Manchester to St Albans train with Avanti West Coast

Wed, Nov 04
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
East Midlands Railway
Transpennine Express
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
East Midlands Railway
Transpennine Express
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to St Albans

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
Cheapest price on Nov 04
€50
Average ticket price on Nov 04
€95
Fastest journey on Nov 04
3 h 17 m
Average journey duration on Nov 04
4 h
Trains on Nov 04
5
Distance
231 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester to St Albans will cost around €95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €50.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Manchester to St Albans without transferring at least 2 times.

  • Avanti West CoastW34228+West Midlands TrainsW11166 · Y80895
    2 transfers
  • East Midlands RailwayC04363 · C21692 · C04264+ThameslinkW45598
    3 transfers
  • East Midlands RailwayC04365 · W70816+ThameslinkW32956
    2 transfers
  • East Midlands RailwayC04363 · W70812+ThameslinkW45607
    2 transfers
  • Transpennine ExpressW84695+East Midlands RailwayC21666+ThameslinkG28266
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to St Albans

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Manchester to St Albans run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €51 if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 00:15, the last at 22:27. The fastest train covers the 143 miles (231 km) distance in 2h 17m.

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

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance143 miles (231 km)
  • Average train duration2h 53m
  • Cheapest ticket price€51
  • Trains per day6
  • Fastest train2h 17m
  • First train12:15 AM
  • Last train10:27 PM
  • Cheapest MonthJun
  • Cheapest DayFri
  • High SeasonJan - Mar
  • Low SeasonJul - Sep
  • Busiest DaySat
  • Least Busy DayThu
  • Best time to book42 days

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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

Frequently asked questions about your Manchester to St Albans trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Manchester to St Albans.

Train ticket prices from Manchester to St Albans can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €51, while the average price is around €103.
The train from Manchester to St Albans takes 2h 17m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Manchester to St Albans leaves at 12:15 AM.
The distance by train from Manchester to St Albans is 143 miles (231 km).
The last train from Manchester to St Albans leaves at 10:27 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to St Albans.

Live departures

Manchester to St Albans train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to St Albans trains for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
East Midlands RailwayW70826 · C21669 · C04278+Transpennine ExpressW84712
Delayed
6:35 PM 5:13 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
4h14
9:27 PM St Albans City (SAC)
4 transfers
East Midlands RailwayW70826+Transpennine ExpressW84712+ThameslinkW45572
Delayed
6:35 PM 5:13 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
3h58
9:11 PM St Albans City (SAC)
2 transfers
Avanti West CoastW34020+ThameslinkW45496+Northern RailP24201+TubeTube from London Euston to London St Pancras International
Delayed
6:24 PM 5:17 PMDeansgate (DGT)
4h07
9:24 PM St Albans City (SAC)
3 transfers
East Midlands RailwayC21806 · C21674+ThameslinkW45531
On time
5:43 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
4h28
10:11 PM St Albans City (SAC)
2 transfers
East Midlands RailwayW70832+Transpennine ExpressW84719+ThameslinkW32983
Delayed
7:35 PM 6:13 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
4h11
10:24 PM St Albans City (SAC)
2 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Manchester to St Albans trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as East Midlands Railway or Transpennine Express offer trains services from Manchester to St Albans.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to St Albans.

Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?

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

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of East Midlands Railway or Transpennine Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to St Albans.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to St Albans.

Train companies

Train companies from Manchester to St Albans

Trains from Manchester to St Albans with Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, and Transpennine Express. High-speed trains available on this route with Avanti West Coast, East Midlands Railway, and Transpennine Express. Regional trains available on this route with East Midlands Railway. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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 Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 17m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
€51
Avanti West Coast frequency
4 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

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
3h 17m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
€80
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

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
3h 1m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
€88
Transpennine Express frequency
1 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Manchester and St Albans

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Manchester to St Albans.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to St Albans.
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.

Complete guide to St Albans

Things to do in St Albans

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

  • Must visit

Verulamium Museum

Award-winning museum on Roman Verulamium with mosaics, wall plaster, and everyday finds. Essential for understanding ancient St Albans.

  • Recommended

St Albans Museum + Gallery

Museum and gallery in the old town hall with local history, changing art shows, and the rebuilt Assembly Room. A strong introduction to the city.

Alban, Britain’s First Saint Exhibition

Small museum telling the story of Alban, Britain's first saint, inside the cathedral precinct. Compact but meaningful for the city's identity.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for England: hotels often cost more than smaller towns, but dining and local transit are typical for the South East.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£50+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants may add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, round up or tip about 10% for good service. Taxis are often rounded up. Cafe tipping is optional.

