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Jane Austen's former home, where she revised and wrote major novels; an essential literary museum with authentic rooms and collection.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Alton
Showing times and prices for Aug 21
Cheapest price
$120
Average price
$120
Fastest journey
4 h 23 m
Average duration
4 h 23 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
273 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Alton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Alton will cost around $120 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $120.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Manchester for Alton on Fri, Aug 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Aug 21 the direct trains cover the 273 km distance in an average of 4 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 23 m .
On Fri, Aug 21 the slowest trains will take 4 h 23 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.
9:14 AM4h23Manchester1:37 PMAlton$1201One-way0 transfers
- 9:14 AM4h23Manchester1:37 PMAlton$1201One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Manchester to Alton
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Alton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 50m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $27, and a flight costs an average of $219.
Distance: 169 miles (273 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus |
|---|---|---|
$88 Average price | $219 Average price | $44 Average price Cheapest |
4h 24m Average total duration 3h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration Fastest 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 44m Average total duration 8h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Alton is a bus with an average price of $44 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Alton:
A bus is $44 (€35) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Alton costing on average $88 (€71).
A bus is $175 (€141) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Alton costing on average $219 (€176).
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Alton is by flight with an average journey time of 50m.
Other travel options to Alton take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 54m.
Bus takes on average 8h 14m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Alton including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Alton among Omio's users.
Live departures
Manchester to Alton train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Alton trains for tomorrow, Friday, August 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:14 AM Manchester | 4h23 | 1:37 PM Alton | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Alton by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
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Aug 21
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Why should you book Manchester to Alton trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast operates all trains services from Manchester to Alton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Alton.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Alton.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Alton.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Alton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Alton run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $60 (€48) but you can travel from only $27 (€22) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:02, the last at 20:11. The fastest train covers the 169 miles (273 km) distance in 4h 26m.
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 $27 (€22)
Distance 169 miles (273 km) |
Average train duration 3h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price $60 (€48) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 26m |
First train 5:02 AM |
Last train 8:11 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $27 (€22)
Train companies: Avanti West Coast from Manchester to Alton trainsAvanti West Coast trains will get you between Manchester and Alton from $27 (€22). 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 Duration
4h 26m
Cheapest Price
$60 (€48)
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
Complete guide to Alton
Things to do in Alton
Discover the best of Alton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Alton trip today.
- Recommended
Curtis Museum
Volunteer-run town museum covering Alton's social, military, brewing, and transport history through local objects and archives.
- Recommended
Allen Gallery
House museum celebrating novelist Fanny Adams and Victorian domestic life, offering an intimate literary and local history experience.
- Must visit
Chawton Village
Pretty village street lined with cottages and literary landmarks, ideal for a relaxed walk between Jane Austen-related sites.
- Recommended
High Street
Pedestrian-friendly historic high street with Georgian buildings, independent shops, and a clear sense of Alton's market-town heritage.
- Recommended
Alice Holt Forest
Large woodland park for walking, cycling, and family outings, popular for accessible trails and seasonal scenery near town.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Hampshire Cider
A crisp cider made in Hampshire orchards. It is a traditional local drink tied to the county’s long apple-growing and farmhouse cider-making heritage.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Watercress Soup
A rustic soup of watercress, potato and onion. Hampshire is famous for watercress farming, especially around nearby Alresford.
Sunday Roast
A classic roast of local beef with potatoes, vegetables and gravy. It is a cherished British Sunday meal widely enjoyed in Hampshire pubs and homes.
The Cassidy's Brickmakers
Traditional pub near Jane Austen’s house, serving British classics, ales and Sunday roasts in a characterful historic setting.
The Greyfriar
Refined modern British dining in an elegant country house setting. Known for carefully cooked seasonal dishes and a polished atmosphere.
Prezzo Alton
Popular Italian restaurant with pizzas, pasta and a relaxed family-friendly atmosphere in central Alton.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for southern England. Hotels and pubs cost more than smaller UK towns, but local buses and casual dining stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis, and cafes usually only get spare change or no tip.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.50
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Alton Railway Station -> Alton High Street, Alton
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless card payment is widely accepted on Stagecoach buses in Alton. Ask the driver for the cheapest suitable ticket if unsure.
