Luton to Preston train with Avanti West Coast

Fri, Sep 18
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
East Midlands Railway
Thameslink
east_midlands_trains
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
East Midlands Railway
Thameslink
east_midlands_trains
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Luton to Preston

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18

Cheapest price on Sep 18

$115

Average ticket price on Sep 18

$116

Fastest journey on Sep 18

4 h 12 m

Average journey duration on Sep 18

4 h 32 m

Trains on Sep 18

2

Distance

261 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Luton to Preston will cost around $116 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $115.

Fast trains

On Fri, Sep 18, we found 2 trains from Luton to Preston, including 2 direct services.

On Fri, Sep 18 the direct trains cover the 261 km distance in an average of 4 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 12 m .

On Fri, Sep 18 the slowest trains will take 4 h 52 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.

  • West Midlands Trains
    10:40 AM4h12
    Luton
    2:52 PMPreston
    $1151One-way
    0 transfers
  • East Midlands Railway
    9:40 AM4h52
    Luton
    2:32 PMPreston
    $1161One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Luton to Preston

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Luton to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $76 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 29m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $76, while a flight costs an average of $434.

Distance: 162 miles (261 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$137

Average price

$76

Average price

Cheapest

$434

Average price

$85

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 29m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 35m

Average total duration

6h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 53m

Average total duration

1h 53m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

3h 27m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

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

The cheapest way to travel from Luton to Preston is a bus with an average price of $76.

This is compared to other travel options from Luton to Preston:

A bus is $62 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Luton to Preston costing on average $137.

A bus is $358 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Luton to Preston costing on average $434.

The fastest way to travel from Luton to Preston is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 53m.

Other travel options to Preston take longer:

Train takes on average 2h 59m.

Bus takes on average 6h 5m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Luton and Preston including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Luton to Preston 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 28m sooner (2h 59m by train vs 3h 27m by car). Tickets start at around $137 compared to roughly $85 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

Luton to Preston train times

The table below shows live departures for Luton to Preston trains for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
East Midlands Railway9:40 AM Luton
4h52
2:32 PM Preston0 transfersDirect
West Midlands Trains10:40 AM Luton
4h12
2:52 PM Preston0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Luton to Preston by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, 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 Luton to Preston trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as East Midlands Railway, Thameslink, east_midlands_trains and more offer trains services from Luton to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Luton to Preston.

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 East Midlands Railway, Thameslink or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Luton 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Luton to Preston.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway, Thameslink or east_midlands_trains to find the best option for your trip from Luton to Preston.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Luton to Preston.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Luton to Preston

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Luton to Preston run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $70 but you can travel from only $25 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 05:04, the last at 21:40. The fastest train covers the 162 miles (261 km) distance in 2h 39m.

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 $25
Distance
162 miles (261 km)
Average train duration
2h 59m
Cheapest ticket price
$70
Trains per day
8
Fastest train
2h 39m
First train
5:04 AM
Last train
9:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sat
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $25

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, East Midlands Railway, Lumo from Luton to Preston trainsAvanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, East Midlands Railway, Lumo trains will get you between Luton and Preston from $25. 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
2h 39m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$70
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 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

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 Transpennine Express Duration
3h 21m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$100
Transpennine Express frequency
1 a day
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

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
3h 30m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$113
East Midlands Railway frequency
2 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

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
2h 40m
Cheapest Lumo Price
$97
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

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.

  • 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.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from Luton to Preston

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Luton 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Luton to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $70, while the average price is around $137.
The train from Luton to Preston takes 2h 39m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Luton to Preston is 162 miles (261 km).
The first train from Luton to Preston leaves at 5:04 AM.
The last train from Luton to Preston leaves at 9:40 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Luton to Preston.
There is no direct train service currently available from Luton to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Luton to Preston.
The train station in Luton that goes to Preston is Luton station (LUT), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Luton to Preston is by bus, with a cost of around $25.
The train journey from Luton to Preston offers varied scenery, including stretches of the English countryside, towns, and cities, but it is not typically highlighted as one of the UK's most scenic train routes.
A day trip from Luton to Preston is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 39m one way. Trains run 6 times per day over a distance of 162 miles (261 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 Luton to Preston.
Since neither Luton 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 Luton 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 Luton to Preston

Most Luton to Preston trains use the Luton to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Luton and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Luton
Arrival train stations in Preston

Which Luton station do trains to Preston leave from?

Trains from Luton to Preston leave from Luton. The station is from Luton city centre at Luton station, Station Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2LT.
LutonLuton station, Station Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 2LTWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton from Luton city centre

Bus17 · 7m · $2 · every ~2 min

Luton train station facilities and services

Luton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Luton.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

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

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luton: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Luton: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category B3 station: Step free access via lift to platform 5 only (some trains to Bedford/ the East Midlands) only. Steps to all other platforms. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office. This station doesn't have tactile surfaces along all platform edges. Please pay attention to where the platform surface changes from smooth to paved or contact us for assistance, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Luton Airport ParkwayLuton Airport Parkway station, Parkway Road, Luton, Bedfordshire, LU1 3JWWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton Airport Parkway from Luton city centre

Luton Airport Parkway is 1 km from Luton city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCorby - London St Pancras International, Sheffield - London St Pancras International, Nottingham - London St Pancras International, Kettering - London St Pancras International, Wellingborough - London St Pancras International, East Midlands Parkway - London St Pancras International · 2m · $1 · every ~4 min
BusX4, X1, X2, Z, A, X3 · 5m · $5 · every ~41 min
612, X10 · 5m · $1 · every ~2 min
44, 45, 366 · 6m · $2 · every ~2 min
101, 100 · 10m · $5 · every ~7 min

Luton Airport Parkway train station facilities and services

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

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Luton Airport Parkway.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Luton Airport Parkway. ATMs are available at Luton Airport Parkway.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton Airport Parkway.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Luton Airport Parkway: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton Airport Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to all platforms via lifts. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

Luton DART ParkwayLuton LU2 0HB, UKAccessibility

Luton DART Parkway train station facilities and services

Luton DART Parkway has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton DART Parkway: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.

More options for your journey from Luton to Preston

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

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone