- Must visit
The Harris
Preston's leading museum and gallery, known for fine art, history, and architecture. A cornerstone cultural attraction in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Inverness to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$85
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$176
Fastest journey on Sep 19
6 h 26 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
7 h 5 m
Trains on Sep 19
4
Distance
423 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Inverness to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Inverness to Preston will cost around $176 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $85.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 4 trains from Inverness to Preston, including 4 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct trains cover the 423 km distance in an average of 7 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 6 h 26 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest trains will take 8 h 48 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.
7:42 AM6h33Inverness2:15 PMPreston$851One-way0 transfers- 8:42 AM6h33Inverness3:15 PMPreston$1421One-way0 transfers
- 10:50 AM6h26Inverness5:16 PMPreston$1851One-way0 transfers
- 9:50 AM8h48Inverness6:38 PMPreston$2911One-way0 transfers
- 10:50 AM6h26Inverness5:16 PMPreston$1851One-way0 transfers
- 8:42 AM6h33Inverness3:15 PMPreston$1421One-way0 transfers
- 7:42 AM6h33Inverness2:15 PMPreston$851One-way0 transfers
- 9:50 AM8h48Inverness6:38 PMPreston$2911One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Inverness to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Inverness to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $167 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 4h 46m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $167, while a flight costs an average of $584.
Distance: 262 miles (423 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$167 Average price Cheapest | $584 Average price | $122 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
6h 40m Average total duration 6h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 46m Average total duration Fastest 2h 46m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 2m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Inverness to Preston is a train with an average price of $167.
This is compared to other travel options from Inverness to Preston:
A train is $417 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Inverness to Preston costing on average $584.
The fastest way to travel from Inverness to Preston is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 46m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 10m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Inverness and Preston including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Inverness to Preston among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $167 compared to roughly $122 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-44.93. The journey takes 6h 10m versus 6h 2m 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.
Live departures
Inverness to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Inverness to Preston trains for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
C14813 · W83006+ W33801 | On time 2:50 PM Inverness station (INV) | 6h26 | 9:16 PM Preston station (PRE) | 2 transfers | |
L88101+ Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central+W34026 | On time 3:44 PM Inverness station (INV) | 6h53 | 10:37 PM Preston station (PRE) | 2 transfers | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| 7:42 AM Inverness | 6h33 | 2:15 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:42 AM Inverness | 6h33 | 3:15 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:50 AM Inverness | 8h48 | 6:38 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:50 AM Inverness | 6h26 | 5:16 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Inverness to Preston 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 20
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Sep 21
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Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Inverness to Preston trains with Omio?
Scotrail as well as Caledonian Sleeper, London North Eastern Railway, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), ScotRail and more offer trains services from Inverness to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Inverness to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Scotrail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper, London North Eastern Railway, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) or ScotRail to find the best option for your trip from Inverness to Preston.
- 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 Scotrail with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Inverness to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper, London North Eastern Railway, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) or ScotRail to find the best option for your trip from Inverness to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Inverness to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Inverness to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Inverness to Preston run on average 4 times per day, taking around 6h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $61 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:20, the last at 20:45. The fastest train covers the 262 miles (423 km) distance in 5h 31m.
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 262 miles (423 km) |
Average train duration 6h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $61 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 5h 31m |
First train 12:20 AM |
Last train 8:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Train companies: Scotrail, Lumo, London North Eastern Railway, Caledonian Sleeper from Inverness to Preston trainsScotrail, Lumo, London North Eastern Railway, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Inverness and Preston from $61. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Scotrail
About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Scotrail Duration
5h 31m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
$107
Scotrail frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
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 catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone
Lumo
About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
5h 52m
Cheapest Lumo Price
$61
Lumo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
Quiet zone
London North Eastern Railway
About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
5h 42m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$76
London North Eastern Railway frequency
1 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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
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 pets per passenger
Quiet zone
Caledonian Sleeper
About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Caledonian Sleeper Duration
7h 30m
Cheapest Caledonian Sleeper Price
$155
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Lancashire
Museum of Lancashire history with social, military, and industrial displays. A strong introduction to the county's people and stories.
- Recommended
Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library
Modern university gallery presenting changing contemporary art exhibitions. Worth visiting for fresh work by regional and national artists.
- Recommended
Flag Market
Main civic square framed by major buildings and regular events. A central meeting point and one of Preston's most recognisable public spaces.
- Recommended
Lancaster Canal Towpath
Canal-side walking and cycling route with locks, boats, and long views. Ideal for a relaxed local ramble away from the busiest streets.
- Recommended
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Extensive riverside and wetland area popular for walking, birdlife, and broad open views. A lesser-known escape close to the city.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
Lancashire hotpot is a slow-cooked lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes, long linked with Lancashire home cooking and nearby mill towns.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is Preston's best-known savoury pie, filled with potato, onion and butter. It became a Friday staple for local Catholics avoiding meat.
- Vegetarian
Parkin
Parkin is a dark oat, treacle and ginger cake popular across Lancashire, especially in colder months and around Bonfire Night.
Northcote
Elegant fine dining by chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in a country house setting.
Angelo's
Long-established city centre restaurant serving classic Italian dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting. Popular for pasta, seafood and pre-theatre meals.
The Old Black Bull
Traditional Lancashire pub atmosphere with cask ales and hearty British plates. A good place to try regional comfort food in central Preston.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Preston; ask the driver for the cheapest suitable ticket.
- Most local travel is by bus from Preston Bus Station; check live departures in the Stagecoach Bus app before you travel.
FAQs: Trains from Inverness to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Inverness to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Inverness to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $61, while the average price is around $167.
The train from Inverness to Preston takes 5h 31m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Inverness to Preston leaves at 12:20 AM.
The distance by train from Inverness to Preston is 262 miles (423 km).
The last train from Inverness to Preston leaves at 8:45 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Inverness to Preston.
Yes, there is a direct train from Inverness to Preston. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Caledonian Sleeper.
Yes, there is a night train from Inverness to Preston.
The train station in Inverness that goes to Preston is Inverness station (INV), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Inverness to Preston is by train, with a cost of around $61.
The train journey from Inverness to Preston offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the Scottish Highlands, showcasing picturesque landscapes, rolling hills, and charming villages.
A day trip from Inverness to Preston is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 31m. Trains run 4 times per day over a distance of 262 miles (423 km).
To fully experience Preston's main attractions and local culture, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Inverness to Preston.
Since neither Inverness nor Preston 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 Preston include London, Bolton, Blackburn, Manchester, Lancaster.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Inverness to Preston 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 Preston, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and bogus charity collectors. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help ensure safety.
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 Inverness to Preston
Most Inverness to Preston trains use the Inverness to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Inverness and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Inverness
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Inverness station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Inverness to Preston leave from Inverness. The station is from Inverness city centre at Inverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY.
InvernessInverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Inverness from Inverness city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBuses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park
Inverness train station facilities and services
Inverness has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Inverness.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Inverness. ATMs are available at Inverness.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Inverness. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), 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 Inverness: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Inverness: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Inverness: 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. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 3, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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.
Which Preston station do trains from Inverness arrive at?
Trains from Inverness to Preston arrive at Preston. Preston is 0 miles (1 km) from Preston city centre.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · $11 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Inverness
More options for your journey from Inverness to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Inverness
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