- Must visit
Dean Castle
The town's leading museum in Dean Castle Country Park, showcasing local history, decorative arts, and musical instruments in a castle setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Kilmarnock
Showing times and prices for Aug 01
Cheapest price
$65
Average price
$80
Fastest journey
4 h 57 m
Average duration
5 h 38 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
278 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Kilmarnock is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Kilmarnock will cost around $80 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $65.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Manchester for Kilmarnock on Sat, Aug 01, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 01 the direct trains cover the 278 km distance in an average of 5 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 57 m .
On Sat, Aug 01 the slowest trains will take 6 h 18 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
8:24 AM4h57Manchester1:21 PMKilmarnock$651One-way0 transfers
8:33 AM6h18Manchester2:51 PMKilmarnock$961One-way0 transfers
- 8:24 AM4h57Manchester1:21 PMKilmarnock$651One-way0 transfers
- 8:33 AM6h18Manchester2:51 PMKilmarnock$961One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Kilmarnock
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Kilmarnock run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:57, the last at 18:59. The fastest train covers the 172 miles (278 km) distance in 4h 14m.
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
Distance 172 miles (278 km) |
Average train duration 4h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€31) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 4h 14m |
First train 4:57 AM |
Last train 6:59 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
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
Live departures
Manchester to Kilmarnock train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Kilmarnock trains for tomorrow, Saturday, August 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:24 AM Manchester | 4h57 | 1:21 PM Kilmarnock | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:33 AM Manchester | 6h18 | 2:51 PM Kilmarnock | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Manchester to Kilmarnock trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express and more offer trains services from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
Why book with Omio vs Transpennine Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transpennine Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
- 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 Transpennine Express with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited or TransPennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
- 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 Kilmarnock.
Train companies: Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express from Manchester to Kilmarnock trainsTranspennine Express, Avanti West Coast, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Manchester and Kilmarnock from $38 (€31). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
4h 33m
Cheapest Price
$96 (€78)
Transpennine Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
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 Duration
4h 57m
Cheapest Price
$65 (€53)
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
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest Price
$127 (€104)
Northern Trains Limited frequency
11 a day
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 36m
Cheapest Price
$139 (€113)
TransPennine Express frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Kilmarnock
Things to do in Kilmarnock
Discover the best of Kilmarnock — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Kilmarnock trip today.
- Must visit
Dumfries House
Nearby stately home with curated interiors and collections, giving context to Ayrshire aristocratic life and design.
- Recommended
Auchinleck House
Small local museum interpreting the life and work of rural poet Sir Alexander Boswell within the historic estate near Kilmarnock.
- Must visit
Dean Castle Country Park
Large country park with woodland walks, gardens, play areas, and the castle. Kilmarnock's standout green escape for families and walkers.
- Recommended
King Street
Historic town-centre street lined with traditional buildings, shops, and civic landmarks, ideal for understanding Kilmarnock's urban character.
- Recommended
Kay Park
Popular local park with open lawns, mature trees, sports facilities, and pleasant paths close to the town centre.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Irn-Bru
A soft fruit drink created in Kilmarnock in 1901. It is a proud local icon, strongly linked to the town’s identity and Ayrshire nostalgia.
Haggis, Neeps And Tatties
Scotland’s national dish of minced sheep offal with oats, suet, and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties and common in local pubs.
Mince And Tatties Pie
An Ayrshire classic of minced beef and gravy topped with mashed potato, baked until golden. It is hearty comfort food found across local menus.
La Dragon
Established Italian restaurant known for pasta, pizza, and relaxed dining. A dependable local favourite for casual meals in the town centre.
The Balti House
Popular Indian restaurant with a strong local reputation for curries, tandoori dishes, and friendly service in an informal atmosphere.
The Blues Restaurant
Stylish contemporary venue at The Park Hotel, serving Scottish and European dishes in a polished but approachable setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels are often cheaper than major cities, while dining and local transport are similar to other Scottish towns.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up in taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.80
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Kilmarnock Railway Station -> Kilmarnock Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on most Stagecoach West Scotland buses in Kilmarnock. Ask the driver for the cheapest fare if unsure.
- Kilmarnock is compact, and the rail station is a short walk from the town centre. Check live bus times in the Stagecoach Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Kilmarnock
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Kilmarnock can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€31), while the average price is around $82 (€67).
The train from Manchester to Kilmarnock takes 4h 14m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Manchester to Kilmarnock is 172 miles (278 km).
The first train from Manchester to Kilmarnock leaves at 4:57 AM.
The last train from Manchester to Kilmarnock leaves at 6:59 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Kilmarnock is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), which connects to Kilmarnock station (KMK).
The train journey from Manchester to Kilmarnock offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Lake District and the rolling hills of southern Scotland, providing a visually appealing travel experience.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Kilmarnock.
Popular day trips by train from Kilmarnock include Glasgow, Carlisle, Edinburgh, Troon, Dumfries.
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 Kilmarnock, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas and on public transport. It's advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated places at night. Scams are relatively uncommon but staying alert to unsolicited offers or overly aggressive street vendors helps 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 Kilmarnock
Most Manchester to Kilmarnock trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Kilmarnock station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Kilmarnock 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 Kilmarnock
Which Manchester station do trains to Kilmarnock leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Kilmarnock 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 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.
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.
Manchester AirportManchester Airport station, Malaga Avenue, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M90 3RR
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester Airport from Manchester city centre
Manchester Airport is 13 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · $6 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · $1 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · $2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · $2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · $5 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · $5 · every ~8 min
Manchester Airport train station facilities and services
Manchester Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Manchester Airport.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Manchester Airport. ATMs are available at Manchester Airport.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester Airport. Information desks are information available from staff: ,Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 107 2149, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester Airport: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Manchester Airport: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Airport: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: re Step free access is provided from the Ground Transport Interchange to all platforms via lifts or ramps. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance from Meeting Point 1 (adjacent to the Station Booking Office) and throughout the railway station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Customers requiring assistance should make themselves known to station staff no less than 20 minutes prior to the departure time of their train. Customers requiring assistance to access other services or to connect with terminals should request this from their airline or Manchester Airport Group. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay). Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible public telephones: In the station cafe on platforms 2 and 3, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Which Kilmarnock station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Kilmarnock arrive at Kilmarnock. Kilmarnock is from Kilmarnock city centre.
KilmarnockKilmarnock station, Hill Street, Kilmarnock, East Ayrshire, KA1 2AF
City-centre transport
Getting to Kilmarnock from Kilmarnock city centre
Bus3, 6, 7 · 37m · $2 · every ~23 min
Kilmarnock train station facilities and services
Kilmarnock has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Kilmarnock.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Kilmarnock.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Kilmarnock. 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 Kilmarnock: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Kilmarnock: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Kilmarnock: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. Level to platforms 1,2&3 underpass with lifts connecting platform 4. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 6, 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.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Kilmarnock
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Kilmarnock and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Kilmarnock
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