- 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.
Cheapest price
$126
Average price
$133
Fastest journey
4 h 5 m
Average duration
4 h 10 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
294 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from London Gatwick Airport to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from London Gatwick Airport to Manchester will cost around $133 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $126.
It's difficult to get from London Gatwick Airport to Manchester without transferring at least 2 times.
C82255+
Tube from London Victoria to London Euston+
W33294
Tube from London Victoria to London Euston+
W33142+
C82979
Tube from London Victoria to London Euston+
W33172+
C82973
C82255+
Tube from London Victoria to London Euston+
W33294
Tube from London Victoria to London Euston+
W33142+
C82979
Tube from London Victoria to London Euston+
W33172+
C82973Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from London Gatwick Airport to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $20, and a train costs an average of $78.
Distance: 182 miles (294 km)
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$105 Average price | $28 Average price Cheapest | $101 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 25m Average total duration Fastest 3h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 54m Average total duration 6h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 19m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from London Gatwick Airport to Manchester:
A bus is $77 (€62) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London Gatwick Airport to Manchester costing on average $105 (€85).
Other travel options to Manchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 24m.
You'll arrive about 24m sooner (3h 55m by train vs 4h 19m by car). Tickets start at around $105 (€85) compared to roughly $101 (€81) 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.
The table below shows live departures for London Gatwick Airport to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W33172+ Tube from London Victoria to London Euston+ C82973 | 8:44 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h18 | 1:02 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2 transfers | |
W33294+ Tube from London Victoria to London Euston+ C82255 | 9:44 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h05 | 1:49 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2 transfers | |
W33142+ Tube from London Victoria to London Euston+ C82979 | 10:12 AM Gatwick Airport (GTW) | 4h07 | 2:19 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Trains from London Gatwick Airport to Manchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $78 (€62) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:46, the last at 21:13. The fastest train covers the 182 miles (294 km) distance in 3h 23m.
Distance 182 miles (294 km) |
Average train duration 3h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $78 (€62) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 23m |
First train 5:46 AM |
Last train 9:13 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.
Leading museum of science, industry, transport, and computing on a historic railway site. Essential for understanding Manchester's global impact.
Major art museum with Pre-Raphaelite works, design, and changing exhibitions. A central cultural stop with broad appeal.
The University of Manchester museum spans dinosaurs, Egypt, nature, and anthropology. Recently renewed and excellent for varied interests.
Historic canal-side district with Roman remains, warehouses, and walkable towpaths. One of Manchester's most atmospheric urban areas.
Central square framed by grand civic buildings, museums, and monuments. A classic starting point for exploring the city centre.
Creative quarter of street art, music history, indie shops, and nightlife. It is one of Manchester's most characterful neighborhoods.
A flaky pastry pie filled with spiced potatoes, onion and often chickpeas. Created by Manchester’s South Asian community and now a city staple.
A comforting Northern pudding of suet pastry filled with beef and onion, traditionally steamed and served with gravy. Common in Greater Manchester pubs.
Manchester’s classic order of battered fish with chips, often served with mushy peas and curry sauce. A long-standing local takeaway favourite.
Iconic market bakery and café known for Manchester tarts, Eccles cakes and hearty lunches. Casual, busy and deeply rooted in local food culture.
Refined modern British fine dining in a restored townhouse. Known for tasting menus, polished service and one of Manchester’s top culinary reputations.
Lively Indian restaurant famous for bold curries, grills and chaat. A long-established Rusholme favourite with a casual, energetic atmosphere.
Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost less than London, while dining and transit are manageable for tourists with many mid-range options.
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.
Traveling between London Gatwick Airport and Manchester is a seamless experience, thanks to several reliable train providers including Avanti West Coast, Cross Country, and East Midlands Railway. With frequent services available throughout the day, you can enjoy a comfortable journey that typically takes around 3 to 4 hours. Whether you're heading for business or leisure, these trains offer convenient connections with modern amenities to make your trip enjoyable.
The train journey from London Gatwick Airport to Manchester takes approximately 3 hours and 23 minutes. There are no direct connections available, with an average of 0 trains operating per day. Passengers will need to make transfers during their travel between these two cities.
The first daily train journey from London Gatwick Airport to Manchester departs at 05:16 AM, providing an early start for travelers. The last departure of the day is scheduled for 07:43 PM, allowing visitors ample time to explore both cities before returning.
The cheapest ticket price for a train journey between London Gatwick Airport and Manchester is approximately $69 (62.1€). The average ticket price tends to be around $124 (111.6€), making the cheaper option quite appealing for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities in the UK.
Welcome to Manchester Town Hall, a stunning example of Victorian Gothic architecture completed in 1877. This iconic building not only serves as the city's administrative center but also stands as a testament to Manchester's industrial heritage and civic pride. As you explore its grand interiors adorned with intricate mosaics and impressive sculptures, you'll discover how this landmark has been at the heart of local governance for over a century.
Next on our journey is The John Rylands Library, which opened its doors in 1900 and was founded by the wealthy textile magnate John Rylands in memory of his wife. Renowned for its breathtaking neo-Gothic design, this library houses an extensive collection of rare books and manuscripts that reflect centuries of literary history. As you wander through its hallowed halls filled with knowledge, take note of unique features like the beautiful stained glass windows that illuminate reading rooms steeped in scholarly tradition.
Finally, we arrive at Old Trafford Stadium—home to one of football’s most storied clubs: Manchester United FC. Established in 1910 and affectionately known as "The Theatre of Dreams," it boasts a rich legacy filled with legendary players and unforgettable matches that have captivated fans worldwide. While exploring this vibrant stadium complex, be sure to soak up the electric atmosphere where passion meets history; it's truly an experience every sports enthusiast should cherish!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London Gatwick Airport 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.

Most London Gatwick Airport to Manchester trains use the London Euston to Manchester Piccadilly station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester Airport. Use this guide to compare London Gatwick Airport and Manchester train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like 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.
Food options include: Burger King, Caffè Nero, Carluccio’s, Hotel Chocolat, Starbucks, The Pasty Shop, Costa Coffee, Pret a Manger, Upper Crust, McDonald's, & more
Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi. ATMs are there are ATM machines on the main concourse, Platform 10 and on the mezzanine level.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30, Sun: 07:00 - 22:30. Information desks are located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Luggage storage is operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Piccadilly: There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly, Premier Inn Manchester City, Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly.
Manchester Airport is 13 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
Manchester Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Airport.
Wi-Fi is available at Manchester Airport. ATMs are available at Manchester Airport.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Airport. Information desks are information available from staff: ,Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 107 2149, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Available at Manchester Airport: Parking, WC.
Available at Manchester Airport: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Airport: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: re Step free access is provided from the Ground Transport Interchange to all platforms via lifts or ramps. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance from Meeting Point 1 (adjacent to the Station Booking Office) and throughout the railway station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Customers requiring assistance should make themselves known to station staff no less than 20 minutes prior to the departure time of their train. Customers requiring assistance to access other services or to connect with terminals should request this from their airline or Manchester Airport Group. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay). Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible public telephones: In the station cafe on platforms 2 and 3, 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.
Manchester Victoria has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Victoria.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Victoria.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Manchester Victoria: Parking, WC.
Available at Manchester Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Victoria: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, Scooter Friendly Station - Step free access around the whole station via use of lifts between platforms 3-6, connection with Manchester Metrolink using ramps, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards Located near the ticket office, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: As per ticket office opening hours, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
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