Plan your visit to St Albans

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in St Albans.

The train journey from Manchester to St Albans offers a mix of urban and rural views, with scenic countryside landscapes as you travel through the Midlands and glimpses of charming English towns and rolling hills along the way.
Popular day trips by train from St Albans include London, Harpenden, Luton, Radlett, Teddington.
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 St Albans, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and near markets. Common scams include distraction techniques where individuals may attempt to divert attention to steal wallets or phones. Travelers are advised to keep valuables secure and be wary of unsolicited offers or street vendors. Additionally, while St Albans is generally safe, staying alert during nighttime and using trusted transportation options can help avoid potential safety issues.
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.

FAQs: Trains from Manchester to St Albans

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

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to St Albans.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Manchester to St Albans

Most Manchester to St Albans trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to St Albans City station pair, with some services arriving at St Albans Abbey. Use this guide to compare Manchester and St Albans 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 St Albans

Which Manchester station do trains to St Albans leave from?

Trains from Manchester to St Albans 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 3457114141WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester Piccadilly from Manchester city centre

Bus201, 203, 202, 205 · 1m · €2 · every ~56 min
TramBlue Line, Red Line, Pink Line, Purple Line, Yellow Line · 3m · €2 · every ~47 min

Manchester Piccadilly train station facilities and services

Manchester Piccadilly has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Burger King, Caffè Nero, Carluccio’s, Hotel Chocolat, Starbucks, The Pasty Shop, Costa Coffee, Pret a Manger, Upper Crust, McDonald's, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Pay as you go Wi-Fi is available through BT Wi-Fi. ATMs are there are ATM machines on the main concourse, Platform 10 and on the mezzanine level.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 04:30 - 22:30, Sun: 07:00 - 22:30. Information desks are located near the Fairfield Street entrance on the mezzanine level.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is operated by Excess Baggage Co. Llocated between Platforms 10 and 11 and open daily from 08:00 to 21:00.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Manchester Piccadilly: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Piccadilly: There is step-free access throughout the station. Ramps for train access and wheelchairs are also available.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Manchester - Piccadilly, Premier Inn Manchester City, Staycity Aparthotels - Manchester Piccadilly.

Manchester Oxford RoadManchester Oxford Road station, Station Approach, Oxford Road, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M1 6FUParkingDiningAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester Oxford Road from Manchester city centre

Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 5m · €2 · every ~224 min
T1 · 1h 7m

Manchester Oxford Road train station facilities and services

Manchester Oxford Road has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Manchester Oxford Road.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester Oxford Road.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Manchester Oxford Road: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Oxford Road: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B Station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station - There are two lifts at the Piccadilly end of platform 4 and 2/3 which connect the concourse area platform 4 and 5 with 2/3. Note: there is no lift access to platform 1 at all, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Accepts Cash & Cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

DeansgateDeansgate station, Whitworth Street West, Deansgate, Manchester, M3 4LGParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Deansgate from Manchester city centre

Deansgate is 1 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainManchester Airport - Corkickle, Manchester Airport - Blackpool North, Manchester Airport - Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester Airport - Barrow-in-Furness, Manchester Airport - Windermere, Wilmslow - Liverpool Lime Street, Manchester Airport - Preston, Stockport - Blackpool North · 5m · €1 · every ~7 min
Bus33, 255, 30 · 5m · €2 · every ~22 min
T1 · 1h 6m
TramBlue Line, Red Line, Pink Line, Purple Line · 6m · €2 · every ~38 min

Deansgate train station facilities and services

Deansgate has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Deansgate.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Deansgate.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Deansgate: Parking, Taxis.

Bike and car services

Available at Deansgate: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Deansgate: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station From Whitworth Street, up a ramp (43 paces, 1:25 slope) and level access through the entrance into the foyer. Or from the junction of Chester Road, Whitworth Street and Deansgate, level access through the entrance, along the corridor and up 21 steps into the foyer. Then, to Manchester: Past the ticket office, via the lift in the foyer. Or up a ramp (34 paces), up 17 steps onto the platform. To Bolton, Warrington and Wigan : Via the lift in the foyer or along the subway (26 paces), up a ramp (32 paces) and up 18 steps onto the platform. Level access to Manchester platform also via overbridge from Metrolink G-Mex Metrolink stop. Lift available first to last train, currently 06:20 - 23:40 Monday to Saturday. 08:10 - 23:30 Sunday, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Train stations for Manchester to St Albans

Check train stations information for Manchester and St Albans, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Manchester that goes to St Albans is Manchester Piccadilly, which connects to St Albans City.

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