- Recommended
Darwen Heritage Centre
Local history museum inside Darwen Library Theatre, covering the town’s industry, people, and civic story through compact displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Darwen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $4
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $6
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 40 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 42 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 5
- Distance
- 28 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Darwen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Darwen will cost around $6 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $4.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 5 trains from Manchester to Darwen, including 5 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 28 km distance in an average of 42 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 40 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 43 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.
6:14 AM 0h40 Manchester 6:54 AM Darwen $4 1 One-way 0 transfers10:43 AM 0h43 Manchester 11:26 AM Darwen $7 1 One-way 0 transfers8:43 AM 0h42 Manchester 9:25 AM Darwen $7 1 One-way 0 transfers6:43 PM 0h43 Manchester 7:26 PM Darwen $8 1 One-way 0 transfers11:14 PM 0h40 Manchester 11:54 PM Darwen $8 1 One-way 0 transfers
6:14 AM 0h40 Manchester 6:54 AM Darwen $4 1 One-way 0 transfers11:14 PM 0h40 Manchester 11:54 PM Darwen $8 1 One-way 0 transfers8:43 AM 0h42 Manchester 9:25 AM Darwen $7 1 One-way 0 transfers10:43 AM 0h43 Manchester 11:26 AM Darwen $7 1 One-way 0 transfers6:43 PM 0h43 Manchester 7:26 PM Darwen $8 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Darwen
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Darwen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $4 but you can travel from only $4 by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:24, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 17 miles (28 km) distance in 33m.
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 $4
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance17 miles (28 km)
- Average train duration48m
- Cheapest ticket price$4
- Trains per day6
- Direct trains5
- Fastest train33m
- First train12:24 AM
- Last train11:55 PM
- Cheapest MonthJan
- Cheapest DaySun
- High SeasonOct - Dec
- Low SeasonJan - Mar
- Busiest DaySat
- Least Busy DayMon
- Best time to book21 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 $4
Frequently asked questions about your Manchester to Darwen trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Manchester to Darwen.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Darwen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $4, while the average price is around $12.
The train from Manchester to Darwen takes 33m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Manchester to Darwen leaves at 12:24 AM.
The distance by train from Manchester to Darwen is 17 miles (28 km).
The last train from Manchester to Darwen leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Manchester to Darwen. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Northern Rail.
Live departures
Manchester to Darwen train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Darwen trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:43 PM Manchester | 0h43 | 6:26 PM Darwen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, November 4 | |||||
| 6:14 AM Manchester | 0h40 | 6:54 AM Darwen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:43 AM Manchester | 0h42 | 9:25 AM Darwen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:43 AM Manchester | 0h43 | 11:26 AM Darwen | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Manchester to Darwen trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Transpennine Express offer trains services from Manchester to Darwen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Darwen.
Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Darwen.
- 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 Northern Rail with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Darwen.
Why book with Omio over Trip or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Darwen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Darwen.
Train companies
Train companies from Manchester to Darwen
Trains from Manchester to Darwen with Northern Rail and Transpennine Express. High-speed trains available on this route with Transpennine Express. Regional trains available on this route with Northern Rail. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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
33m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
$4
Northern Rail frequency
6 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
1h 30m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$29
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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Manchester and Darwen
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Manchester to Darwen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Darwen.
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.
Complete guide to Darwen
Things to do in Darwen
Discover the best of Darwen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Darwen trip today.
- Recommended
Blackburn Museum and Art Gallery
Major regional art gallery and museum with fine art, decorative arts, and Egyptology. A strong cultural visit close to Darwen.
- Recommended
Blackburn Transport Museum
Independent transport museum with buses, trams, and heritage vehicles. Popular with families and enthusiasts a short trip from Darwen.
- Must visit
Darwen Moor
Large moorland area above town with open walking routes, reservoirs, and expansive panoramas. Ideal for classic Darwen outdoor scenery.
- Must visit
Jubilee Tower Walk
Panoramic hill walk to Darwen’s landmark tower, rewarding visitors with some of the best viewpoints in the borough.
- Recommended
Bold Venture Park
Victorian public park with gardens, play areas, and pleasant walks. A favourite local green space close to central Darwen.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
A hearty Lancashire hotpot of lamb or mutton, onions and sliced potatoes, slow baked. It is one of Lancashire’s best known comfort dishes.
- Gluten-free
Black Pudding
Black pudding from nearby Bury is a regional staple made with blood, oats and seasoning. It is widely eaten in local breakfasts across Lancashire.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is a traditional Lancashire pie of potatoes, onion and butter. Created for Catholic meat free days, it remains a beloved local savoury bake.
Akbar's
Well known Indian restaurant in Darwen, popular for curries, grilled dishes and friendly service in a casual atmosphere.
The Anchor
Traditional pub in Darwen serving British classics, ales and hearty meals in a relaxed local setting.
La Roma
Established Italian restaurant in Darwen offering pasta, pizza and classic mains in a comfortable family friendly setting.
British Pound Sterling (£)
More affordable than major UK cities. Hotels, dining, and local transit usually cost less than in Manchester or London.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £6-10 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £40+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Darwen Railway Station -> Darwen Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in the area; buy before boarding only if the operator requires it.
- Darwen rail and bus fares are separate, so check the operator before travel if you need both on one trip.
Plan your visit to Darwen
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Darwen.
The train journey from Manchester to Darwen offers pleasant views of the English countryside, featuring rolling hills, green landscapes, and picturesque towns along the way.
Popular day trips by train from Darwen include Blackburn, Bolton, Colne, Accrington, Stockport.
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 Darwen, travelers should be aware of petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and around public transport hubs. It is advisable to stay vigilant when using taxis and to use licensed services to avoid overcharging scams. Additionally, travelers should be cautious of unsolicited offers and always keep personal belongings secure.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Darwen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Darwen 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 Darwen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Darwen.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Manchester to Darwen
Most Manchester to Darwen trains use the Manchester Victoria to Darwen station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Darwen 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 Darwen
Which Manchester station do trains to Darwen leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Darwen leave from Manchester Victoria. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Manchester city centre at Manchester Victoria station, Station Approach, Todd Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 1WY.
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 · $2 · every ~3 min
Bus41, 135 · 5m · $3 · every ~32 min
T1 · 10m
X43 · 29m · every ~1 min
TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 5m · $3 · 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 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 · $3 · every ~56 min
TramBlue Line, Red Line, Pink Line, Purple Line, Yellow Line · 3m · $3 · 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 · $2 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · $3 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · $3 · 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 Darwen station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Darwen arrive at Darwen. Darwen is from Darwen city centre.
DarwenDarwen Railway Station, Railway Road, Darwen, Lancashire, BB3 2RJ, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Darwen from Darwen city centre
BusSeveral local bus services available
Darwen train station facilities and services
Darwen has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bryan St Chippy, The Old Chapel Cafe
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Darwen. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Darwen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Darwen: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Darwen: Ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Astley Bank Hotel, Whitehall Hotel.
Train stations for Manchester to Darwen
Check train stations information for Manchester and Darwen, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Darwen is Manchester Victoria, which connects to Darwen.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
Most popular trains to and from Darwen and Manchester
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