Manchester to Dorchester train with CrossCountry

Sun, Sep 20
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CrossCountry
South Western Railway
Transport for Wales
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
South Western Railway
Transport for Wales
Great Western Railway
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Dorchester

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

$80

Average ticket price on Sep 20

$174

Fastest journey on Sep 20

5 h 26 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

5 h 43 m

Trains on Sep 20

12

Distance

308 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester to Dorchester will cost around $174 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $80.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Manchester to Dorchester without transferring at least once.

  • CrossCountryG01036+South Western RailwayL80266
    5:25 PM5h59
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    11:24 PMDorchester South (DCH)
    $801One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG01034+South Western RailwayL80246
    4:25 PM5h59
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    10:24 PMDorchester South (DCH)
    $801One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38930+Great Western RailwayW35050 · C47819
    4:30 PM6h25
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    10:55 PMDorchester West (DCW)
    $981One-way
    2 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG38918+Great Western RailwayC47818 · W35018
    12:31 PM7h20
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    7:51 PMDorchester West (DCW)
    $981One-way
    2 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG38897+South Western RailwayL80194+Great Western RailwayW35012
    11:29 AM7h55
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    7:24 PMDorchester South (DCH)
    $981One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Manchester to Dorchester

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Dorchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $59 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 2h 53m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $59, while a train costs an average of $297.

Distance: 191 miles (308 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight

$297

Average price

$59

Average price

Cheapest

$220

Average price

6h 0m

Average total duration

5h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 35m

Average total duration

10h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 53m

Average total duration

Fastest

53m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Loganair

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Dorchester is a bus with an average price of $59.

This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Dorchester:

A bus is $161 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Dorchester costing on average $220.

A bus is $238 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Dorchester costing on average $297.

The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Dorchester is by flight with an average journey time of 53m.

Other travel options to Dorchester take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 30m.

Bus takes on average 10h 5m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Dorchester including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Dorchester among Omio's users.

Live departures

Manchester to Dorchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Dorchester trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Avanti West CoastW33397+Great Western RailwayW34762+South Western RailwayL80111+TubeTube from London Euston to London Paddington
Delayed
7:13 AM 8:14 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
6h08
2:22 PM Dorchester South (DCH)
4 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33397+South Western RailwayL80255+TubeTube from London Euston to London Waterloo
Delayed
7:13 AM 8:14 AMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
6h35
2:49 PM Dorchester South (DCH)
2 transfers
Sunday, September 20
Transport for WalesG38897+Great Western RailwayW35012+South Western RailwayL8019411:29 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
7h55
7:24 PM Dorchester South (DCH)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38918+Great Western RailwayW35018 · C4781812:31 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
7h20
7:51 PM Dorchester West (DCW)2 transfers
CrossCountryG01026+South Western RailwayL801941:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
5h59
7:24 PM Dorchester South (DCH)1 transfer
CrossCountryW29887+Great Western RailwayC478182:03 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
5h48
7:51 PM Dorchester West (DCW)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01029 · G01152+Great Western RailwayC478182:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
5h26
7:51 PM Dorchester West (DCW)2 transfers
CrossCountryG01029+South Western RailwayL802062:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
5h59
8:24 PM Dorchester South (DCH)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01030+South Western RailwayL802263:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
5h59
9:24 PM Dorchester South (DCH)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01034+South Western RailwayL802464:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
5h59
10:24 PM Dorchester South (DCH)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38930+Great Western RailwayW35050 · C478194:30 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
6h25
10:55 PM Dorchester West (DCW)2 transfers
CrossCountryW29907+Great Western RailwayC478195:03 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
5h52
10:55 PM Dorchester West (DCW)1 transfer
CrossCountryG01036 · G01165+Great Western RailwayC478195:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
5h30
10:55 PM Dorchester West (DCW)2 transfers
CrossCountryG01036+South Western RailwayL802665:25 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
5h59
11:24 PM Dorchester South (DCH)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Dorchester 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.

Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26

Why should you book Manchester to Dorchester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as South Western Railway, Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway and more offer trains services from Manchester to Dorchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Dorchester.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway, Transport for Wales or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Dorchester.
  • 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Dorchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of South Western Railway, Transport for Wales or Great Western Railway to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Dorchester.
  • 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 Dorchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Dorchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Manchester to Dorchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $98 but you can travel from only $59 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 05:11, the last at 22:14. The fastest train covers the 191 miles (308 km) distance in 4h 53m.

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 $59
Distance
191 miles (308 km)
Average train duration
5h 30m
Cheapest ticket price
$98
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
4h 53m
First train
5:11 AM
Last train
10:14 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
77 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $59

Train companies: CrossCountry, South Western Railway, Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway from Manchester to Dorchester trainsCrossCountry, South Western Railway, Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Manchester and Dorchester from $59. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
5h 6m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$291
CrossCountry frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

South Western Railway

About
South Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom, providing services in the south and south-west of England. It operates a variety of train types, including high-speed trains, local stopping services, and suburban commuter trains. It also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for South Western Railway include London Waterloo to Portsmouth Harbour, London Waterloo to Weymouth, and London Waterloo to Bournemouth.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average South Western Railway Duration
5h 14m
Cheapest South Western Railway Price
$406
South Western Railway frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and designated luggage areas at end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund depends on ticket type and timing of cancellation
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service with hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee, free for some ticket types
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free, dogs must be on lead
Quiet zone

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
6h 36m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$98
Transport for Wales frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Great Western Railway

About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
4h 53m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$291
Great Western Railway frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Complete guide to Dorchester

Things to do in Dorchester

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

  • Must visit

Dorset Museum & Art Gallery

Modern county museum showcasing Dorset archaeology, geology, literature, and local history through well-curated galleries and family displays.

  • Recommended

Shire Hall Museum

Museum in the old courthouse exploring justice, prisons, and civil rights, including the Tolpuddle Martyrs story and historic cells.

  • Recommended

Max Gate

National Trust house designed by Thomas Hardy, preserved with original interiors and personal objects reflecting his life and work.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for southern England. Hotels and dining cost more than many UK towns, but buses are affordable and budget meals are easy to find.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
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

Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Cafes do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Dorchester

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Dorchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $98, while the average price is around $297.
The train from Manchester to Dorchester takes 4h 53m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Manchester to Dorchester is 191 miles (308 km).
The first train from Manchester to Dorchester leaves at 5:11 AM.
The last train from Manchester to Dorchester leaves at 10:14 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Dorchester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Dorchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Dorchester.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Dorchester is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), which connects to Dorchester South (DCH).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Dorchester is by bus, with a cost of around $59.
The train journey from Manchester to Dorchester offers a variety of scenic views, including stretches of rolling countryside, charming villages, and glimpses of the English landscape, making it a pleasant trip for those who appreciate natural and rural scenery.
A day trip from Manchester to Dorchester is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 53m one way. There are 6 trips per day by train over a distance of 191 miles (308 km).
To fully explore Dorchester's historical sites, museums, and local attractions, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Dorchester.
Since neither Manchester nor Dorchester 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 Dorchester include Bournemouth, Weymouth, Wareham, Branksome, Christchurch.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Dorchester 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 Dorchester, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and distractions used to steal personal belongings. It's advisable to use licensed transportation, keep valuables secure, and stay aware of surroundings to ensure a safe visit.
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 Dorchester

Most Manchester to Dorchester trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Dorchester South station pair, with some services arriving at Dorchester West. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Dorchester 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 Dorchester

Which Manchester station do trains to Dorchester leave from?

Trains from Manchester to Dorchester 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 3457114141WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
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.

More options for your journey from Manchester to Dorchester

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

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