Manchester to Southampton train with CrossCountry

Sun, Jun 07
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Cross Country
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Southampton

Showing times and prices for Jun 07

Cheapest price

$46

Average price

$149

Fastest journey

4 h 15 m

Average duration

4 h 16 m

Trains per day

24

Distance

292 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Southampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Manchester to Southampton will cost around $149 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.

Fast trains

Of the 24 trains that leave Manchester for Southampton on Sun, Jun 07, 11 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 07 the direct trains cover the 292 km distance in an average of 4 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 15 m .

On Sun, Jun 07 the slowest trains will take 4 h 17 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.

  • CrossCountryG01036
    5:25 PM4h17
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    9:42 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $461One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01034
    4:25 PM4h20
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    8:45 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $461One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01007
    8:26 AM4h18
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    12:44 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $461One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01011
    9:27 AM4h15
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    1:42 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $461One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01040
    6:25 PM4h17
    Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    10:42 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $461One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Manchester to Southampton

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 11m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $23, and a flight costs an average of $85.

Distance: 181 miles (292 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$109

Average price

$37

Average price

Cheapest

$169

Average price

$95

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 39m

Average total duration

4h 9m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 11m

Average total duration

6h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 11m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 11m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

4h 26m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.3 - 0.7kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

British Airways

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

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 Southampton is a bus with an average price of $37 (€30).

This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Southampton:

A bus is $72 (€59) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Southampton costing on average $109 (€89).

A bus is $133 (€108) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Southampton costing on average $169 (€138).

The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Southampton is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 11m.

Other travel options to Southampton take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 9m.

Bus takes on average 6h 41m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester and Southampton including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Southampton 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 17m sooner (4h 9m by train vs 4h 26m by car). Tickets start at around $109 (€89) compared to roughly $95 (€77) 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.

Direct services run with CrossCountry, Cross Country.

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 Southampton train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Southampton trains for today, Saturday, June 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG00998
On time
5:11 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
4h32
9:43 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
0 transfersDirect
Avanti West CoastW33780+South Western RailwayL80235+TubeTube from London Euston to London Waterloo
On time
5:54 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
5h27
11:21 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33780+Great Western RailwayW34676 · C48472+CrossCountryG00999
On time
5:54 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
4h49
10:43 AM Southampton Central (SOU)
4 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33397+South Western RailwayL80255+TubeTube from London Euston to London Waterloo
On time
8:14 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
5h07
1:21 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33397+TubeTube from London Euston to London Paddington+Great Western RailwayW34621+CrossCountryG01006
On time
8:14 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
4h29
12:43 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
3 transfers
CrossCountryG01006
On time
8:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
4h18
12:43 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
0 transfersDirect
Avanti West CoastW33648+Great Western RailwayC42189 · C48484+South Western RailwayL80255
On time
8:34 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
4h47
1:21 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
4 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33648+South Western RailwayL80121+TubeTube from London Euston to London Waterloo
On time
8:34 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
5h18
1:52 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW33594+South Western RailwayL80263+TubeTube from London Euston to London Waterloo
On time
9:14 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
5h07
2:21 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Southampton by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

Sat
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07
Mon
Jun 08
Tue
Jun 09
Wed
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12

Why should you book Manchester to Southampton trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or Cross Country offer trains services from Manchester to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Southampton.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Southampton.
  • 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester to Southampton.

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 or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Southampton.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Southampton.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Manchester to Southampton?

The best time to book your train from Manchester to Southampton is 56 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Manchester to Southampton route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Manchester to Southampton per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Manchester to Southampton.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Southampton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Manchester to Southampton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 9m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€31) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:04, the last at 22:15. The fastest train covers the 181 miles (292 km) distance in 4h 15m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $23 (€19)
Distance
181 miles (292 km)
Average train duration
4h 9m
Cheapest ticket price
$38 (€31)
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
4h 15m
First train
12:04 AM
Last train
10:15 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Tue
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $23 (€19)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country from Manchester to Southampton trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Cross Country trains will get you between Manchester and Southampton from $23 (€19). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 17m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
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 15m
Cheapest Price
$80 (€65)
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 17m
Cheapest Price
$319 (€260)
Cross Country frequency
11 a day

Complete guide to Southampton

Things to do in Southampton

Discover the best of Southampton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southampton trip today.

  • Must visit

SeaCity Museum

Modern city museum focused on Southampton’s maritime history, including the Titanic story and the city’s role as a major port.

  • Must visit

Tudor House and Garden

Historic house museum revealing over 800 years of local history, with restored rooms, exhibitions, and a peaceful garden.

  • Recommended

Solent Sky Museum

Aviation museum with historic aircraft, including the famous Supermarine Spitfire, which was developed in Southampton.

Pound Sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Pubs and casual dining are fairly priced, while central hotels and fine dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-12 for takeaway or fast food.
Mid-range
GBP 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not already included. Round up for taxis. Tipping is optional in cafes and pubs.

FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Southampton

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Southampton 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 Southampton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Southampton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€31), while the average price is around $109 (€89).
The train from Manchester to Southampton takes 4h 15m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Manchester to Southampton is 181 miles (292 km).
The first train from Manchester to Southampton leaves at 12:04 AM.
The last train from Manchester to Southampton leaves at 10:15 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Southampton.
Yes, there is a direct train from Manchester to Southampton. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Southampton.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Southampton is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), which connects to Southampton Central (SOU).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Southampton is by bus, with a cost of around $23 (€19).
The train journey from Manchester to Southampton offers a mix of urban and rural views, with highlights including the rolling hills of the English countryside, charming villages, and glimpses of historical landmarks.
A day trip from Manchester to Southampton is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 15m. However, trains run 6 times per day.
In Southampton, you can explore the New Forest National Park for hiking and wildlife spotting, take the Hythe Ferry for a scenic trip, or shop at Westquay Shopping Centre. Enjoy the vibrant Ocean Village Marina with its dining and leisure options, or relax in Southampton Common. For cultural experiences, visit the Tudor House and Garden, SeaCity Museum, Southampton City Art Gallery, Solent Sky Museum, and catch a performance at the Mayflower Theatre.
To fully explore Southampton, including its maritime attractions, cultural sites, and local experiences, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Southampton.
Since neither Manchester nor Southampton 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 Southampton include London, Bournemouth, Winchester, Portsmouth, Salisbury.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to Southampton 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 Southampton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and near the port. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour operators offering poor services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official ticket vendors for transportation. Staying vigilant in crowded places and securing personal belongings can help 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 Southampton

Manchester
Southampton
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 Southampton.
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 - 22:40 Sunday 07:30 - 22:00
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
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
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
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)

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