- Must visit
West Highland Museum
Excellent local museum covering West Highland archaeology, Jacobites, geology, and mountain culture in a compact, well-curated town-center setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Fort William
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€153
Average price
€153
Fastest journey
8 h 10 m
Average duration
8 h 25 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
413 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Fort William is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Fort William will cost around €153 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €153.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Manchester to Fort William without transferring at least 2 times.
C14853_C14883+
W85188+
Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street1:24 PM8h42Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)10:06 PMFort William station (FTW)€1531One-way2 transfers- C14830_C14877+Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street+
G89042+
W340467:53 AM8h16Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)4:09 PMFort William station (FTW)€1531One-way3 transfers - C14830_C14877+W85165+Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street7:25 AM8h44Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)4:09 PMFort William station (FTW)€1531One-way2 transfers
- C15432 · W68451 · C14830_C14877+G890427:56 AM8h13Deansgate (DGT)4:09 PMFort William station (FTW)€1531One-way4 transfers
- W69826 · C14853_C14883+G89051+W341871:56 PM8h10Deansgate (DGT)10:06 PMFort William station (FTW)€1531One-way3 transfers
- W69826 · C14853_C14883+G89051+W341871:56 PM8h10Deansgate (DGT)10:06 PMFort William station (FTW)€1531One-way3 transfers
- C15432 · W68451 · C14830_C14877+G890427:56 AM8h13Deansgate (DGT)4:09 PMFort William station (FTW)€1531One-way4 transfers
- C14830_C14877+Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street+G89042+W340467:53 AM8h16Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)4:09 PMFort William station (FTW)€1531One-way3 transfers
- C14853_C14883+W85188+Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street1:24 PM8h42Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)10:06 PMFort William station (FTW)€1531One-way2 transfers
- C14830_C14877+W85165+Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street7:25 AM8h44Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)4:09 PMFort William station (FTW)€1531One-way2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Fort William
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Fort William run on average 2 times per day, taking around 7h 17m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €142 but you can travel from only €92 by flight.
The earliest train runs at 07:21, the last at 13:56. The fastest train covers the 256 miles (413 km) distance in 8h 6m.
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
Flight from €92
Distance 256 miles (413 km) |
Average train duration 7h 17m |
Cheapest ticket price €142 |
Trains per day 2 |
Fastest train 8h 6m |
First train 7:21 AM |
Last train 1:56 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 28 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
Flight from €92
Live departures
Manchester to Fort William train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Fort William trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W85165+Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street+C14830_C14877 | 7:25 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO) | 8h44 | 4:09 PM Fort William station (FTW) | 2 transfers | |
| G89042+W34046+Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street+C14830_C14877 | 7:53 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO) | 8h16 | 4:09 PM Fort William station (FTW) | 3 transfers | |
| G89042+W34046+C15432 · W68451 | 7:56 AM Deansgate (DGT) | 8h13 | 4:09 PM Fort William station (FTW) | 4 transfers | |
| G89071+W33935+C15446 · C14853_C14883 | 11:56 AM Deansgate (DGT) | 10h10 | 10:06 PM Fort William station (FTW) | 3 transfers | |
| W85188+Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street+C14853_C14883 | 1:24 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO) | 8h42 | 10:06 PM Fort William station (FTW) | 2 transfers | |
| G89051+W34187+W69826 · C14853_C14883 | 1:56 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 8h10 | 10:06 PM Fort William station (FTW) | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Manchester to Fort William trains with Omio?
Scotrail operates all trains services from Manchester to Fort William.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Fort William.
Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?
- 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 Scotrail with all available travel options, which are train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Fort William.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Fort William.
Train companies: Scotrail from Manchester to Fort William trainsScotrail trains will get you between Manchester and Fort William from €92. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Scotrail
About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 6m
Cheapest Price
€142
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
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 catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Fort William
Things to do in Fort William
Discover the best of Fort William — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Fort William trip today.
- Recommended
Ben Nevis Distillery Visitor Centre
Small distillery visitor center and museum displays explaining traditional whisky making, local ingredients, and the spirit’s role in Highland identity.
- Recommended
Glencoe Folk Museum
Community museum in nearby Glencoe telling the story of local people, landscape, mountaineering, and the area’s internationally known past.
- Must visit
Glen Nevis
Woodland glen just outside town with trails, river views, and a dramatic ruined fort. Combines nature, history, and an easy local escape.
- Recommended
High Street
Bustling main street lined with shops and historic buildings, ideal for orienting yourself and exploring the heart of Fort William on foot.
- Recommended
The Parade
Scenic lochside promenade with mountain views, seating, and easy walking. A favorite place for sunsets and watching changing Highland weather.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
Cullen skink is a rich smoked haddock, potato and onion soup from Scotland, prized for its warming flavour after wet Highland days.
Haggis, Neeps And Tatties
Haggis is Scotland’s iconic savoury pudding of oats, spices and offal, traditionally served with neeps and tatties in Highland pubs.
- Gluten-free
Highland Venison Stew
Venison stew uses Highland deer simmered with root vegetables. It reflects the area’s game tradition and suits Fort William’s rugged climate.
