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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Inverness
Showing times and prices for Jan 11
Cheapest price
$151
Average price
$166
Fastest journey
7 h 50 m
Average duration
8 h 29 m
Trains per day
5
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 $166 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $151.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Manchester to Inverness without transferring at least once.
L36966+
Y1194512:00PM8h10
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)08:10PMInverness station (INV)
$1511One-way
1 transfer
C43569+C41073+
Y39055 · Y3878601:17PM8h09
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)09:26PMInverness station (INV)
$1701One-way
3 transfers
L36563+C41063+Y3879911:20AM7h50
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)07:10PMInverness station (INV)
$1701One-way
2 transfers
L36862+C41118+Y7347301:45PM9h58
Manchester Victoria (MCV)11:43PMInverness station (INV)
$1701One-way
2 transfers
C00109+C41054+Y3879809:09AM8h16
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)05:25PMInverness station (INV)
$1701One-way
2 transfers
L36563+C41063+Y3879911:20AM7h50
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)07:10PMInverness station (INV)
$1701One-way
2 transfers
C43569+C41073+Y39055 · Y3878601:17PM8h09
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)09:26PMInverness station (INV)
$1701One-way
3 transfers
L36966+Y1194512:00PM8h10
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)08:10PMInverness station (INV)
$1511One-way
1 transfer
C00109+C41054+Y3879809:09AM8h16
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)05:25PMInverness station (INV)
$1701One-way
2 transfers
L36862+C41118+Y7347301:45PM9h58
Manchester Victoria (MCV)11:43PMInverness station (INV)
$1701One-way
2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Manchester to Inverness
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Inverness among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €19. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 0m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €19, and a flight costs an average of €89.
Distance: 287 miles (462 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€131 Average price | €51 Average price Cheapest | €233 Average price |
8h 11m Average total duration 7h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 48m Average total duration 8h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 0m Average total duration Fastest 2h 0m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 1.4 - 2.8kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Manchester to Inverness train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Inverness trains for today, Saturday, January 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 1:49 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L37180+C41052+Y38788 | On time 8:14 AM Manchester Victoria (MCV) | 8h48 | 5:02 PM Inverness station (INV) | 2 transfers | |
| L36841+C41111+Y38516 | On time 9:45 AM Manchester Victoria (MCV) | 9h54 | 7:39 PM Inverness station (INV) | 2 transfers | |
| L37185+Y11944 | On time 9:58 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 10h07 | 8:05 PM Inverness station (INV) | 1 transfer | |
| L36956+C41111+Y39180 · Y38790 | On time 10:00 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 8h26 | 6:26 PM Inverness station (INV) | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Inverness by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, 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.
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Why should you book Manchester to Inverness trains with Omio?
ScotRail as well as LNER, TransPennine Express and Caledonian Sleeper 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 LNER, TransPennine Express and Caledonian Sleeper 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 Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While ScotRail tickets can be bought on ScotRail's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of LNER, TransPennine Express and Caledonian Sleeper to help you choose the right option for your journey 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.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Manchester to Inverness?
The best time to book your train from Manchester to Inverness is 77 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Manchester to Inverness route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Manchester to Inverness per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Manchester to Inverness.
Trains
from $132Buses
from $29Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Inverness
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Inverness run on average 5 times per day, taking around 7h 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $75 (€61) but you can travel from only $24 (€19) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:07, the last at 18:52. The fastest train covers the 287 miles (462 km) distance in 7h 42m.
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 $24 (€19)
Distance 287 miles (462 km) |
Average train duration 7h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $75 (€61) |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 7h 42m |
First train 04:07 |
Last train 18:52 |
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 $24 (€19)
Train companies: ScotRail, LNER, TransPennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, first_transpennine_express from Manchester to Inverness trainsScotRail, LNER, TransPennine Express, Caledonian Sleeper, first_transpennine_express trains will get you between Manchester and Inverness from $24 (€19). 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
7h 30m
Cheapest Price
$162 (€131)
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
LNER
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 Duration
7h 42m
Cheapest Price
$75 (€61)
LNER 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
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
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 Duration
8h 40m
Cheapest Price
$109 (€88)
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
Caledonian Sleeper
About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 37m
Cheapest Price
$193 (€155)
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
first_transpennine_express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 38m
Cheapest Price
$197 (€159)
first_transpennine_express frequency
4 a day
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.
To experience the highlights of Inverness, 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient to explore the city, visit nearby attractions like Loch Ness, and enjoy local culture and cuisine.
A day trip from Manchester to Inverness is not feasible as the journey takes 7h 42m, covering a distance of 287 miles (462 km). Trains run 5 times per day.
In Inverness, visitors can explore the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to discover local history and art, enjoy performances at Eden Court Theatre, and take a leisurely walk on the Ness Islands. The Caledonian Canal offers scenic walks or boat trips, while the Merkinch Local Nature Reserve is perfect for wildlife exploration. Key sights include the historic Inverness Castle, the scenic Loch Ness, the informative Culloden Battlefield, the impressive Inverness Cathedral, and the ancient Clava Cairns.
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.
The distance by train from Manchester to Inverness is 287 miles (462 km).
There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Inverness.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Inverness can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $75 (€61), while the average price is around $162 (€131).
The first train from Manchester to Inverness leaves at 4:07 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Inverness.
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Inverness is by bus, with a cost of around $24 (€19).
The last train from Manchester to Inverness leaves at 6:52 PM.
The train from Manchester to Inverness takes 7h 42m and runs 5 per day.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Inverness is Manchester Oxford Road (MCO), which connects to Inverness station (INV).
There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Inverness.
Yes, there is a night train from Manchester to Inverness.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Manchester to Inverness
Manchester
Inverness
The major train station for departures in Manchester is Manchester Oxford Road. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester Oxford Road for your trip from Manchester to Inverness.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:30 - 22:40 Sunday 07:30 - 22:00
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: There will be no toilet provision at Manchester Oxford Road from 15th July to 25th July to allow for existing toilets to be refurbished
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: on Platform 4/5
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Manchester Oxford Road
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at the bus stops on Whitworth St West (200 yards from station) (station side for Liverpool, opposite side for Piccadilly)
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDining
ATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
- Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Wifi
- Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi.
Lockers
- Operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Dining
- Burger King
- Caffè Nero
- Carluccio’s
- Hotel Chocolat
- Starbucks
- The Pasty Shop
- Costa Coffee
- Pret a Manger
- Upper Crust
- McDonald's
- & more
Accessibility
- There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Hotel
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly
- Premier Inn Manchester City
- Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
- Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Information Desk
- Located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.
Public transit options for Manchester Piccadilly
- Bus lines: 1, 2, 3, 147
- Train lines: Northern, TransPennine Express, Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, East Midlands Trains, Transport for Wales
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rentalinformation
Address
Manchester Victoria station, Station Approach, Todd Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 1WYTicket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:30 - 22:00 Sunday 08:00 - 22:15
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: A key is available in the Duty's Manager's office.
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: on platform and approach
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Manchester Victoria
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick up point is on Station Approach (M3 1WY) directly outside the station main entrance, outside the M & S shop.
The major train station for arrivals in Inverness is Inverness. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Inverness for your journey to Inverness from Manchester.
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 20:30 Saturday 06:30 - 18:30 Sunday 09:15 - 20:20
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- 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 automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 3
- 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: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Concourse. The National key toilets are located on the Concourse; these toilets are operated by a radar key. Available between 0630 and 1930
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- 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, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Inverness
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Inverness
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Inverness and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Inverness
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