- Must visit
The Harris
Preston's leading museum and gallery, known for fine art, history, and architecture. A cornerstone cultural attraction in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Milton Keynes to Preston
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€47
Average price
€73
Fastest journey
2 h 31 m
Average duration
2 h 33 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
233 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Milton Keynes to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Milton Keynes to Preston will cost around €73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €47.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Milton Keynes for Preston on Wed, Aug 05, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 233 km distance in an average of 2 h 33 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 31 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 2 h 34 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.
9:24 AM2h34Milton Keynes11:58 AMPreston€471One-way0 transfers- 10:24 AM2h34Milton Keynes12:58 PMPreston€871One-way0 transfers
9:19 AM2h31Milton Keynes11:50 AMPreston€871One-way0 transfers
- 9:19 AM2h31Milton Keynes11:50 AMPreston€871One-way0 transfers
- 10:24 AM2h34Milton Keynes12:58 PMPreston€871One-way0 transfers
- 9:24 AM2h34Milton Keynes11:58 AMPreston€471One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Milton Keynes to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Milton Keynes to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €30. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 23m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €30, and a train costs an average of €37.
Distance: 144 miles (233 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€71 Average price | €42 Average price Cheapest | €65 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 53m Average total duration Fastest 2h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 56m Average total duration 9h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Milton Keynes to Preston is a bus with an average price of €42.
This is compared to other travel options from Milton Keynes to Preston:
A bus is €29 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Milton Keynes to Preston costing on average €71.
The fastest way to travel from Milton Keynes to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 2h 23m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 26m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Milton Keynes and Preston including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Milton Keynes to Preston 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 42m sooner (2h 23m by train vs 3h 5m by car). Tickets start at around €71 compared to roughly €65 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 Avanti West Coast.
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
Milton Keynes to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Milton Keynes to Preston trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:19 AM Milton Keynes | 2h31 | 9:50 AM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:19 AM Milton Keynes | 2h31 | 12:50 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Milton Keynes to Preston by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Aug 06
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Aug 07
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Aug 08
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Aug 11
Aug 11
Why should you book Milton Keynes to Preston trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as West Midlands Trains or West Midlands Trains offer trains services from Milton Keynes to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Milton Keynes to Preston.
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 West Midlands Trains or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Milton Keynes to Preston.
- 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 bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Milton Keynes to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of West Midlands Trains or West Midlands Trains to find the best option for your trip from Milton Keynes to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Milton Keynes to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Milton Keynes to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Milton Keynes to Preston run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €37 but you can travel from only €30 by bus.
There are 1 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:32, the last at 22:10. The fastest train covers the 144 miles (233 km) distance in 1h 52m.
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 €30
Distance 144 miles (233 km) |
Average train duration 2h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price €37 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 1 |
Fastest train 1h 52m |
First train 5:32 AM |
Last train 10:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 35 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 €30
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains from Milton Keynes to Preston trainsAvanti West Coast, West Midlands Trains trains will get you between Milton Keynes and Preston from €30. 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 Duration
1h 52m
Cheapest Price
€37
Avanti West Coast frequency
11 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
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest Price
€41
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Preston
Things to do in Preston
Discover the best of Preston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Preston trip today.
- Recommended
Museum of Lancashire
Museum of Lancashire history with social, military, and industrial displays. A strong introduction to the county's people and stories.
- Recommended
Harris Museum, Art Gallery and Library
Modern university gallery presenting changing contemporary art exhibitions. Worth visiting for fresh work by regional and national artists.
- Recommended
Flag Market
Main civic square framed by major buildings and regular events. A central meeting point and one of Preston's most recognisable public spaces.
- Recommended
Lancaster Canal Towpath
Canal-side walking and cycling route with locks, boats, and long views. Ideal for a relaxed local ramble away from the busiest streets.
- Recommended
Brockholes Nature Reserve
Extensive riverside and wetland area popular for walking, birdlife, and broad open views. A lesser-known escape close to the city.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
Lancashire hotpot is a slow-cooked lamb and onion stew topped with sliced potatoes, long linked with Lancashire home cooking and nearby mill towns.
