- Must visit
Manchester Art Gallery
Major art gallery and museum in Manchester with fine art, design and civic history collections. Worth visiting for breadth and a central location.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Atherton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 23
Cheapest price on Sep 23
$6
Average ticket price on Sep 23
$6
Fastest journey on Sep 23
24 m
Average journey duration on Sep 23
26 m
Trains on Sep 23
2
Distance
18 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Atherton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Atherton will cost around $6 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $6.
Fast trains
On Wed, Sep 23, we found 2 trains from Manchester to Atherton, including 2 direct services.
On Wed, Sep 23 the direct trains cover the 18 km distance in an average of 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 24 m .
On Wed, Sep 23 the slowest trains will take 27 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.
3:55 PM0h27Manchester4:22 PMAtherton$61One-way0 transfers- 7:28 PM0h24Manchester7:52 PMAtherton$61One-way0 transfers
- 7:28 PM0h24Manchester7:52 PMAtherton$61One-way0 transfers
- 3:55 PM0h27Manchester4:22 PMAtherton$61One-way0 transfers
Live departures
Manchester to Atherton train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Atherton trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, September 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:55 PM Manchester | 0h27 | 4:22 PM Atherton | 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 Atherton by train
Compare train 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 23
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Why should you book Manchester to Atherton trains with Omio?
Northern Rail operates all trains services from Manchester to Atherton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Atherton.
Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?
- 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Atherton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Atherton run on average 2 times per day, taking around 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $5 (€4) if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:07, the last at 23:40. The fastest train covers the 11 miles (18 km) distance in 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
Distance 11 miles (18 km) |
Average train duration 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $5 (€4) |
Trains per day 2 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 26m |
First train 4:07 AM |
Last train 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 35 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
Train companies: Northern Rail from Manchester to Atherton trainsNorthern Rail trains will get you between Manchester and Atherton from $5 (€4). 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
26m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
$5 (€4)
Northern Rail frequency
2 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
Complete guide to Atherton
Things to do in Atherton
Discover the best of Atherton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Atherton trip today.
- Recommended
Leigh Local History Museum
Local history museum in nearby Leigh with exhibits on mining, industry and everyday life. A strong introduction to the area's social and industrial past.
- Recommended
Museum of Wigan Life
Gallery and museum in Wigan showing local history displays and changing art exhibitions. Useful for understanding the wider borough around Atherton.
- Recommended
Central Park
Popular local park with woodland, paths, play areas and sports facilities. Good for a relaxed walk and a feel for everyday Atherton life.
- Recommended
Cutacre Country Park
Scenic local nature area with ponds, woodland and walking routes on a reclaimed industrial site. Worth visiting for wildlife and peaceful trails.
Leigh Branch Canal
Linear waterside route near Atherton offering easy walks along the canal. A pleasant option for exercise, birdwatching and industrial landscape views.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
A hearty Lancashire stew of lamb or mutton, onions and root vegetables, slowly baked. It is a classic Greater Manchester comfort dish with strong regional roots.
- Gluten-free
Bury Black Pudding
A traditional black pudding from nearby Bury, made with pork blood, fat and oats. It is one of the area’s most iconic breakfast and market foods.
- Gluten-free
Tripe And Onions
Tripe cooked with onions, often in milk or served with vinegar. Once a staple across Lancashire mill towns, it remains a distinctive old regional specialty.
Istanblue
Casual Turkish and Mediterranean spot serving kebabs, grills and meze in a modern, family-friendly setting.
Bilash
Reliable local Indian restaurant known for curries, grilled dishes and a comfortable dining room popular with residents.
The Junction Inn
Traditional pub venue for classic British meals, drinks and a relaxed local atmosphere suited to lunch or dinner.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Meals and coffee are fairly priced, and local transport is manageable. Accommodation is usually cheaper than in major cities like Manchester or London.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £6-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis, and cafes usually just use a small tip jar.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £5.60
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Atherton station -> Manchester Piccadilly, Manchester
- Distance
- 21 km
- Travel time
- 25 min
Best option: Northern train to Manchester city centre
- Price
- £5.60
- Duration
- 25 min
- Use contactless tap and go on Bee Network buses and trams. Rail contactless is not yet available across Greater Manchester.
- A train ticket to Manchester city centre from Atherton includes free travel on Metrolink within the City Zone.
FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Atherton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Atherton 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 Atherton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Atherton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $5 (€4), while the average price is around $5 (€4).
The train from Manchester to Atherton takes 26m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Manchester to Atherton is 11 miles (18 km).
The first train from Manchester to Atherton leaves at 4:07 AM.
The last train from Manchester to Atherton leaves at 11:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Atherton.
Yes, there is a direct train from Manchester to Atherton. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Northern Rail.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Atherton.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Atherton is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), which connects to Atherton station (ATN).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Atherton is by train, with a cost of around $5 (€4).
The train journey from Manchester to Atherton primarily passes through urban and suburban areas, offering views of residential neighborhoods, industrial sites, and some green spaces, but it is not typically considered a scenic route.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Atherton.
Popular day trips by train from Atherton include Wigan, Leeds, Swinton, Liverpool, Blackpool.
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 Atherton, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and public transportation. Scams involving overcharging for taxi rides or unofficial transport services have been reported, so it's advisable to use registered providers. Additionally, travelers should stay aware of their surroundings, avoid isolated areas after dark, and secure personal belongings to 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 to Atherton
Most Manchester to Atherton trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Hag Fold station pair, with some services arriving at Atherton. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Atherton 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 Atherton
Which Manchester station do trains to Atherton leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Atherton 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 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.
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.
Which Atherton station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Atherton most often arrive at Atherton. Some services arrive at Hag Fold, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Atherton arrival station.
AthertonAtherton station, Upton Road, Atherton, Lancashire, M46 9RH+44 8454014015
City-centre transport
Getting to Atherton from Atherton city centre
Atherton is 1 km from Atherton city centre. Public transport options include:
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesPick Up / Drop Off outside station booking office entrance.
MetroGMPTE 0161 228 7811
Atherton train station facilities and services
Atherton has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Atherton.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Atherton.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Atherton: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Atherton: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Atherton: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station Lift access to platforms available from the first to the last train, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Hag FoldHag Fold station, Spa Road, Hag Fold, Greater Manchester, M46 9WX
City-centre transport
Getting to Hag Fold from Atherton city centre
Hag Fold is 1 km from Atherton city centre. Public transport options include:
Onward travel informationOn Spa Road for buses to Bolton or Atherton. Busline 0870 608 2608
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesPick Up / Drop Off at bus stops under railway bridge. (Station side for Wigan, opposite side for Manchester)
MetroGMPTE 0161 608 2608
Hag Fold train station facilities and services
Hag Fold has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Ticket Office.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Hag Fold.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Hag Fold: Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Hag Fold: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B station, Services towards Manchester: Up a ramp (11 paces, 1:10 slope) then up a further ramp (79 paces, average 1:20 slope) onto the platform. Services towards Wigan :Through a 3ft gate, up a ramp (104 paces, average 1:20 slope) onto the platform, Accessible public telephones: The highest operating part of the telephone is 1140 mm above floor level, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Atherton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Atherton and Manchester
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