Manchester Airport to Chester train with Northern Rail

Fri, Oct 16
+ Add return
Transport for Wales
Northern Rail
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
Northern Rail
Avanti West Coast
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester Airport to Chester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 16

Cheapest price on Oct 16

$13

Average ticket price on Oct 16

$35

Fastest journey on Oct 16

1 h 12 m

Average journey duration on Oct 16

1 h 18 m

Trains on Oct 16

55

Distance

45 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester Airport to Chester will cost around $35 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $13.

Fast trains

On Fri, Oct 16, we found 55 trains from Manchester Airport to Chester, including 11 direct services.

On Fri, Oct 16 the direct trains cover the 45 km distance in an average of 1 h 18 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 12 m .

On Fri, Oct 16 the slowest trains will take 1 h 22 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.

  • Northern RailG86131 · G89073
    5:32 AM1h39
    Manchester Airport (MIA)
    7:11 AMChester station (CTR)
    $131One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38425
    11:25 PM1h21
    Manchester Airport (MIA)
    12:46 AMChester station (CTR)
    $151One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG38424
    10:25 PM1h27
    Manchester Airport (MIA)
    11:52 PMChester station (CTR)
    $171One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern RailG86170 · G89084
    9:32 AM1h29
    Manchester Airport (MIA)
    11:01 AMChester station (CTR)
    $181One-way
    1 transfer
  • Northern RailG86122 · G89095
    12:32 PM1h29
    Manchester Airport (MIA)
    2:01 PMChester station (CTR)
    $181One-way
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester Airport to Chester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Manchester Airport to Chester run on average 10 times per day, taking around 1h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $3 if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:32, the last at 11:32. The fastest train covers the 27 miles (45 km) distance in 45m.

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
27 miles (45 km)
Average train duration
1h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
$3
Trains per day
10
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
45m
First train
5:32 AM
Last train
11:32 AM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
1 day
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

Live departures

Manchester Airport to Chester train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester Airport to Chester trains for today, Thursday, October 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for WalesG384119:26 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h22
10:48 PM Chester station (CTR)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG86143 · G85956
On time
9:32 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
2h05
11:37 PM Chester station (CTR)
1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressC24655+Northern RailG85956
On time
9:40 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h57
11:37 PM Chester station (CTR)
1 transfer
Northern RailG89591+Transpennine ExpressW84734+Transport for WalesG38424
On time
9:48 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
2h04
11:52 PM Chester station (CTR)
2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38424
On time
10:25 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h27
11:52 PM Chester station (CTR)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG89599 · G85962
On time
10:48 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h53
12:41 AM Chester station (CTR)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38427
On time
11:25 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h21
12:46 AM Chester station (CTR)
0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG89609+Transport for WalesW45336
On time
11:46 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h38
1:24 AM Chester station (CTR)
1 transfer
Friday, October 16
Transport for WalesG383865:25 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h22
6:47 AM Chester station (CTR)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG86131 · G890735:32 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h39
7:11 AM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG89542+Transpennine ExpressW84643+Transport for WalesG383905:48 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
2h01
7:49 AM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Northern RailG90093+Transport for WalesG386175:51 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h12
7:03 AM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW85164+Northern RailP24187 · G890746:03 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
2h06
8:09 AM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG383906:25 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h24
7:49 AM Chester station (CTR)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG90105+Transport for WalesG386238:01 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h43
9:44 AM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG89560 · G89080+East Midlands RailwayC044398:17 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h44
10:01 AM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG383998:25 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h24
9:49 AM Chester station (CTR)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG86165 · G890808:32 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h29
10:01 AM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressG15896+Northern RailG859008:44 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h53
10:37 AM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG89564+Transpennine ExpressW84656+Transport for WalesG384038:48 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
2h01
10:49 AM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Northern RailG90109+Transport for WalesG386259:01 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h43
10:44 AM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG89569 · G89084+East Midlands RailwayC044449:17 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h44
11:01 AM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG384039:25 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h24
10:49 AM Chester station (CTR)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG86170 · G890849:32 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h29
11:01 AM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG90115+Avanti West CoastW3401110:01 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h13
11:14 AM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG89577 · G89086+East Midlands RailwayC2180410:17 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h44
12:01 PM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG3840510:25 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h26
11:51 AM Chester station (CTR)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG86176 · G8908610:32 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h29
12:01 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressC24597+Northern RailG8590610:44 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h53
12:37 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG86181 · G8909211:32 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h29
1:01 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressG16000+Northern RailG8591011:44 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h53
1:37 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG89589+Transpennine ExpressW84673+Transport for WalesG3841311:48 AM Manchester Airport (MIA)
2h01
1:49 PM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Northern RailG90120+Transport for WalesG3863112:01 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h43
1:44 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG89593 · G89095+East Midlands RailwayC2159012:17 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h44
2:01 PM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG3841312:25 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h24
1:49 PM Chester station (CTR)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG86122 · G8909512:32 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h29
2:01 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressC24608+Northern RailG8591612:44 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h55
2:39 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG86141 · G890981:32 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h29
3:01 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressG16023+Northern RailG852971:44 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h53
3:37 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG89607+Transpennine ExpressW84686+Transport for WalesG384171:48 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
2h01
3:49 PM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Northern RailG90124+Transport for WalesG386372:01 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h43
3:44 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG89614 · G89102+East Midlands RailwayC215912:17 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h44
4:01 PM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG384172:25 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h24
3:49 PM Chester station (CTR)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG86154 · G891022:32 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h29
4:01 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressC24619+Northern RailG859212:44 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h53
4:37 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG89617+Transpennine ExpressW84692+Transport for WalesG383892:48 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
2h01
4:49 PM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Northern RailG90089+Transport for WalesG386393:01 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h43
4:44 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG89541 · G89105+East Midlands RailwayC218103:17 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h52
5:09 PM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG383893:25 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h24
4:49 PM Chester station (CTR)0 transfersDirect
Northern RailG86163 · G891053:32 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h37
5:09 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressG16020+Northern RailG859253:44 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h56
5:40 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG89543+Transpennine ExpressW84697+Transport for WalesG383933:48 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
2h01
5:49 PM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Northern RailG90095+Transport for WalesG386414:01 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h43
5:44 PM Chester station (CTR)1 transfer
Northern RailG89546 · G89075+East Midlands RailwayC215934:17 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h52
6:09 PM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers
Northern RailG89901 · L89665+Transport for WalesG386529:01 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)
1h43
10:44 PM Chester station (CTR)2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Manchester Airport to Chester trains with Omio?

