MANCHESTER to INVERNESS train from $20 with Scotrail

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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Inverness

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13

Cheapest price on Oct 13

$89

Average ticket price on Oct 13

$176

Fastest journey on Oct 13

7 h 5 m

Average journey duration on Oct 13

7 h 50 m

Trains on Oct 13

Distance

462 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester to Inverness will cost around $176 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $89.

Fast trains

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

P24194+G80228+W33941
9:46 AM10h22
Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)
8:08 PMInverness station (INV)
$891One-way
2 transfers
W83178 · C14694+W85168
8:24 AM7h05
Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)
3:29 PMInverness station (INV)
$1561One-way
2 transfers
L87274+C24895+G66987
9:00 AM8h02
Manchester Victoria (MCV)
5:02 PMInverness station (INV)
$1901One-way
2 transfers
L87274+W85168
8:24 AM8h38
Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)
5:02 PMInverness station (INV)
$2061One-way
1 transfer
G89045+L87274+W85177
9:56 AM7h06
Deansgate (DGT)
5:02 PMInverness station (INV)
$2061One-way
2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Inverness

United Kingdom

Trains from Manchester to Inverness run on average 5 times per day, taking around 7h 19m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $43 but you can travel from only $20 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 01:35, the last at 18:52. The fastest train covers the 287 miles (462 km) distance in 6h 15m.

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 $20

Distance

287 miles (462 km)

Average train duration

7h 19m

Cheapest ticket price

$43

Trains per day

Fastest train

6h 15m

First train

1:35 AM

Last train

6:52 PM

Cheapest Month

Jan

Cheapest Day

Sun

High Season

Jul - Sep

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Mon

Least Busy Day

Tue

Best time to book

21 days

Price information

Cheapest alternative travel mode

Bus from $20

Live departures

Manchester to Inverness train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Inverness trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, October 13. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
W85168+L87274	8:24 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)	8h38	5:02 PM Inverness station (INV)	1 transfer
W85168+W83178 · C14694	8:24 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)	7h05	3:29 PM Inverness station (INV)	2 transfers
C04439+W34144+L87274	8:41 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)	8h21	5:02 PM Inverness station (INV)	2 transfers
C24895+G66987+L87274	9:00 AM Manchester Victoria (MCV)	8h02	5:02 PM Inverness station (INV)	2 transfers
P24194+W33941+G80228	9:46 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)	10h22	8:08 PM Inverness station (INV)	2 transfers
G89045+W85177+L87274	9:56 AM Deansgate (DGT)	7h06	5:02 PM Inverness station (INV)	2 transfers
This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Manchester to Inverness trains with Omio?

Scotrail as well as London North Eastern Railway, Transpennine Express, CrossCountry, Lumo and more offer trains services from Manchester to Inverness.

Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Inverness.

Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Scotrail, but also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway, Transpennine Express, CrossCountry or Lumo to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Inverness.
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, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Inverness.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of London North Eastern Railway, Transpennine Express, CrossCountry or Lumo to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Inverness.
Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Inverness.

Train companies: Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Transpennine Express, Lumo, Avanti West Coast from Manchester to Inverness trainsScotrail, London North Eastern Railway, CrossCountry, Transpennine Express, Lumo, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Manchester and Inverness from $20. 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 Scotrail Duration

6h 15m

Cheapest Scotrail Price

$73

Scotrail frequency

3 a day

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

Learn more about Scotrail

London North Eastern Railway

About

LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average London North Eastern Railway Duration

6h 33m

Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price

$43

London North Eastern Railway frequency

1 a day

Luggage included

2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included

Luggage storage

Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats

Cancellation Policy

Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions

Refund

Full refund available if train is cancelled

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments

Seat reservation

Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route

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 pets per passenger

Quiet zone

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

7h 36m

Cheapest CrossCountry Price

$126

CrossCountry frequency

1 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

Learn more about CrossCountry

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

6h 40m

Cheapest Transpennine Express Price

$84

Transpennine Express frequency

1 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

Learn more about Transpennine Express

Lumo

About

Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Lumo Duration

6h 36m

Cheapest Lumo Price

$104

Lumo frequency

1 a day

Luggage included

One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included

Luggage storage

Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages

Cancellation Policy

Refunds according to ticket type conditions

Refund

Full refund if train is cancelled by operator

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments

Seat reservation

Seat reservation included with all tickets

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding

Pets

Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee

Quiet zone

Learn more about Lumo

Avanti West Coast

About

Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.

Luggage & cancellation policy

Average Avanti West Coast Duration

6h 30m

Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price

$189

Avanti West Coast frequency

2 a day

Luggage included

2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included

Luggage storage

Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats

Cancellation Policy

Cancellation policies depend on ticket type

Refund

Full refund if train cancelled

Amenities on board the train

Wifi

Food sold onboard

First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks

Seat reservation

First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12

Toilets

USB plugs

Accessibility

Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available

Pets

Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free

Quiet zone

Learn more about Avanti West Coast

Complete guide to Inverness

Things to do in Inverness

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

Must visit

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

The city's main museum, covering Highland history, archaeology, art, and local culture in a central Victorian building.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

Culloden Visitor Centre

A modern visitor centre exploring the Battle of Culloden through artefacts, immersive displays, and Jacobite history.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

The Highlanders' Museum

A compact military museum telling the story of the Queen's Own Highlanders and local regimental heritage.

View on map Visit website

British Pound Sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels can rise in peak season, but dining and local buses are usually reasonable for tourists.

Average meal costs

Budget: £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range: £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: £45+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee: £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Cafes: round up or leave small change. Taxis: round up or tip about 10%.

FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Inverness

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

Train ticket prices from Manchester to Inverness can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $43, while the average price is around $166.

The train from Manchester to Inverness takes 6h 15m and runs 5 per day.

The first train from Manchester to Inverness leaves at 1:35 AM.

The distance by train from Manchester to Inverness is 287 miles (462 km).

The last train from Manchester to Inverness leaves at 6:52 PM.

There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Inverness.

There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Inverness.

Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Inverness.

The train station in Manchester that goes to Inverness is Manchester Victoria (MCV), which connects to Inverness station (INV).

Yes, the train journey from Manchester to Inverness is considered scenic, as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Pennines, the Yorkshire Dales, and the Scottish Highlands, offering stunning views of rolling hills, rugged mountains, and serene lochs.

Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Inverness.

Popular day trips by train from Inverness include Invergordon, Aviemore, Elgin, Nairn, Pitlochry.

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 Inverness, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport hubs. Some visitors report occasional overcharging by taxi drivers, so it’s advisable to agree on fares beforehand or use licensed services. Always be aware of your surroundings at night and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas. Standard travel safety practices help ensure a secure 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 Inverness

Most Manchester to Inverness trains use the Manchester Victoria to Inverness station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Inverness 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 Inverness

Which Manchester station do trains to Inverness leave from?

Trains from Manchester to Inverness 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 Parking

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.

More about Manchester Victoria

Manchester PiccadillyPiccadilly Station Approach, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M60 7RA, United Kingdom+44 3457114141 Wifi

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.