Manchester to Stafford train with CrossCountry

Mon, Sep 28
+ Add return
Northern Rail
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Transport for Wales
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Northern Rail
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Transport for Wales
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Stafford

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 28

Cheapest price on Sep 28

$16

Average ticket price on Sep 28

$25

Fastest journey on Sep 28

56 m

Average journey duration on Sep 28

1 h 17 m

Trains on Sep 28

6

Distance

76 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester to Stafford will cost around $25 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $16.

Fast trains

On Mon, Sep 28, we found 6 trains from Manchester to Stafford, including 6 direct services.

On Mon, Sep 28 the direct trains cover the 76 km distance in an average of 1 h 17 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 56 m .

On Mon, Sep 28 the slowest trains will take 1 h 33 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.

  • Northern Rail
    7:38 AM1h31
    Manchester
    9:09 AMStafford
    $161One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    6:03 PM0h56
    Manchester
    6:59 PMStafford
    $191One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern Rail
    5:42 AM1h27
    Manchester
    7:09 AMStafford
    $191One-way
    0 transfers
  • Northern Rail
    8:36 AM1h33
    Manchester
    10:09 AMStafford
    $231One-way
    0 transfers
  • CrossCountry
    9:03 AM0h56
    Manchester
    9:59 AMStafford
    $241One-way
    0 transfers

Live departures

Manchester to Stafford train times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Stafford trains for today, Sunday, September 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Avanti West CoastW33102
On time
8:05 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0h56
9:01 AM Stafford station (STA)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG01007
On time
8:26 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0h59
9:25 AM Stafford station (STA)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG01011
On time
9:27 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0h58
10:25 AM Stafford station (STA)
0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38896+Avanti West CoastW33326
On time
9:30 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1h10
10:40 AM Stafford station (STA)
1 transfer
Northern RailC32684+West Midlands TrainsC17879
On time
9:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1h32
11:31 AM Stafford station (STA)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG66601
On time
10:04 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0h57
11:01 PM Stafford station (STA)
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 Stafford by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

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Why should you book Manchester to Stafford trains with Omio?

Northern Rail as well as CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Manchester to Stafford.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Stafford.

Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?

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

Why book with Omio over Trip, Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Stafford.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Stafford.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Manchester to Stafford

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Manchester to Stafford run on average 14 times per day, taking around 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $11 if you book in advance.

There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:02, the last at 23:43. The fastest train covers the 47 miles (76 km) distance in 47m.

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
47 miles (76 km)
Average train duration
59m
Cheapest ticket price
$11
Trains per day
14
Direct trains
8
Fastest train
47m
First train
12:02 AM
Last train
11:43 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
1 day
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: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Northern Rail from Manchester to Stafford trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Northern Rail trains will get you between Manchester and Stafford from $11. 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 CrossCountry Duration
47m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$14
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
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 Avanti West Coast Duration
53m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$43
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

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Transport for Wales Duration
56m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$39
Transport for Wales frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
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 Northern Rail Duration
1h 5m
Cheapest Northern Rail Price
$11
Northern Rail frequency
2 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

Complete guide to Stafford

Things to do in Stafford

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

  • Recommended

Stafford Castle Visitor Centre

Main local museum inside Stafford Castle Visitor Centre, covering the castle, archaeology, and town history. A strong first stop for context.

  • Recommended

The Potteries Museum & Art Gallery

Major county museum with art, social history, and changing exhibitions. One of the area’s best museum visits and easy to reach from Stafford.

  • Recommended

World of Wedgwood Museum

National museum in nearby Stoke-on-Trent exploring ceramics, design, and factory heritage. Excellent for understanding Staffordshire’s global pottery story.

British pound sterling (£)

Stafford is moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while rail fares and central stays can still raise trip costs.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
£15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£45+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up taxi fares. Cafes usually do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Stafford

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Stafford can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $11, while the average price is around $36.
The train from Manchester to Stafford takes 47m and runs 14 per day.
The distance by train from Manchester to Stafford is 47 miles (76 km).
The first train from Manchester to Stafford leaves at 12:02 AM.
The last train from Manchester to Stafford leaves at 11:43 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Stafford.
Yes, there is a direct train from Manchester to Stafford. This service operates 8 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Stafford.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Stafford is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), which connects to Stafford station (STA).
The train journey from Manchester to Stafford offers views of the picturesque English countryside, including charming villages, rolling hills, and lush green fields, making it a visually pleasant trip.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Stafford.
Popular day trips by train from Stafford include Wolverhampton, London, Stoke-on-Trent, Penkridge, Birmingham.
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 Stafford, travelers should be cautious of petty theft and pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas. It is advisable to avoid unlicensed taxis and only use reputable transportation services to prevent scams. Staying alert in less populated areas at night and safeguarding personal belongings enhances safety during visits.
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 Stafford

Most Manchester to Stafford trains use the Manchester Piccadilly to Stafford station pair. Use this guide to compare Manchester and Stafford 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 Stafford

Which Manchester station do trains to Stafford leave from?

Trains from Manchester to Stafford 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 AirportManchester Airport station, Malaga Avenue, Manchester, Greater Manchester, M90 3RRWifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester Airport from Manchester city centre

Manchester Airport is 13 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLiverpool Lime Street - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Crewe, Blackpool North - Manchester Airport, Barrow-in-Furness - Manchester Airport, Windermere - Manchester Airport, Manchester Piccadilly - Wilmslow, Manchester Piccadilly - Manchester Airport, Millom - Manchester Airport, Lancaster - Manchester Airport, Manchester Oxford Road - Manchester Airport, Corkickle - Manchester Airport, Preston - Manchester Airport · 17m · $6 · every ~9 min
BusUk980, Uk076, Uk074, Uk072, Ukn23 · 30m · $1 · every ~2 min
43, 103 · 1h 2m · $2 · every ~29 min
43, 103 · 1h 6m · $2 · every ~29 min
TramNavy Line · 51m · $5 · every ~16 min
Navy Line · 54m · $5 · every ~8 min

Manchester Airport train station facilities and services

Manchester Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Manchester Airport.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Manchester Airport. ATMs are available at Manchester Airport.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester Airport. Information desks are information available from staff: ,Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 107 2149, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester Airport: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Manchester Airport: Bike Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester Airport: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: re Step free access is provided from the Ground Transport Interchange to all platforms via lifts or ramps. This station is staffed for all services. This station is Category A. Station staff can provide assistance from Meeting Point 1 (adjacent to the Station Booking Office) and throughout the railway station, and with boarding and alighting the train. Customers requiring assistance should make themselves known to station staff no less than 20 minutes prior to the departure time of their train. Customers requiring assistance to access other services or to connect with terminals should request this from their airline or Manchester Airport Group. Assistance can be requested in advance by contacting the TransPennine Express Assisted Travel Team on 0800 107 2149 (18001 prefix for TextRelay). Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible public telephones: In the station cafe on platforms 2 and 3, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

ManchesterManchester Piccadilly, Piccadilly Station Approach, Greater, Manchester M60 7RA, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester from Manchester city centre

TRUE

Manchester train station facilities and services

Manchester has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Multiple food outlets and cafes available.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free public Wi-Fi available in the station. ATMs are several ATMs located near the entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester: Step-free access throughout the station.

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