- Recommended
Bassetlaw Museum
Local history museum inside a historic townhouse. Exhibits cover Retford's civic past, industries, and everyday life in an accessible central setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Retford
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 19
Cheapest price on Oct 19
$40
Average ticket price on Oct 19
$48
Fastest journey on Oct 19
1 h 52 m
Average journey duration on Oct 19
1 h 54 m
Trains on Oct 19
7
Distance
88 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Retford is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Retford will cost around $48 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $40.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Manchester to Retford without transferring at least once.
W84695+
W045112:13 PM2h03Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)4:16 PMRetford station (RET)$401One-way1 transfer- W84648+
G079556:10 AM2h00Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)8:10 AMRetford station (RET)$491One-way1 transfer 
C04350+
G89691+W045079:43 AM1h59Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)11:42 AMRetford station (RET)$491One-way2 transfers- W84665+L016289:13 AM1h52Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)11:05 AMRetford station (RET)$491One-way1 transfer
- W84689+C019181:13 PM1h53Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)3:06 PMRetford station (RET)$491One-way1 transfer
- W84665+L016289:13 AM1h52Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)11:05 AMRetford station (RET)$491One-way1 transfer
- W84689+C019181:13 PM1h53Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)3:06 PMRetford station (RET)$491One-way1 transfer
- W84677+L0163111:13 AM1h53Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1:06 PMRetford station (RET)$491One-way1 transfer
- W84653+L016247:12 AM1h54Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)9:06 AMRetford station (RET)$491One-way1 transfer
- C04350+G89691+W045079:43 AM1h59Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)11:42 AMRetford station (RET)$491One-way2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Retford
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Retford run on average 9 times per day, taking around 1h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $21 (€18) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 00:38, the last at 23:44. The fastest train covers the 54 miles (88 km) distance in 1h 27m.
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 54 miles (88 km) |
Average train duration 1h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€18) |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 1h 27m |
First train 12:38 AM |
Last train 11:44 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 2 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 Retford train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Retford trains for today, Sunday, October 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 10:17 PM Manchester | 7h31 | 5:48 AM Retford | 1 transfer | |
| 11:52 PM Manchester | 6h32 | 6:24 AM Retford | 1 transfer | |
| Monday, October 19 | |||||
| W84648+G07955 | 6:10 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2h00 | 8:10 AM Retford station (RET) | 1 transfer | |
| W84653+L01624 | 7:12 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1h54 | 9:06 AM Retford station (RET) | 1 transfer | |
| W84665+L01628 | 9:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1h52 | 11:05 AM Retford station (RET) | 1 transfer | |
| C04350+W04507+G89691 | 9:43 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1h59 | 11:42 AM Retford station (RET) | 2 transfers | |
| W84677+L01631 | 11:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1h53 | 1:06 PM Retford station (RET) | 1 transfer | |
| W84689+C01918 | 1:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 1h53 | 3:06 PM Retford station (RET) | 1 transfer | |
| W84695+W04511 | 2:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 2h03 | 4:16 PM Retford station (RET) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Manchester to Retford trains with Omio?
Transpennine Express as well as East Midlands Railway offer trains services from Manchester to Retford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Retford.
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 East Midlands Railway to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Retford.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Retford.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Retford.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Retford.
Train companies: Transpennine Express, East Midlands Railway from Manchester to Retford trainsTranspennine Express, East Midlands Railway trains will get you between Manchester and Retford from $21 (€18). 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 Transpennine Express Duration
1h 33m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$21 (€18)
Transpennine Express frequency
5 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
East Midlands Railway
About
East Midlands Trains is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to the East Midlands, Yorkshire, and the North West. East Midlands Trains operates a fleet of Class 158, Class 156, Class 170, Class 222 and Class 180 diesel multiple units, as well as Class 222 Meridian electric multiple units. East Midlands Trains also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for East Midlands Trains are London to Nottingham, Sheffield, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average East Midlands Railway Duration
1h 27m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$21 (€18)
East Midlands Railway frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 piece of hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for Advance ticket holders
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs must be on lead and require a ticket (£6 for day ticket)
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Retford
Things to do in Retford
Discover the best of Retford — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Retford trip today.