- Vegetarian
Butter Pie
Butter pie is Preston's best-known savoury pie, filled with potato, onion and butter. It became a Friday staple for local Catholics avoiding meat.
- Vegetarian
Parkin
Parkin is a dark oat, treacle and ginger cake popular across Lancashire, especially in colder months and around Bonfire Night.
Northcote
Elegant fine dining by chef Lisa Goodwin-Allen, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service in a country house setting.
Angelo's
Long-established city centre restaurant serving classic Italian dishes in a smart yet relaxed setting. Popular for pasta, seafood and pre-theatre meals.
The Old Black Bull
Traditional Lancashire pub atmosphere with cask ales and hearty British plates. A good place to try regional comfort food in central Preston.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 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 for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Preston Railway Station -> Preston Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Preston; ask the driver for the cheapest suitable ticket.
- Most local travel is by bus from Preston Bus Station; check live departures in the Stagecoach Bus app before you travel.
FAQs: Trains from Milton Keynes to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Milton Keynes to Preston 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 Preston, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Milton Keynes to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €37, while the average price is around €71.
The train from Milton Keynes to Preston takes 1h 52m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Milton Keynes to Preston is 144 miles (233 km).
The first train from Milton Keynes to Preston leaves at 5:32 AM.
The last train from Milton Keynes to Preston leaves at 10:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Milton Keynes to Preston.
Yes, there is a direct train from Milton Keynes to Preston. This service operates 1 times per day, provided by Avanti West Coast.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Milton Keynes to Preston.
The train station in Milton Keynes that goes to Preston is Milton Keynes Central (MKC), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Milton Keynes to Preston is by bus, with a cost of around €30.
The train journey from Milton Keynes to Preston offers varied scenery, including views of the English countryside with rolling hills and farmland, especially as the route traverses through areas like the Peak District.
A day trip from Milton Keynes to Preston is not feasible as the travel duration is 1h 52m. However, there are 7 trains per day covering the distance of 144 miles (233 km).
To fully experience Preston's main attractions and local culture, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Milton Keynes to Preston.
Since neither Milton Keynes nor Preston 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 Preston include London, Bolton, Blackburn, Manchester, Lancaster.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Milton Keynes to Preston 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 Preston, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and transport hubs. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and bogus charity collectors. Staying aware of surroundings and using licensed transportation can help ensure safety.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Milton Keynes to Preston
Most Milton Keynes to Preston trains use the Milton Keynes Central to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Milton Keynes and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Milton Keynes
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Milton Keynes station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Milton Keynes to Preston leave from Milton Keynes Central. The station is 1 miles (2 km) from Milton Keynes city centre at Milton Keynes Central station, 302 Eldergate, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK9 1LA.
Milton Keynes CentralMilton Keynes Central station, 302 Eldergate, Milton Keynes, Buckinghamshire, MK9 1LA+44 3301235247
City-centre transport
Getting to Milton Keynes Central from Milton Keynes city centre
Milton Keynes Central is 1 km from Milton Keynes city centre. Public transport options include:
BusMk1, X5 · 7m · €2 · every ~11 min
Milton Keynes Central train station facilities and services
Milton Keynes Central has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Milton Keynes Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Milton Keynes Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Milton Keynes Central. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0800 0248 997, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Milton Keynes Central: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Milton Keynes Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Milton Keynes Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are accessible - situated on the concourse and at the front of the station outside the main entrance, Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available, 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.
Which Preston station do trains from Milton Keynes arrive at?
Trains from Milton Keynes to Preston arrive at Preston. Preston is 0 miles (1 km) from Preston city centre.
PrestonFishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Preston from Preston city centre
Preston is 1 km from Preston city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3, 2, 2A, 111, 111C · 13m · €9 · every ~36 min
Preston train station facilities and services
Preston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: Rise, The Olive Tree Brasserie, Turtle Bay
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Preston. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Preston. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Preston: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Preston: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Preston: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Holiday Inn Express Preston - South, Delta Hotels Preston, Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel.
Most popular train connections from Milton Keynes
More options for your journey from Milton Keynes to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Milton Keynes
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