- Alton is compact and many central trips are walkable from the railway station. Check live bus times in the Stagecoach Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Alton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Alton 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 Alton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Alton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $60 (€48), while the average price is around $88 (€71).
The train from Manchester to Alton takes 4h 26m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Manchester to Alton is 169 miles (273 km).
The first train from Manchester to Alton leaves at 5:02 AM.
The last train from Manchester to Alton leaves at 8:11 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Alton.
There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Alton.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Alton.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Alton is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), which connects to Alton station (AON).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Alton is by bus, with a cost of around $27 (€22).
The train journey from Manchester to Alton offers picturesque views, especially through the rolling countryside and charming villages of the Peak District, providing a scenic experience.
A day trip from Manchester to Alton is not feasible because the journey duration is 4h 26m. Trains run 5 times per day over a distance of 169 miles (273 km).
To fully enjoy Alton's attractions, such as the Alton Towers Theme Park and the historic Alton Castle, spending 2 to 3 days would be ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Alton.
Since neither Manchester nor Alton 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 Alton include London, Aldershot, Surbiton, Woking, Farnham.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Alton 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 Alton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas and avoid unlicensed taxis to prevent fare scams. It's advisable to stay aware of surroundings, especially near popular attractions, and secure personal belongings to reduce the risk of petty theft.
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 to Alton
Most Manchester to Alton trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Alton station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Alton 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 Alton
Which Manchester station do trains to Alton leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Alton leave from Manchester Piccadilly. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Manchester city centre at Piccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom.
Manchester PiccadillyPiccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Piccadilly from Manchester city centre
Bus201, 203, 202, 205 · 1m · $2 · every ~56 min
TramBlue Line, Red Line, Pink Line, Purple Line, Yellow Line · 3m · $2 · every ~47 min
Manchester Piccadilly 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 and drink
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
Wi-Fi and ATMs
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.
Tickets and information
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 and lost property
Luggage storage is operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Piccadilly: There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly, Premier Inn Manchester City, Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly.
Manchester AirportManchester Airport station, Malaga Avenue, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M90 3RR
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester Airport is 13 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · $6 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · $1 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · $2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · $2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · $5 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · $5 · every ~8 min
Manchester Airport train station facilities and services
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
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Airport.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Manchester Airport. ATMs are available at Manchester Airport.
Tickets and information
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.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Airport: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Airport: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
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 VictoriaManchester Victoria station, Station Approach, Todd Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 1WY
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Victoria from Manchester city centre
TrainManchester Airport - Redcar Central, Manchester Airport - Saltburn, Manchester Airport - York, Manchester Piccadilly - York, Manchester Piccadilly - Redcar Central, Manchester Airport - Darlington, Manchester Airport - Sheffield, Liverpool Lime Street - Manchester Victoria, Manchester Airport - Scarborough, Manchester Airport - Hull, Manchester Airport - Huddersfield, Manchester Airport - Middlesbrough, Manchester Airport - Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester Airport - Leeds, Manchester Airport - Manchester Victoria · 10m · $1 · every ~3 min
Bus41, 135 · 5m · $2 · every ~32 min
T1 · 10m
X43 · 29m · every ~1 min
TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 5m · $2 · every ~23 min
Manchester Victoria train station facilities and services
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
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Victoria.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Victoria.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Victoria: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Victoria: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
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.
Which Alton station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Alton arrive at Alton. Alton is 0 miles (1 km) from Alton city centre.
AltonAlton station, Station Road, Alton, Hampshire, GU34 2PZ
City-centre transport
Getting to Alton from Alton city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation Forecourt, Station Road
Alton train station facilities and services
Alton has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Alton.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Alton.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Alton.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Alton: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Alton: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Alton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station. Level access to Platform 1. Lifts to Platform 2, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Alton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Alton and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Alton
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