Seasgair By Michel Roux Jr
Refined dining room at Inverlochy Castle, noted for polished service and seasonal Scottish ingredients in an elegant country-house setting.
Crannog Seafood Restaurant
Well-regarded modern Scottish restaurant known for local seafood, Highland produce and a relaxed bistro feel in central Fort William.
Grog And Gruel
Established pub restaurant serving hearty Scottish classics, local ales and whisky in a traditional, lively High Street setting.
British Pound (£)
Moderate for the Highlands: lodging can be pricey in peak season, while pub meals and local buses are fairly typical for a tourist town.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £40+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a 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; cafes usually just small change.
Traveline Scotland
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.40
- Day pass
- :null
To the city center
Fort William Railway Station -> Fort William High Street
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Most local buses in Fort William are operated by Shiel Buses. Check timetables in advance because service frequencies can be limited.
- Contactless payment is commonly accepted on local buses, but carry a backup payment method in case card readers are unavailable.
FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Fort William
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Fort William 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 Fort William, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Fort William can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €142, while the average price is around €145.
The train from Manchester to Fort William takes 8h 6m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Manchester to Fort William is 256 miles (413 km).
The first train from Manchester to Fort William leaves at 7:21 AM.
The last train from Manchester to Fort William leaves at 1:56 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Fort William.
There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Fort William.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Fort William.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Fort William is Manchester Oxford Road (MCO), which connects to Fort William station (FTW).
Yes, the train journey from Manchester to Fort William is considered scenic, offering views of picturesque landscapes, including rolling hills, tranquil lakes, and rugged mountains, especially as it passes through the Scottish Highlands.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Fort William.
Popular day trips by train from Fort William include Mallaig, Glenfinnan, Tyndrum, Bridge of Orchy, Spean Bridge.
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 Fort William, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially in crowded areas and during popular events. It's important to use licensed taxi services and be wary of unofficial offers to avoid scams. When hiking or engaging in outdoor activities, travelers must prepare adequately for changing weather conditions 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 Fort William
Most Manchester to Fort William trains use the Manchester Oxford Road to Fort William station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Fort William 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 Fort William
Which Manchester station do trains to Fort William leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Fort William leave from Manchester Oxford Road. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Manchester city centre at Manchester Oxford Road station, Station Approach, Oxford Road, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 6FU.
Manchester Oxford RoadManchester Oxford Road station, Station Approach, Oxford Road, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 6FU
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Oxford Road from Manchester city centre
Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 5m · €2 · every ~224 min
T1 · 1h 7m
Manchester Oxford Road train station facilities and services
Manchester Oxford Road 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 Oxford Road.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Oxford Road.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Oxford Road: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - There are two lifts at the Piccadilly end of platform 4 and 2/3 which connect the concourse area platform 4 and 5 with 2/3. Note: there is no lift access to platform 1 at all, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
DeansgateDeansgate station, Whitworth Street West, Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4LG
City-centre transport
Getting to Deansgate from Manchester city centre
Deansgate is 1 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainManchester Airport - Corkickle, Manchester Airport - Blackpool North, Manchester Airport - Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester Airport - Barrow-in-Furness, Manchester Airport - Windermere, Wilmslow - Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester Airport - Preston, Stockport - Blackpool North · 5m · €1 · every ~7 min
Bus33, 255, 30 · 5m · €2 · every ~22 min
T1 · 1h 6m
TramBlue Line, Red Line, Pink Line, Purple Line · 6m · €2 · every ~38 min
Deansgate train station facilities and services
Deansgate has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Deansgate.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Deansgate.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Deansgate: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Deansgate: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Deansgate: 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 From Whitworth Street, up a ramp (43 paces, 1:25 slope) and level access through the entrance into the foyer. Or from the junction of Chester Road, Whitworth Street and Deansgate, level access through the entrance, along the corridor and up 21 steps into the foyer. Then, to Manchester: Past the ticket office, via the lift in the foyer. Or up a ramp (34 paces), up 17 steps onto the platform. To Bolton, Warrington and Wigan : Via the lift in the foyer or along the subway (26 paces), up a ramp (32 paces) and up 18 steps onto the platform. Level access to Manchester platform also via overbridge from Metrolink G-Mex Metrolink stop. Lift available first to last train, currently 06:20 - 23:40 Monday to Saturday. 08:10 - 23:30 Sunday, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, 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 · €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.
Which Fort William station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Fort William arrive at Fort William. Fort William is 0 miles (1 km) from Fort William city centre.
Fort WilliamFort William station, Tom-na-Faire, Station Square, Fort William, Highland, PH33 6TQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Fort William from Fort William city centre
Bus521, 147, 146, 46, 47, 522, X47 · 6m · €2 · every ~6 min
592 · 11m
Fort William train station facilities and services
Fort William has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Fort William.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Fort William.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Fort William. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Fort William: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Fort William: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Fort William: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 2, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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: No.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Fort William
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Fort William and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Fort William
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