Ipswich to Manchester train with Avanti West Coast

Fri, Jun 19
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Avanti West Coast
Greater Anglia
East Midlands Railway
London North Eastern Railway
CrossCountry
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
Greater Anglia
East Midlands Railway
London North Eastern Railway
CrossCountry
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Ipswich to Manchester

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$67

Average price

$131

Fastest journey

4 h 8 m

Average duration

4 h 43 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

278 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Ipswich to Manchester will cost around $131 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $67.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Ipswich for Manchester on Fri, Jun 19, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jun 19 the direct trains cover the 278 km distance in an average of 4 h 43 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 8 m .

On Fri, Jun 19 the slowest trains will take 5 h 34 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.

  • East Midlands Railway
    10:01 AM5h34
    Ipswich
    3:35 PMManchester
    $671One-way
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West Coast
    8:43 AM4h22
    Ipswich
    1:05 PMManchester
    $1161One-way
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West Coast
    7:43 AM4h22
    Ipswich
    12:05 PMManchester
    $1371One-way
    0 transfers
  • London North Eastern Railway
    7:41 AM5h09
    Ipswich
    12:50 PMManchester
    $1671One-way
    0 transfers
  • Avanti West Coast
    8:11 AM4h08
    Ipswich
    12:19 PMManchester
    $1691One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Ipswich to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ipswich to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $48. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 5m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $48, and a flight costs an average of $72.

Distance: 172 miles (278 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$121

Average price

$76

Average price

Cheapest

$217

Average price

$91

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 53m

Average total duration

4h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 5m

Average total duration

7h 35m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 5m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 5m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 34m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

0.8 - 1.7kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Avanti West Coast

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

British Airways

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Ipswich to Manchester is a bus with an average price of $76 (€63).

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

A bus is $45 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ipswich to Manchester costing on average $121 (€99).

A bus is $140 (€115) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Ipswich to Manchester costing on average $217 (€178).

The fastest way to travel from Ipswich to Manchester is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 5m.

Other travel options to Manchester take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 23m.

Bus takes on average 7h 35m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Ipswich and Manchester including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Ipswich 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 11m sooner (4h 23m by train vs 4h 34m by car). Tickets start at around $121 (€99) compared to roughly $91 (€75) 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

Ipswich to Manchester train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
London North Eastern Railway7:41 AM Ipswich
5h09
12:50 PM Manchester0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast7:43 AM Ipswich
4h22
12:05 PM Manchester0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast8:11 AM Ipswich
4h08
12:19 PM Manchester0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast8:43 AM Ipswich
4h22
1:05 PM Manchester0 transfersDirect
East Midlands Railway10:01 AM Ipswich
5h34
3:35 PM Manchester0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Ipswich 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.

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

Why should you book Ipswich to Manchester trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry and more offer trains services from Ipswich to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ipswich 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 Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway or CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Ipswich 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Ipswich to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Rome2rio?

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

Journey information

Overview: Train from Ipswich to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Ipswich to Manchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 172 miles (278 km) distance in 4h 3m.

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
172 miles (278 km)
Average train duration
4h 23m
Cheapest ticket price
$32 (€26)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
4h 3m
First train
12:07 AM
Last train
11:44 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
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

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry from Ipswich to Manchester trainsAvanti West Coast, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry trains will get you between Ipswich and Manchester from $32 (€26). 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 3m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€48)
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

Greater Anglia

About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 36m
Cheapest Price
$107 (€87)
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class tickets.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel 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 Duration
5h 22m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
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

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 Duration
5h 9m
Cheapest Price
$167 (€137)
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

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 45m
Cheapest Price
$101 (€83)
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require 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

Major museum exploring Manchester’s role in science, technology and industry, with historic machinery and railway heritage on the oldest surviving passenger railway station site.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

University museum with acclaimed natural history, archaeology and cultural collections, recently refreshed and especially popular for its dinosaur and ancient Egypt displays.

  • Must visit

Manchester Art Gallery

Central city gallery with fine art, design and decorative arts collections, plus changing exhibitions in a landmark civic building.

Pound sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Budget eats are easy to find, but central hotels and nightlife can be pricey.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for street food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
GBP 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

Service is often included in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service, but small tips are appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Ipswich to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $32 (€26), while the average price is around $121 (€99).
The train from Ipswich to Manchester takes 4h 3m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Ipswich to Manchester is 172 miles (278 km).
The first train from Ipswich to Manchester leaves at 12:07 AM.
The last train from Ipswich to Manchester leaves at 11:44 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Ipswich to Manchester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Ipswich to Manchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Ipswich to Manchester.
The train station in Ipswich that goes to Manchester is Ipswich station (IPS), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Ipswich to Manchester is by train, with a cost of around $32 (€26).
The train journey from Ipswich to Manchester offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes, with views of the English countryside, small towns, and cities along the way, but it is not typically highlighted as one of the UK's most scenic routes.
A day trip from Ipswich to Manchester is not feasible as the journey duration is 4h 3m. However, trains run with a frequency of 5 per day for this 172 miles (278 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 Ipswich to Manchester.
Since neither Ipswich 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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Manchester

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

Departure train stations in Ipswich
Arrival train stations in Manchester

Which Ipswich station do trains to Manchester leave from?

Trains from Ipswich to Manchester leave from Ipswich. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Ipswich city centre at Ipswich station, Burrell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8AL.
IpswichIpswich station, Burrell Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP2 8AL+44 3450507080WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Ipswich from Ipswich city centre

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

Bus13, 12, 23, 3, 119, 3E · 7m · $2 · every ~27 min
12, 3, 13, 15, 119, 3E, 23 · 9m · $2 · every ~35 min
111 · 21m

Ipswich train station facilities and services

Ipswich has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Ipswich.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Ipswich. ATMs are available at Ipswich.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Ipswich.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Ipswich: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Ipswich: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Ipswich: 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, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Derby RoadDerby Road station, Derby Road, Ipswich, Suffolk, IP3 8DNParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
City-centre transport

Getting to Derby Road from Ipswich city centre

Derby Road is 2 km from Ipswich city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainIpswich - Felixstowe · 11m · $5 · every ~2 min
Bus5, 5E · 12m · every ~13 min

Derby Road train station facilities and services

Derby Road has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Derby Road.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Derby Road: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Derby Road: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Derby Road: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, 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.

More options for your journey from Ipswich to Manchester

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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