- 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 Nottingham to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$112
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$112
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h 47 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
2 h 55 m
Trains on Sep 19
4
Distance
138 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Nottingham to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Nottingham to Preston will cost around $112 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $112.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Nottingham to Preston without transferring at least once.
C04451+
G890659:45 AM2h48Nottingham station (NOT)12:33 PMPreston station (PRE)$1121One-way1 transfer- C04448+G890478:45 AM2h47Nottingham station (NOT)11:32 AMPreston station (PRE)$1121One-way1 transfer
- C21319+
W337538:53 AM2h59Nottingham station (NOT)11:52 AMPreston station (PRE)$1121One-way1 transfer - C04448+W337538:45 AM3h07Nottingham station (NOT)11:52 AMPreston station (PRE)$1121One-way1 transfer
- C04448+G890478:45 AM2h47Nottingham station (NOT)11:32 AMPreston station (PRE)$1121One-way1 transfer
- C04451+G890659:45 AM2h48Nottingham station (NOT)12:33 PMPreston station (PRE)$1121One-way1 transfer
- C21319+W337538:53 AM2h59Nottingham station (NOT)11:52 AMPreston station (PRE)$1121One-way1 transfer
- C04448+W337538:45 AM3h07Nottingham station (NOT)11:52 AMPreston station (PRE)$1121One-way1 transfer
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 an average ticket price of $43 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 5m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, while a train costs an average of $76.
Distance: 85 miles (138 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$76 Average price | $43 Average price Cheapest | $38 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 5m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 49m Average total duration 5h 19m 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 |
Most popular train company |  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 $43.
This is compared to other travel options from Nottingham to Preston:
A bus is $33 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Nottingham to Preston costing on average $76.
The fastest way to travel from Nottingham to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 2h 35m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 19m.
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 $76 compared to roughly $38 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-38.14. The journey takes 2h 35m 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.
Live departures
Nottingham to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Nottingham to Preston trains for tomorrow, 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| C04448+G89047 | 8:45 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 2h47 | 11:32 AM Preston station (PRE) | 1 transfer | |
| C04448+W33753 | 8:45 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 3h07 | 11:52 AM Preston station (PRE) | 1 transfer | |
| C21319+W33753 | 8:53 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 2h59 | 11:52 AM Preston station (PRE) | 1 transfer | |
| C04451+G89065 | 9:45 AM Nottingham station (NOT) | 2h48 | 12:33 PM Preston station (PRE) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Sat
Sep 19
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Mon
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Tue
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Sep 22
Wed
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Sep 25
Sep 25
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
Trains from Nottingham to Preston run on average 4 times per day, taking around 2h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $26 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 16m.
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 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $26 |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 2h 16m |
First train 5:08 AM |
Last train 10:47 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 2 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, Transpennine Express from Nottingham to Preston trainsEast Midlands Railway, Transpennine Express trains will get you between Nottingham and Preston from $27. 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 East Midlands Railway Duration
2h 16m
Cheapest East Midlands Railway Price
$26
East Midlands Railway frequency
4 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
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
2h 27m
Cheapest Transpennine Express Price
$55
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
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 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.
Train ticket prices from Nottingham to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $26, while the average price is around $76.
The train from Nottingham to Preston takes 2h 16m and runs 4 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 bus, with a cost of around $27.
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 16m. 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 6060
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.
Which Preston station do trains from Nottingham arrive at?
Trains from Nottingham 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 Nottingham
More options for your journey from Nottingham to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Nottingham
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