IPSWICH to MANCHESTER train from $35 (€29) with Avanti West Coast

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

4.9

42K ratings

Google Play

4.6

136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Ipswich to Manchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18

Cheapest price on Sep 18

$67

Average ticket price on Sep 18

$131

Fastest journey on Sep 18

4 h 8 m

Average journey duration on Sep 18

4 h 43 m

Trains on Sep 18

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

On Fri, Sep 18, we found 5 trains from Ipswich to Manchester, including 5 direct services.

On Fri, Sep 18 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, Sep 18 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.

10:01 AM5h34
Ipswich
3:35 PMManchester
$671One-way
0 transfers
8:43 AM4h22
Ipswich
1:05 PMManchester
$1161One-way
0 transfers
7:43 AM4h22
Ipswich
12:05 PMManchester
$1371One-way
0 transfers
7:41 AM5h09
Ipswich
12:50 PMManchester
$1671One-way
0 transfers
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 an average ticket price of $96 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 55m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $96, while a flight costs an average of $486.

Distance: 172 miles (278 km)

Compare train with

Most popular Train	Bus	Flight	Driving
$145 Average price	$96 Average price Cheapest	$486 Average price	$92 Average price (fuel + tolls)
4h 13m Average total duration 3h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	8h 16m Average total duration 7h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time*	3h 55m Average total duration Fastest 1h 55m Onboard + 2h 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
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.

The cheapest way to travel from Ipswich to Manchester is a bus with an average price of $96 (€79).

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

A bus is $49 (€40) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ipswich to Manchester costing on average $145 (€119).

A bus is $390 (€319) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Ipswich to Manchester costing on average $486 (€398).

The fastest way to travel from Ipswich to Manchester is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 55m.

Other travel options to Manchester take longer:

Train takes on average 3h 43m.

Bus takes on average 7h 46m.

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 51m sooner (3h 43m by train vs 4h 34m by car). Tickets start at around $145 (€119) compared to roughly $92 (€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 today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
6:18 AM Ipswich	6h17	12:35 PM Manchester	0 transfersDirect
7:43 AM Ipswich	4h22	12:05 PM Manchester	0 transfersDirect
8:43 AM Ipswich	4h22	1:05 PM Manchester	0 transfersDirect
10:01 AM Ipswich	5h34	3:35 PM Manchester	0 transfersDirect
2:10 PM Ipswich	4h09	6:19 PM Manchester	0 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
Sep 18

Sat
Sep 19

Sun
Sep 20

Mon
Sep 21

Tue
Sep 22

Wed
Sep 23

Thu
Sep 24

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 Kingdom

Trains from Ipswich to Manchester run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $67 (€55) but you can travel from only $63 (€52) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 00:07, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 172 miles (278 km) distance in 3h 24m.

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 $63 (€52)

Distance

172 miles (278 km)

Average train duration

3h 43m

Cheapest ticket price

$67 (€55)

Trains per day

Fastest train

3h 24m

First train

12:07 AM

Last train

11:44 PM

Cheapest Month

Jan

Cheapest Day

Tue

High Season

Jan - Mar

Low Season

Jul - Sep

Busiest Day

Tue

Least Busy Day

Sat

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $63 (€52)

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway from Ipswich to Manchester trainsAvanti West Coast, Greater Anglia, East Midlands Railway, London North Eastern Railway trains will get you between Ipswich and Manchester from $67 (€55). 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 Avanti West Coast Duration

3h 24m

Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price

$96 (€79)

Avanti West Coast frequency

2 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

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

Learn more about Avanti West Coast

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 Greater Anglia Duration

3h 53m

Cheapest Greater Anglia Price

$92 (€75)

Greater Anglia frequency

2 a day

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

Learn more about Greater Anglia

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 East Midlands Railway Duration

4h 11m

Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price

$67 (€55)

East Midlands Railway frequency

1 a day

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

Learn more about East Midlands Railway

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

4h 17m

Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price

$154 (€126)

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

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.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Manchester Art Gallery

Major art museum with Pre-Raphaelite works, design, and changing exhibitions. A central cultural stop with broad appeal.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Manchester Museum

The University of Manchester museum spans dinosaurs, Egypt, nature, and anthropology. Recently renewed and excellent for varied interests.

View on map Visit website

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 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.

Train ticket prices from Ipswich to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $67 (€55), while the average price is around $145 (€119).

The train from Ipswich to Manchester takes 3h 24m and runs 4 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 $67 (€55).

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 3h 24m. 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 3450507080 Wifi

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.

More about Ipswich

Which Manchester station do trains from Ipswich arrive at?

Trains from Ipswich 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 Wifi

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.