- Recommended
Scrooby Manor House
Family home museum of the Pilgrim Fathers leader William Brewster. A major Mayflower heritage site with period rooms and strong historical significance.
- Recommended
Lincolnshire Aviation Heritage Centre
Museum at an RAF heritage site with aircraft displays and wartime interpretation. Popular with history enthusiasts visiting the wider Retford area.
- Recommended
Market Square
Retford's central square, known for markets and civic life. It is the best place to experience the town's historic core and everyday atmosphere.
- Recommended
Kings' Park
Popular town-centre park with lawns, play areas, and sports facilities. It is a relaxing green space and a favourite with local families.
- Recommended
Chesterfield Canal Towpath
Waterside walking route with boats, locks, and wildlife. Ideal for a gentle stroll and one of Retford's most enjoyable outdoor experiences.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stilton Cheese
A soft cows' milk blue cheese made in nearby Nottinghamshire. Creamy, mellow and historic, it is one of the county's best known traditional foods.
Pork Pie
A classic Nottinghamshire pork pie linked to nearby market towns. It has seasoned pork in hot water crust pastry and is a staple of local fairs and pubs.
Sunday Roast
A hearty roast beef dinner with Yorkshire pudding, roast potatoes and gravy. It is a beloved Sunday pub meal across Retford and the wider region.
The Bay Tree Cafe
Well known local cafe and deli serving breakfast, lunch, coffee and homemade cakes in a casual daytime atmosphere.
Jashan Indian Brasserie
Popular Indian restaurant in Retford with a long standing reputation for curries, tandoori dishes and friendly service.
The White Hart
Established town centre pub and restaurant known for British classics, steaks and ales in a relaxed historic setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England. Hotels, dining, and local buses usually cost less than major UK cities, but more than many small towns abroad.
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 cappuccino or similar coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Retford Railway Station -> Retford Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Stagecoach buses in Retford can be tracked and tickets bought in the official Stagecoach Bus app.
- Contactless card payment is accepted on most Stagecoach buses; ask the driver if you need the cheapest valid ticket.
FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Retford
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Retford 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 Retford, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Retford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $21 (€18), while the average price is around $36 (€30).
The train from Manchester to Retford takes 1h 27m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Manchester to Retford leaves at 12:38 AM.
The distance by train from Manchester to Retford is 54 miles (88 km).
The last train from Manchester to Retford leaves at 11:44 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Manchester to Retford.
There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to Retford.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Retford.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Retford is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), which connects to Retford station (RET).
The train journey from Manchester to Retford offers some scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Peak District and charming English countryside.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Retford.
Popular day trips by train from Retford include London, Lincoln, Worksop, Nottingham, Sheffield.
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 Retford, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, particularly in busy areas such as markets and train stations. It's advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be wary of distraction techniques used by pickpockets. Additionally, travelers should be cautious when using unofficial taxi services to avoid overcharging or scams. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation helps 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 Retford
Most Manchester to Retford trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Retford station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Retford 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 Retford
Which Manchester station do trains to Retford leave from?
Trains from Manchester to Retford 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 · $3 · every ~56 min
TramBlue Line, Red Line, Pink Line, Purple Line, Yellow Line · 3m · $3 · 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 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 · $2 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · $3 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · $3 · 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.
Manchester VictoriaManchester Victoria station, Station Approach, Todd Street, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M3 1WY
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 · $2 · every ~3 min
Bus41, 135 · 5m · $3 · every ~32 min
T1 · 10m
X43 · 29m · every ~1 min
TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 5m · $3 · 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.
Which Retford station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to Retford arrive at Retford. Retford is 0 miles (1 km) from Retford city centre.
RetfordRetford station, Station Road, Retford, Nottinghamshire, DN22 7DE
City-centre transport
Getting to Retford from Retford city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesRail Replacement Coaches leave from the front of the station.
Retford train station facilities and services
Retford has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Retford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Retford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Retford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Retford: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Retford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Advance booking is advisable, 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 Retford
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Retford and Manchester
Most popular train connections to Retford
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