- 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 Norwich to Preston
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
$181
Average price
$246
Fastest journey
5 h 7 m
Average duration
5 h 9 m
Trains per day
16
Distance
296 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Norwich to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Norwich to Preston will cost around $246 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $181.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Norwich to Preston without transferring at least 3 times.
9:52 AM5h46Norwich3:38 PMPreston$1811One-way3 transfers- 5:50 PM5h14Norwich11:04 PMPreston$2171One-way3 transfers
- 1:52 PM5h40Norwich7:32 PMPreston$2341One-way4 transfers
- 6:51 AM5h07Norwich11:58 AMPreston$2411One-way3 transfers
- 8:52 AM5h07Norwich1:59 PMPreston$2411One-way3 transfers
- 6:51 AM5h07Norwich11:58 AMPreston$2411One-way3 transfers
- 8:52 AM5h07Norwich1:59 PMPreston$2411One-way3 transfers
- 12:52 PM5h07Norwich5:59 PMPreston$2411One-way3 transfers
- 10:52 AM5h10Norwich4:02 PMPreston$2411One-way3 transfers
- 2:52 PM5h13Norwich8:05 PMPreston$2411One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Norwich to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Norwich to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $48. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $48, and a flight costs an average of $776.
Distance: 183 miles (296 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$127 Average price | $70 Average price Cheapest | $776 Average price | $80 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 55m Average total duration 5h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 20m Average total duration 10h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 20m Average total duration Fastest 4h 20m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Norwich to Preston is a bus with an average price of $70.
This is compared to other travel options from Norwich to Preston:
A bus is $57 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Norwich to Preston costing on average $127.
A bus is $706 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Norwich to Preston costing on average $776.
The fastest way to travel from Norwich to Preston is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 20m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 25m.
Bus takes on average 10h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Norwich and Preston including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Norwich to Preston among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $127 compared to roughly $80 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-46.93. The journey takes 5h 25m versus 5h 3m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Norwich to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Norwich 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:52 PM Norwich | 5h40 | 7:32 PM Preston | 4 transfers | |
| 1:52 PM Norwich | 5h46 | 7:38 PM Preston | 3 transfers | |
| 2:52 PM Norwich | 5h13 | 8:05 PM Preston | 3 transfers | |
| 3:48 PM Norwich | 5h50 | 9:38 PM Preston | 3 transfers | |
| 4:52 PM Norwich | 5h46 | 10:38 PM Preston | 3 transfers | |
| 5:50 PM Norwich | 5h14 | 11:04 PM Preston | 3 transfers | |
| 8:08 PM Norwich | 9h26 | 5:34 AM Preston | 4 transfers | |
| 8:08 PM Norwich | 11h36 | 7:44 AM Preston | 3 transfers | |
 | 10:40 PM Norwich | 11h51 | 10:31 AM Preston | 5 transfers | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
| 5:48 AM Norwich | 5h50 | 11:38 AM Preston | 3 transfers | |
| 6:51 AM Norwich | 5h07 | 11:58 AM Preston | 3 transfers | |
| 7:55 AM Norwich | 5h43 | 1:38 PM Preston | 3 transfers | |
| 8:52 AM Norwich | 5h07 | 1:59 PM Preston | 3 transfers | |
| 9:52 AM Norwich | 5h46 | 3:38 PM Preston | 3 transfers | |
| 10:52 AM Norwich | 5h10 | 4:02 PM Preston | 3 transfers | |
| 11:52 AM Norwich | 5h46 | 5:38 PM Preston | 3 transfers | |
| 12:52 PM Norwich | 5h07 | 5:59 PM Preston | 3 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Norwich to Preston by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, 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.
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Aug 05
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Aug 11
Why should you book Norwich to Preston trains with Omio?
East Midlands Railway as well as east_midlands_trains or Greater Anglia offer trains services from Norwich to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Norwich to Preston.
Why book with Omio vs East Midlands Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for East Midlands Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of east_midlands_trains or Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Norwich 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 East Midlands Railway with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Norwich to Preston.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of east_midlands_trains or Greater Anglia to find the best option for your trip from Norwich to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Norwich to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Norwich to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Norwich to Preston run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $114 but you can travel from only $48 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:33, the last at 20:08. The fastest train covers the 183 miles (296 km) distance in 4h 39m.
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 $48
Distance 183 miles (296 km) |
Average train duration 5h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $114 |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 4h 39m |
First train 5:33 AM |
Last train 8:08 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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 $48
Train companies: East Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains, Greater Anglia from Norwich to Preston trainsEast Midlands Railway, east_midlands_trains, Greater Anglia trains will get you between Norwich and Preston from $48. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Duration
5h 37m
Cheapest Price
$199
East Midlands Railway frequency
3 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
Greater Anglia
About
Greater Anglia is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to intercity services. The commuter trains run at regular intervals throughout the day, while the intercity services run at peak times. The train types include the InterCity 125, InterCity 225, Class 90, Class 91, Class 360 and Class 379. The ticket types available are Standard, First Class and Advance. Onboard facilities include Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and refreshment trolleys. The most popular routes for Greater Anglia are London Liverpool Street to Norwich, London Liverpool Street to Cambridge and London Liverpool Street to Ipswich.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 51m
Cheapest Price
$264
Greater Anglia frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
Two items of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar service on intercity routes with hot and cold drinks, snacks. No service on local routes.
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for a fee. Free for First Class 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 require a ticket (£6 flat fee). Guide dogs travel free.
Quiet zone
east_midlands_trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 7m
Cheapest Price
$181
east_midlands_trains frequency
16 a day
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 Norwich to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Norwich 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 Norwich to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $114, while the average price is around $127.
The train from Norwich to Preston takes 4h 39m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Norwich to Preston leaves at 5:33 AM.
The distance by train from Norwich to Preston is 183 miles (296 km).
The last train from Norwich to Preston leaves at 8:08 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Norwich to Preston.
There is no direct train service currently available from Norwich to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Norwich to Preston.
The train station in Norwich that goes to Preston is Norwich station (NRW), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Norwich to Preston is by bus, with a cost of around $48.
The train journey from Norwich to Preston offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including picturesque views of the English countryside, charming villages, and the opportunity to see diverse landscapes as the route passes through various regions of England.
A day trip from Norwich to Preston is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 39m, and trains run 5 times per day. The distance is 183 miles (296 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 Norwich to Preston.
Since neither Norwich 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 Norwich 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 Norwich to Preston
Most Norwich to Preston trains use the Norwich to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Norwich and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Norwich
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Norwich station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Norwich to Preston leave from Norwich. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Norwich city centre at Norwich station, Station Approach, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 1EF.
NorwichNorwich station, Station Approach, Norwich, Norfolk, NR1 1EF
City-centre transport
Getting to Norwich from Norwich city centre
Bus8, 35, 8A, 9, 2, 8C · 2m · $2 · every ~14 min
132 · 14m · $2
Norwich train station facilities and services
Norwich has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Norwich.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Norwich. ATMs are available at Norwich.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Norwich. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 0800 028 28 78, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Norwich: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Norwich: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Norwich: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Details of nearest taxis are shown on station information poster, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Ticket machines are located in the ticket hall and on the station concourse, 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 Norwich arrive at?
Trains from Norwich 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 · $11 · 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 Norwich
More options for your journey from Norwich to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Norwich
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