- 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 Manchester Airport to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 28
Cheapest price on Sep 28
$9
Average ticket price on Sep 28
$14
Fastest journey on Sep 28
1 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Sep 28
1 h 7 m
Trains on Sep 28
8
Distance
53 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester Airport to Preston 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 Preston will cost around $14 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $9.
Fast trains
On Mon, Sep 28, we found 8 trains from Manchester Airport to Preston, including 8 direct services.
On Mon, Sep 28 the direct trains cover the 53 km distance in an average of 1 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 5 m .
On Mon, Sep 28 the slowest trains will take 1 h 9 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.
7:48 AM1h09Manchester Airport8:57 AMPreston$91One-way0 transfers- 8:17 AM1h09Manchester Airport9:26 AMPreston$111One-way0 transfers
- 5:48 AM1h11Manchester Airport6:59 AMPreston$131One-way0 transfers
- 10:48 AM1h09Manchester Airport11:57 AMPreston$141One-way0 transfers
- 11:17 AM1h08Manchester Airport12:25 PMPreston$141One-way0 transfers
- 10:48 PM1h05Manchester Airport11:53 PMPreston$151One-way0 transfers
- 5:29 PM1h06Manchester Airport6:35 PMPreston$201One-way0 transfers
- 11:17 AM1h08Manchester Airport12:25 PMPreston$141One-way0 transfers
- 10:48 AM1h09Manchester Airport11:57 AMPreston$141One-way0 transfers
- 8:17 AM1h09Manchester Airport9:26 AMPreston$111One-way0 transfers
Live departures
Manchester Airport to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester Airport to Preston trains for today, Sunday, September 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 W85189 | On time 1:13 PM Manchester Airport (MIA) | 0h50 | 2:03 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89048 | On time 1:30 PM Manchester Airport (MIA) | 1h03 | 2:33 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W85192 | On time 2:10 PM Manchester Airport (MIA) | 0h53 | 3:03 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89068 | On time 2:30 PM Manchester Airport (MIA) | 1h03 | 3:33 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89578 | On time 2:45 PM Manchester Airport (MIA) | 1h12 | 3:57 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:48 AM Manchester Airport | 1h11 | 6:59 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:48 AM Manchester Airport | 1h09 | 8:57 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:17 AM Manchester Airport | 1h09 | 9:26 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:30 AM Manchester Airport | 1h56 | 10:26 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:48 AM Manchester Airport | 1h09 | 11:57 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:17 AM Manchester Airport | 1h08 | 12:25 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester Airport to Preston by train or bus
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.
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Sep 28
Sep 28
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Thu
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Oct 04
Why should you book Manchester Airport to Preston trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as Northern Rail offer trains services from Manchester Airport to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester Airport 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 Northern Rail to find the best option for your trip from Manchester Airport 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester Airport to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail to find the best option for your trip from Manchester Airport to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Manchester Airport to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester Airport to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester Airport to Preston run on average 10 times per day, taking around 1h 5m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $6 (€5) if you book in advance.
There are 10 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 06:17, the last at 12:17. The fastest train covers the 32 miles (53 km) distance in 50m.
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 32 miles (53 km) |
Average train duration 1h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $6 (€5) |
Trains per day 10 |
Direct trains 10 |
Fastest train 50m |
First train 6:17 AM |
Last train 12:17 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Train companies: Northern Rail, Transpennine Express from Manchester Airport to Preston trainsNorthern Rail, Transpennine Express trains will get you between Manchester Airport and Preston from $6 (€5). 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
59m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
$6 (€5)
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
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
50m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$10 (€8)
Transpennine Express frequency
2 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
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 Manchester Airport to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester Airport 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 Manchester Airport to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $6 (€5), while the average price is around $18 (€15).
The train from Manchester Airport to Preston takes 50m and runs 10 per day.
The first train from Manchester Airport to Preston leaves at 6:17 AM.
The distance by train from Manchester Airport to Preston is 32 miles (53 km).
The last train from Manchester Airport to Preston leaves at 12:17 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester Airport to Preston.
Yes, there is a direct train from Manchester Airport to Preston. This service operates 10 times per day, provided by Transpennine Express, Northern Rail.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester Airport to Preston.
The train journey from Manchester Airport to Preston offers a mix of urban and countryside views, with stretches through Greater Manchester's suburbs and glimpses of the Lancashire countryside, making parts of the trip fairly scenic.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester Airport to Preston.
Popular day trips by train from Preston include London, Bolton, Blackburn, Manchester, Lancaster.
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 Manchester Airport to Preston
Most Manchester Airport to Preston trains use the Manchester Airport to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester Airport and Preston 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 Preston
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 Manchester Airport
More options for your journey from Manchester Airport to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Manchester Airport
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