | On time 1:25 PM Inverness station (INV) | 8h07 | 9:32 PM Manchester Victoria (MCV) | 3 transfers | |
L87059+ G15790 | On time 3:21 PM Inverness station (INV) | 7h58 | 11:19 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO) | 1 transfer | |
L88082 · W83074+ G15790 | On time 4:25 PM Inverness station (INV) | 6h54 | 11:19 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Inverness to Manchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 7h 3m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $89 (€72) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 287 miles (462 km) distance in 7h 27m.
Distance 287 miles (462 km) |
Average train duration 7h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price $89 (€72) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 7h 27m |
First train 12:04 AM |
Last train 11:56 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 days |
Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.
Major museum on the site of the world’s oldest surviving passenger railway station, covering Manchester’s industrial, scientific and computing heritage.
University museum with renowned collections in natural history, archaeology and world cultures, recently redeveloped and widely praised.
Popular museum telling the story of football through trophies, memorabilia and interactive displays in the city centre.
Manchester’s best-known creative district, packed with street art, independent shops and a strong music and nightlife identity.
Canal-side conservation area with Roman roots, converted warehouses, bridges and some of the city’s most atmospheric walks.
Famous street in the Gay Village, known for cultural significance, nightlife and role in modern Manchester identity.
A classic Manchester dessert with a shortcrust pastry shell, raspberry jam, custard, coconut, and a cherry on top. It is one of the city’s best-known traditional sweet treats.
A famous Greater Manchester pastry made with flaky pastry filled with currants, butter, and sugar. It is strongly associated with the Manchester area and widely loved across the North West.
A traditional Lancashire and Greater Manchester snack of slow-cooked black badger peas, often served with vinegar. It is a simple local street-food style dish with deep regional roots.
A highly regarded steak and British seafood restaurant set in a former courthouse. It is known for excellent ingredients, strong service, and a smart but relaxed atmosphere.
A popular casual spot for Indian street food and craft beer, known for flavorful vegetarian dishes and a lively atmosphere near the city centre.
A celebrated fine dining restaurant in central Manchester, known for refined modern British cooking and polished service in an elegant historic setting.
Generally cheaper than London. Hotels vary by match days and events, while food, transport, and pubs are mid-priced.
Service charge is uncommon outside upscale venues. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is appreciated for good service. Round up taxis. No tip is expected for pubs, takeaways, or counter service.
Official public transport app
Manchester Piccadilly -> Manchester Victoria
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Inverness 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.

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