- Must visit
Verulamium Museum
Award-winning museum on Roman Verulamium with mosaics, wall plaster, and everyday finds. Essential for understanding ancient St Albans.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to St Albans
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
€50
Average ticket price on Sep 20
€50
Fastest journey on Sep 20
3 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
3 h 20 m
Trains on Sep 20
1
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 €50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €50.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 1 trains from Manchester to St Albans, including 1 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 231 km distance in an average of 3 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 20 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 3 h 20 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.
3:15 PM3h20Manchester6:35 PMSt Albans€501One-way0 transfers
- 3:15 PM3h20Manchester6:35 PMSt Albans€501One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Manchester to St Albans
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to St Albans among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of €88 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 14m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €88, while a flight costs an average of €419.
Distance: 143 miles (231 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|
€88 Average price Cheapest | €419 Average price |
3h 14m Average total duration Fastest 2h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 58m Average total duration 1h 58m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
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 St Albans is a train with an average price of €88.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to St Albans:
A train is €331 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to St Albans costing on average €419.
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to St Albans is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 58m.
Other travel options to St Albans take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and St Albans including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to St Albans among Omio's users.
Live departures
Manchester to St Albans train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to St Albans trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 8:43 AM Manchester | 4h14 | 12:57 PM St Albans | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:35 AM Manchester | 3h27 | 1:02 PM St Albans | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to St Albans by train or flight
Compare train 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.
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Manchester to St Albans trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as East Midlands Railway 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 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 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to St Albans
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to St Albans run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 44m. 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
Distance 143 miles (231 km) |
Average train duration 2h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price €51 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 2h 17m |
First train 12:15 AM |
Last train 10:27 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 42 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: Avanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, East Midlands Railway from Manchester to St Albans trainsAvanti West Coast, Transpennine Express, East Midlands Railway trains will get you between Manchester and St Albans from €51. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
2 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
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
€87
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
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
€106
East Midlands Railway frequency
1 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 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.
- 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.
- Must visit
Verulamium Park
Large central park covering the Roman city site, with lakes, green space, and ruins. Ideal for walks, picnics, and combining history with nature.
- Recommended
St Peter's Street
Historic market street lined with timber-framed buildings, shops, and regular markets. One of the best places to feel the city's character.
- Recommended
George Street
Picturesque old street beside the cathedral with medieval atmosphere and independent businesses. A favourite area for photos and short strolls.
Hertfordshire Beef Sausage
A mustard-laced sausage linked to nearby Hertfordshire. It is a regional pub classic, often served with mash and gravy.
- Vegetarian
Local Cask Ale
Traditional English ale brewed with heritage methods. St Albans is known for strong pub culture and local cask beer appreciation.
Sunday Roast
A classic Sunday roast of beef, potatoes, vegetables, Yorkshire pudding and gravy, widely enjoyed in historic St Albans pubs.
Lussmanns St Albans
Elegant Michelin-starred dining with refined British tasting menus in a polished, intimate setting near the city centre.
Lussmanns St Albans
Well-regarded sustainable restaurant serving modern British dishes and seafood in a relaxed brasserie atmosphere.
Ye Olde Fighting Cocks
Historic pub near the cathedral known for cask ales, hearty British classics and a characterful traditional interior.
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.
Intalink Journey Planner
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- :null
To the city center
St Albans City -> St Peter's Street, St Albans
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Most local buses accept contactless card payment; rail tickets from St Albans City also support contactless on Thameslink services to London.
- The £2.00 single fare cap applies on many local bus routes, but check the operator and route before boarding.
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.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to St Albans can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €51, while the average price is around €88.
The train from Manchester to St Albans takes 2h 17m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Manchester to St Albans is 143 miles (231 km).
The first train from Manchester to St Albans leaves at 12:15 AM.
The last train from Manchester to St Albans leaves at 10:27 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Manchester to St Albans.
There is no direct train service currently available from Manchester to St Albans.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to St Albans.
The train station in Manchester that goes to St Albans is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), which connects to St Albans City (SAC).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to St Albans is by train, with a cost of around €51.
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.
A day trip from Manchester to St Albans is not feasible, as the duration is 2h 17m. However, there are 6 train trips available per day for this journey.
A visit to St Albans can be comfortably experienced in 1 to 2 days, allowing time to explore its historic cathedral, Roman ruins, and charming markets.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to St Albans.
Since neither Manchester nor St Albans 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 St Albans include London, Harpenden, Luton, Radlett, Teddington.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester to St Albans 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 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.
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 3457114141
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 6FU
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.
Which St Albans station do trains from Manchester arrive at?
Trains from Manchester to St Albans most often arrive at St Albans City. Some services arrive at St Albans Abbey, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your St Albans arrival station.
St Albans CitySt Albans station, Station Way, St. Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 5HE+44 345 026 4700
St Albans City train station facilities and services
St Albans City has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at St Albans City.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at St Albans City. ATMs are available at St Albans City.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at St Albans City.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at St Albans City: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at St Albans City: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at St Albans City: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station: This station has step-free level access to the platform. Assistance Meeting Point is the Ticket Office, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All Thameslink ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. Ticket machines are of an accessible design, however their location and the station itself may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Wheelchairs may only be available when the station is staffed, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
St Albans AbbeySt Albans Abbey station, Holywell Hill, St Albans, Hertfordshire, AL1 2DN+44 3301235247
City-centre transport
Getting to St Albans Abbey from St Albans city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesTowards Watford - Public Service bus stop A/Rail Replacement bus stop on A5183 on Holywell Hill near to the station entrance car park. Towards St Albans - Public Service bus stop B/Rail Replacement bus stop on A5183 on Holywell Hill.
St Albans Abbey train station facilities and services
St Albans Abbey has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at St Albans Abbey.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at St Albans Abbey: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at St Albans Abbey: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at St Albans Abbey: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: A Ticket Vending Machine is located on Platform One, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to St Albans
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from St Albans and Manchester
Most popular train connections to St Albans
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
