- 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 Lancaster to Preston
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
$6
Average price
$7
Fastest journey
17 m
Average duration
17 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
34 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Lancaster to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Lancaster to Preston will cost around $7 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $6.
Fast trains
Of the 11 trains that leave Lancaster for Preston on Tue, Aug 04, 11 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 04 the direct trains cover the 34 km distance in an average of 17 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 17 m .
On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest trains will take 17 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.
W8490110:26 AM0h18Lancaster station (LAN)10:44 AMPreston station (PRE)$61One-way0 transfers- W8488410:22 AM0h18Lancaster station (LAN)10:40 AMPreston station (PRE)$61One-way0 transfers
W340289:40 AM0h17Lancaster station (LAN)9:57 AMPreston station (PRE)$61One-way0 transfers- W3403910:39 AM0h17Lancaster station (LAN)10:56 AMPreston station (PRE)$61One-way0 transfers
- W339039:58 AM0h17Lancaster station (LAN)10:15 AMPreston station (PRE)$61One-way0 transfers
- W342658:59 AM0h17Lancaster station (LAN)9:16 AMPreston station (PRE)$71One-way0 transfers
- W340289:40 AM0h17Lancaster station (LAN)9:57 AMPreston station (PRE)$61One-way0 transfers
- W341818:41 AM0h17Lancaster station (LAN)8:58 AMPreston station (PRE)$71One-way0 transfers
- W3403910:39 AM0h17Lancaster station (LAN)10:56 AMPreston station (PRE)$61One-way0 transfers
- W339039:58 AM0h17Lancaster station (LAN)10:15 AMPreston station (PRE)$61One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Lancaster to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Lancaster to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $3. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 18m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $3, and a bus costs an average of $12.
Distance: 21 miles (34 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$11 Average price Cheapest | $13 Average price |
48m Average total duration Fastest 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 13m Average total duration 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Lancaster to Preston is a train with an average price of $11.
This is compared to other travel options from Lancaster to Preston:
A train is $2 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Lancaster to Preston costing on average $13.
The fastest way to travel from Lancaster to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 18m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Bus takes on average 43m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Lancaster and Preston including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lancaster to Preston among Omio's users.
Live departures
Lancaster to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Lancaster to Preston trains for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W84907 | Delayed 11:31 AM 12:27 PMLancaster station (LAN) | 0h18 | 12:45 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W33973 | Delayed 11:42 AM 12:40 PMLancaster station (LAN) | 0h17 | 12:57 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
 G89887 | On time 12:50 PM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h20 | 1:10 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, August 4 | |||||
| W84896 | 8:28 AM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h18 | 8:46 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34181 | 8:41 AM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h17 | 8:58 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89882 | 8:48 AM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h18 | 9:06 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34265 | 8:59 AM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h17 | 9:16 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W84899 | 9:29 AM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h18 | 9:47 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34028 | 9:40 AM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h17 | 9:57 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89883 | 9:50 AM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h18 | 10:08 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W33903 | 9:58 AM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h17 | 10:15 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W84884 | 10:22 AM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h18 | 10:40 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W84901 | 10:26 AM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h18 | 10:44 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34039 | 10:39 AM Lancaster station (LAN) | 0h17 | 10:56 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Lancaster to Preston by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
Tue
Aug 04
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Aug 07
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Aug 08
Aug 08
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Aug 10
Aug 10
Why should you book Lancaster to Preston trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as Avanti West Coast or Northern Rail offer trains services from Lancaster to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Lancaster to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs Transpennine Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transpennine Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Northern Rail to find the best option for your trip from Lancaster 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 Transpennine Express with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Lancaster to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Northern Rail to find the best option for your trip from Lancaster to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Lancaster to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Lancaster to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Lancaster to Preston run on average 8 times per day, taking around 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $3 if you book in advance.
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:13, the last at 23:26. The fastest train covers the 21 miles (34 km) distance in 17m.
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 21 miles (34 km) |
Average train duration 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $3 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 8 |
Fastest train 17m |
First train 5:13 AM |
Last train 11:26 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 21 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: Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail from Lancaster to Preston trainsTranspennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Northern Rail trains will get you between Lancaster and Preston from $3. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
18m
Cheapest Price
$12
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
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
17m
Cheapest Price
$13
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
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
18m
Cheapest Price
$3
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
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 dogs per passenger
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 Lancaster to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Lancaster 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 Lancaster to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $3, while the average price is around $11.
The train from Lancaster to Preston takes 17m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Lancaster to Preston leaves at 5:13 AM.
The distance by train from Lancaster to Preston is 21 miles (34 km).
The last train from Lancaster to Preston leaves at 11:26 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Lancaster to Preston.
There is no direct train service currently available from Lancaster to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Lancaster to Preston.
The train station in Lancaster that goes to Preston is Lancaster station (LAN), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Lancaster to Preston is by train, with a cost of around $3.
The train journey from Lancaster to Preston offers pleasant countryside views, including rolling hills and picturesque farmland, making it a moderately scenic route.
Yes, a day trip from Lancaster to Preston is feasible with a journey time of 17m and a frequency of 7 trains per day over a distance of 21 miles (34 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 Lancaster to Preston.
Since neither Lancaster 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, Liverpool.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Lancaster 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 Lancaster to Preston
Most Lancaster to Preston trains use the Lancaster to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Lancaster and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Lancaster
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Lancaster station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Lancaster to Preston leave from Lancaster. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Lancaster city centre at Lancaster station, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 5NW.
LancasterLancaster station, Meeting House Lane, Lancaster, Lancashire, LA1 5NW
City-centre transport
Getting to Lancaster from Lancaster city centre
Lancaster is 2 km from Lancaster city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSouthwest Chief · 65h 2m · $1153
Pennsylvanian · 17h 47m · $577
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 65h 11m · $1011
Southwest Chief, Texas Eagle · 75h 46m · $1295
BusGreyhound US1210 · 69h 20m · $680
Lancaster train station facilities and services
Lancaster has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Lancaster.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Lancaster. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, 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 Lancaster: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Lancaster: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Lancaster: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This station has step-free access to all platforms / the platform Lifts to All Platforms, accessible via taking the right hand entrance to the over bridge from the ticket office, 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 Lancaster arrive at?
Trains from Lancaster 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 Lancaster
More options for your journey from Lancaster to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Lancaster
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