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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Preston
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$11
Average price
$17
Fastest journey
34 m
Average duration
35 m
Trains per day
26
Distance
45 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Preston will cost around $17 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.
Fast trains
Of the 26 trains that leave Manchester for Preston on Tue, Jun 16, 26 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 16 the direct trains cover the 45 km distance in an average of 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 34 m .
On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest trains will take 36 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.
G895971:08 PM0h49Deansgate (DGT)1:57 PMPreston station (PRE)$111One-way0 transfers- G896021:39 PM0h46Deansgate (DGT)2:25 PMPreston station (PRE)$111One-way0 transfers
- G896142:39 PM0h46Deansgate (DGT)3:25 PMPreston station (PRE)$111One-way0 transfers
- G896173:08 PM0h50Deansgate (DGT)3:58 PMPreston station (PRE)$111One-way0 transfers
- G8959312:39 PM0h46Deansgate (DGT)1:25 PMPreston station (PRE)$121One-way0 transfers
W8518212:24 PM0h34Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)12:58 PMPreston station (PRE)$181One-way0 transfers- W851912:24 PM0h35Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)2:59 PMPreston station (PRE)$191One-way0 transfers
- W852065:24 PM0h35Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)5:59 PMPreston station (PRE)$221One-way0 transfers
- W851881:24 PM0h36Manchester Oxford Road (MCO)2:00 PMPreston station (PRE)$181One-way0 transfers
- G890511:56 PM0h36Deansgate (DGT)2:32 PMPreston station (PRE)$211One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Manchester to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 41m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $8, and a train costs an average of $5.
Distance: 27 miles (45 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$11 Average price | $11 Average price Cheapest | $12 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 11m Average total duration Fastest 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 43m Average total duration 1h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Preston is a bus with an average price of $11 (€9).
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Preston:
A bus is $0.49 (€0.40) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Preston costing on average $11 (€9).
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 41m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Bus takes on average 1h 13m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Preston including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Preston among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 19m faster (41m by train vs 1h 0m by car) and roughly $0.98 (€0.79) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($11 (€9) vs $12 (€10)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Direct services run with Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Manchester to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Preston trains for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G89560 | On time 8:38 AM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h48 | 9:26 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89062 | On time 8:56 AM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h37 | 9:33 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89564 | On time 9:08 AM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h49 | 9:57 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W85170 | On time 9:24 AM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO) | 0h36 | 10:00 AM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89543 | On time 4:08 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h50 | 4:58 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W85201 | On time 4:25 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO) | 0h36 | 5:01 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89546 | On time 4:39 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h49 | 5:28 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89055 | On time 4:56 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h36 | 5:32 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89550 | On time 5:08 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h50 | 5:58 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W85206 | On time 5:24 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO) | 0h35 | 5:59 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89554 | On time 5:39 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h49 | 6:28 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89069 | On time 5:56 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h39 | 6:35 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G89558 | On time 6:08 PM Deansgate (DGT) | 0h49 | 6:57 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W85208 | On time 6:24 PM Manchester Oxford Road (MCO) | 0h38 | 7:02 PM Preston station (PRE) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Preston by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Tue
Jun 16
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Why should you book Manchester to Preston trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Manchester to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Preston.
- 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 Northern Rail with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Trip or Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Preston run on average 9 times per day, taking around 41m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $5 (€4) if you book in advance.
There are 9 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:03, the last at 23:55. The fastest train covers the 27 miles (45 km) distance in 37m.
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 27 miles (45 km) |
Average train duration 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $5 (€4) |
Trains per day 9 |
Direct trains 9 |
Fastest train 37m |
First train 12:03 AM |
Last train 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 14 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
Train companies: Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited from Manchester to Preston trainsNorthern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Manchester and Preston from $5 (€4). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
37m
Cheapest Price
$5 (€4)
Northern Rail frequency
7 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
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 dogs 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
32m
Cheapest Price
$9 (€7)
Transpennine Express frequency
3 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
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
33m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
TransPennine Express frequency
6 a day
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
35m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
Northern Trains Limited frequency
18 a day
FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $5 (€4), while the average price is around $11 (€9).
The train from Manchester to Preston takes 37m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Manchester to Preston leaves at 12:03 AM.
The distance by train from Manchester to Preston is 27 miles (45 km).
The last train from Manchester to Preston leaves at 11:55 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Preston.
Yes, there is a direct train from Manchester to Preston. This service operates 9 times per day, provided by Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Preston.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Preston is Manchester Airport (MIA), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Preston is by train, with a cost of around $5 (€4).
The train journey from Manchester to Preston offers views of urban landscapes transitioning into more open countryside, providing a pleasant and varied scenery.
Yes, a day trip from Manchester to Preston is feasible, with a travel duration of 37m each way, covering a distance of 27 miles (45 km). Trains run 9 times per day.
To fully experience Preston's main attractions and local culture, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Preston.
Since neither Manchester nor Preston are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Preston include London, Bolton, Blackburn, Lancaster, Liverpool.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Preston among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Preston, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and bogus charity collectors. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help 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 Preston
Manchester
Preston
The major train station for departures in Manchester is Manchester Airport. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester Airport for your trip from Manchester to Preston.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Sunday 06:30 - 22:30
Distance to city center
13 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located at platform level, behind the lifts. The Ladies toilets are located at the end of Platform 3. The Gents toilets are located at the end of Platform 2. The National key toilets are located at platform level, behind the lifts, at the end of Platform 2; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National key toilets are located at platform level, behind the lifts, at the end of Platform 2; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: No cycle storage
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- 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
Public transit options for Manchester Airport
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail Replacement bus services depart from stands L & M of the adjacent Bus Station which is situated close to the ticket office.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWC
HotelTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike Rental
Car RentalInformation 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
ParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotel
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar 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)
The major train station for arrivals in Preston is Preston. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Preston for your journey to Preston from Manchester.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:30 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM Saturday
- 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24 hours, located adjacent to the station with access from Butler Street.
Dining
- Rise
- The Olive Tree Brasserie
- Turtle Bay
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps.
WC
- £0.30
Hotel
- Holiday Inn Express Preston - South
- Delta Hotels Preston
- Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-3 for long-distance services
- Hall 2: platforms 4-6 for regional and local services
Public transit options for Preston
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Northern, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express services
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Preston
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