Manchester to Retford train with Transpennine Express

Wed, May 27
+ Add return
Transpennine Express
Northern Rail
East Midlands Railway
east_midlands_trains
Northern Trains Limited
2,000+ travel companies
Transpennine Express
Northern Rail
East Midlands Railway
east_midlands_trains
Northern Trains Limited
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Retford

Showing times and prices for May 27

Cheapest price

$40

Average price

$48

Fastest journey

1 h 34 m

Average duration

1 h 39 m

Trains per day

18

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.

  • Transpennine ExpressW84695+Hull TrainsW04511
    2:13 PM2h03
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    4:16 PMRetford station (RET)
    $401One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transpennine ExpressW84719+Hull TrainsW04518
    6:13 PM2h03
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    8:16 PMRetford station (RET)
    $401One-way
    1 transfer
  • East Midlands RailwayC04350+Northern RailG89407
    9:43 AM1h37
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    11:20 AMRetford station (RET)
    $491One-way
    1 transfer
  • East Midlands RailwayC04347+Northern RailG89404
    8:43 AM1h35
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    10:18 AMRetford station (RET)
    $491One-way
    1 transfer
  • East Midlands RailwayC04363+Northern RailG89418
    1:43 PM1h37
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    3:20 PMRetford station (RET)
    $491One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Manchester to Retford

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Retford among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $26. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $26, and a train costs an average of $26.

Distance: 54 miles (88 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

$44

Average price

Cheapest

$24

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

2h 16m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 46m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

1h 57m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Transpennine Express

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Retford is a train with an average price of $44 (€36).
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Retford is by train with an average journey time of 1h 46m.

Other travel options to Retford take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 24m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Retford including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Retford among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 11m sooner (1h 46m by train vs 1h 57m by car). Tickets start at around $44 (€36) compared to roughly $24 (€19) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Manchester to Retford train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Retford trains for today, Tuesday, May 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
East Midlands RailwayC04347+Northern RailG89404
On time
8:43 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1h35
10:18 AM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW84665+London North Eastern RailwayL01628
On time
9:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1h52
11:05 AM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
East Midlands RailwayC04350+Northern RailG89407
On time
9:43 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1h37
11:20 AM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW84670+Northern RailG89409
On time
10:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h04
12:17 PM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW84677+London North Eastern RailwayL01631
On time
11:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1h53
1:06 PM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW84800+Hull TrainsW04508
On time
11:30 AM Manchester Victoria (MCV)
2h10
1:40 PM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW84683+Northern RailG89414
On time
12:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h03
2:16 PM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW84689+London North Eastern RailwayC01918
On time
1:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1h53
3:06 PM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
East Midlands RailwayC04363+Northern RailG89418
On time
1:43 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1h37
3:20 PM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW84695+Hull TrainsW04511
On time
2:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h03
4:16 PM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
East Midlands RailwayC04365+Northern RailG89421
On time
2:43 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1h34
4:17 PM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW84700+London North Eastern RailwayL01636
On time
3:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1h53
5:06 PM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW84705+Northern RailG89428
On time
4:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h06
6:19 PM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW84712+London North Eastern RailwayL01640
On time
5:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1h53
7:06 PM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW84719+Hull TrainsW04518
On time
6:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h03
8:16 PM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer
Transpennine ExpressW84719+Northern RailG89436
On time
6:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2h03
8:16 PM Retford station (RET)
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Retford 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.

Wed
May 27
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May 28
Fri
May 29
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May 30
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May 31
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Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02

Why should you book Manchester to Retford trains with Omio?

Transpennine Express as well as Northern Rail, East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains, Northern Trains Limited and more 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 Northern Rail, East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains or Northern Trains Limited 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, Trip or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail, East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains or Northern Trains Limited 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Retford

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Manchester to Retford run on average 6 times per day, taking around 1h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 (€21) 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 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
54 miles (88 km)
Average train duration
1h 46m
Cheapest ticket price
$26 (€21)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
1h 37m
First train
12:38 AM
Last train
11:44 PM
Cheapest Month
May
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
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

Train companies: Transpennine Express, Northern Rail, East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express from Manchester to Retford trainsTranspennine Express, Northern Rail, East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Manchester and Retford from $26 (€21). 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
1h 53m
Cheapest Price
$49 (€39)
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

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
2h 15m
Cheapest Price
$64 (€52)
Northern Rail frequency
1 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

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 Duration
1h 37m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
East Midlands Railway frequency
2 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

east_midlands_trains

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 32m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€27)
east_midlands_trains frequency
10 a day

Northern Trains Limited

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 5m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
Northern Trains Limited frequency
2 a day

TransPennine Express

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 42m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€39)
TransPennine Express frequency
8 a day

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Retford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $26 (€21), while the average price is around $44 (€36).
The train from Manchester to Retford takes 1h 37m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Manchester to Retford is 54 miles (88 km).
The first train from Manchester to Retford leaves at 12:38 AM.
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 cheapest way to get from Manchester to Retford is by train, with a cost of around $26 (€21).
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.
A day trip from Manchester to Retford is not feasible as the journey takes 1h 37m. However, trains run 5 times per day for this route.
A visit to Retford can be comfortably enjoyed over a day or two, allowing time to explore its charming market town atmosphere, local shops, historic sites, and nearby countryside.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Retford.
Since neither Manchester nor Retford 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 Retford include London, Lincoln, Worksop, Nottingham, Sheffield.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Retford 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 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

Manchester
Retford
The major train station for departures in Manchester is Manchester Piccadilly. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester Piccadilly for your trip from Manchester to Retford.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
  • Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi.
Lockers
Lockers
  • Operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.
Dining
Dining
  • Burger King
  • Caffè Nero
  • Carluccio’s
  • Hotel Chocolat
  • Starbucks
  • The Pasty Shop
  • Costa Coffee
  • Pret a Manger
  • Upper Crust
  • McDonald's
  • & more
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.
Hotel
Hotel
  • DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly
  • Premier Inn Manchester City
  • Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30
  • Sun: 07:00 - 22:30
Information Desk
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
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Sunday 06:30 - 22:30
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
13 km
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: Passport Photo Booth
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
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
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
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: No cycle storage
  • Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
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
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:30 - 22:00 Sunday 08:00 - 22:15
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
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
WC
  • Toilets Location: A key is available in the Duty's Manager's office.
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
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.​​​​​​​

More options for your journey from Manchester to Retford

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Most popular train connections to Retford

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