Transport for Wales as well as Northern Rail or Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Manchester Airport to Chester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester Airport to Chester.

Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Manchester Airport to Chester.
  • 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.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trip or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail or Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Manchester Airport to Chester.

Train companies: Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast from Manchester Airport to Chester trainsNorthern Rail, Transport for Wales, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Manchester Airport and Chester from $3. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 Northern Rail Duration
54m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
$3
Northern Rail frequency
4 a day
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

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
1h 9m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$9
Transport for Wales frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking 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 allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
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 Avanti West Coast Duration
45m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$23
Avanti West Coast 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
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

Complete guide to Chester

Things to do in Chester

Discover the best of Chester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chester trip today.

  • Must visit

Grosvenor Museum

An award-winning medical history attraction exploring disease, cures, and public health in a playful way. It is unusual, family-friendly, and increasingly popular.

  • Recommended

Cheshire Military Museum

A major museum on Roman Chester with archaeology, reconstructed rooms, and hands-on displays. It is the best place to understand the city’s ancient roots.

  • Recommended

Sick to Death

A richly furnished Georgian townhouse showing domestic life across centuries. Costumed interpretation and period interiors make it engaging and memorable.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining cost less than London, but tourist areas raise prices. Buses are reasonable; central sights are walkable.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4 for cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% at restaurants for good service. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.

FAQs: Trains from Manchester Airport to Chester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester Airport to Chester 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 Chester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Manchester Airport to Chester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $3, while the average price is around $25.
The train from Manchester Airport to Chester takes 45m and runs 10 per day.
The distance by train from Manchester Airport to Chester is 27 miles (45 km).
The first train from Manchester Airport to Chester leaves at 5:32 AM.
The last train from Manchester Airport to Chester leaves at 11:32 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester Airport to Chester.
Yes, there is a direct train from Manchester Airport to Chester. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester Airport to Chester.
The train journey from Manchester Airport to Chester offers views of the Cheshire countryside, featuring rolling fields, picturesque villages, and glimpses of the River Mersey, providing a pleasant and scenic travel experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester Airport to Chester.
Popular day trips by train from Chester include Manchester, Liverpool, Shrewsbury, Crewe, Stockport.
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 Chester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and near popular attractions. Be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed taxis or pre-booked transportation. Scams involving overpriced goods or services can occur in busy tourist spots, so it's advisable to agree on prices beforehand and be vigilant when approached by street vendors.
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 Manchester Airport to Chester

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

Departure train stations in Manchester
Arrival train stations in Chester
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Chester from Chester city centre

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

Bus100, 16 · 4m · $5 · every ~2 min

Chester train station facilities and services

Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Chester.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Chester.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, 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 Chester: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, 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.

Most popular trains to and from Chester and Manchester Airport

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