Nottingham to Preston train with East Midlands Railway

Sun, Jun 21
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East Midlands Railway
Northern Rail
Transpennine Express
east_midlands_trains
Cross Country
2,000+ travel companies
East Midlands Railway
Northern Rail
Transpennine Express
east_midlands_trains
Cross Country
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Nottingham to Preston

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Nottingham to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $34. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $34, and a train costs an average of $30.

Distance: 85 miles (138 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$62

Average price

$50

Average price

Cheapest

$38

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 29m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 6m

Average total duration

5h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 26m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

East Midlands Railway

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Nottingham to Preston is a bus with an average price of $50 (€41).

This is compared to other travel options from Nottingham to Preston:

A bus is $12 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Nottingham to Preston costing on average $62 (€51).

The fastest way to travel from Nottingham to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 2h 59m.

Other travel options to Preston take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 36m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Nottingham and Preston including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Nottingham 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 $62 (€51) compared to roughly $38 (€31) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-24.62 (€-20.14). The journey takes 2h 59m versus 2h 26m 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.

Compare prices and tickets Nottingham to Preston 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
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Jun 23
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Jun 27

Why should you book Nottingham to Preston trains with Omio?

East Midlands Railway as well as Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Nottingham to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Nottingham 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 Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, east_midlands_trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Nottingham 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Nottingham to Preston.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Rome2rio or Trip?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, east_midlands_trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Nottingham to Preston.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Nottingham to Preston.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Nottingham to Preston

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Nottingham to Preston run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $30 (€25) if you book in advance.

The earliest train runs at 05:08, the last at 22:47. The fastest train covers the 85 miles (138 km) distance in 2h 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
85 miles (138 km)
Average train duration
2h 59m
Cheapest ticket price
$30 (€25)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
2h 47m
First train
5:08 AM
Last train
10:47 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
28 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: East Midlands Railway, Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country from Nottingham to Preston trainsEast Midlands Railway, Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Nottingham and Preston from $30 (€25). 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
2h 47m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€25)
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

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 Duration
7h 52m
Cheapest Price
$84 (€69)
Northern Rail frequency
1 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

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 Duration
3h 31m
Cheapest Price
$74 (€60)
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_trains

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 28m
Cheapest Price
$51 (€42)
east_midlands_trains frequency
22 a day

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest Price
$104 (€85)
Cross Country frequency
2 a day

FAQs: Trains from Nottingham to Preston

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Nottingham 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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Nottingham to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $30 (€25), while the average price is around $62 (€51).
The train from Nottingham to Preston takes 2h 47m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Nottingham to Preston leaves at 5:08 AM.
The distance by train from Nottingham to Preston is 85 miles (138 km).
The last train from Nottingham to Preston leaves at 10:47 PM.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Nottingham to Preston.
There is no direct train service currently available from Nottingham to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Nottingham to Preston.
The train station in Nottingham that goes to Preston is Nottingham station (NOT), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Nottingham to Preston is by train, with a cost of around $30 (€25).
The train journey from Nottingham to Preston offers varied scenery, including views of the English countryside, rolling hills, and charming small towns, making it a pleasant and scenic route.
A day trip from Nottingham to Preston may not be feasible as the travel duration is 2h 47m. However, there are 7 trains per day covering the distance of 85 miles (138 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 Nottingham to Preston.
Since neither Nottingham 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 Nottingham 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 Nottingham to Preston

Most Nottingham to Preston trains use the Nottingham to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Nottingham and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Nottingham
Arrival train stations in Preston

Which Nottingham station do trains to Preston leave from?

Trains from Nottingham to Preston leave from Nottingham. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Nottingham city centre at Nottingham station, Carrington Street, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG2 3AQ.
NottinghamNottingham station, Carrington Street, Nottingham, Nottinghamshire, NG2 3AQ+44 800 200 6060ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Nottingham from Nottingham city centre

Bus9B, 8, 11, 6, 10, 9, 11C, 10C, 10X, 7, 5, 5A, 11B, 12, 12C, 12E, 10A · 3m · every ~58 min
48, 1, 3, 48X, 1A, 48A, 3A, N4, 1B, 1E · 4m · every ~24 min
Kc · 5m · $5 · every ~12 min
20 · 10m
TramTram · 4m · $5 · every ~58 min

Nottingham train station facilities and services

Nottingham has practical services for this route, including 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 Nottingham.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Nottingham.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Nottingham. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23, 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 Nottingham: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Nottingham: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Nottingham: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a category A access station. There are lifts available to all platforms and there is level and ramp access to the concourse and ticket office/machines. This station has tactile paving at the edge of each platform, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: none, Accessible taxis: Taxi number displayed on useful information poster at station, 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.

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