- 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 Oxford to Preston
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$75
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$117
Fastest journey on Sep 05
3 h 11 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
3 h 12 m
Trains on Sep 05
4
Distance
245 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Oxford to Preston is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Oxford to Preston will cost around $117 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 05, we found 4 trains from Oxford to Preston, including 4 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 05 the direct trains cover the 245 km distance in an average of 3 h 12 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 11 m .
On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest trains will take 3 h 12 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.
10:40 AM3h11Oxford1:51 PMPreston$751One-way0 transfers- 11:39 AM3h12Oxford2:51 PMPreston$1291One-way0 transfers
- 12:39 PM3h12Oxford3:51 PMPreston$1311One-way0 transfers
11:40 AM3h11Oxford2:51 PMPreston$1321One-way0 transfers
- 11:40 AM3h11Oxford2:51 PMPreston$1321One-way0 transfers
- 10:40 AM3h11Oxford1:51 PMPreston$751One-way0 transfers
- 12:39 PM3h12Oxford3:51 PMPreston$1311One-way0 transfers
- 11:39 AM3h12Oxford2:51 PMPreston$1291One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Oxford to Preston
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Oxford to Preston among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $60 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 34m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $60, while a train costs an average of $124.
Distance: 152 miles (245 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$124 Average price | $60 Average price Cheapest | $82 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 34m Average total duration Fastest 3h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 32m Average total duration 6h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg 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 Oxford to Preston is a bus with an average price of $60 (€48).
This is compared to other travel options from Oxford to Preston:
A bus is $64 (€52) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Oxford to Preston costing on average $124 (€100).
The fastest way to travel from Oxford to Preston is by train with an average journey time of 3h 4m.
Other travel options to Preston take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 2m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Oxford and Preston including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Oxford 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 20m sooner (3h 4m by train vs 3h 24m by car). Tickets start at around $124 (€100) compared to roughly $82 (€66) 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.
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
Oxford to Preston train times
The table below shows live departures for Oxford to Preston trains for today, Friday, September 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:08 PM Oxford | 4h42 | 10:50 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 5 | |||||
| 10:40 AM Oxford | 3h11 | 1:51 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:39 AM Oxford | 3h12 | 2:51 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:40 AM Oxford | 3h11 | 2:51 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:39 PM Oxford | 3h12 | 3:51 PM Preston | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Oxford 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 05
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Sep 06
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Sep 07
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Sep 08
Wed
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Sep 09
Thu
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Fri
Sep 11
Sep 11
Why should you book Oxford to Preston trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as CrossCountry or Cross Country offer trains services from Oxford to Preston.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Oxford 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 CrossCountry or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Oxford 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Oxford 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 CrossCountry or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Oxford to Preston.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Oxford to Preston.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Oxford to Preston
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Oxford to Preston run on average 9 times per day, taking around 3h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $75 (€61) but you can travel from only $37 (€30) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:20, the last at 21:09. The fastest train covers the 152 miles (245 km) distance in 2h 42m.
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 $37 (€30)
Distance 152 miles (245 km) |
Average train duration 3h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $75 (€61) |
Trains per day 9 |
Fastest train 2h 42m |
First train 5:20 AM |
Last train 9:09 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $37 (€30)
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Lumo from Oxford to Preston trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Lumo trains will get you between Oxford and Preston from $37 (€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 Avanti West Coast Duration
2h 47m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$75 (€61)
Avanti West Coast frequency
6 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
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
2h 57m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$78 (€63)
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
Lumo
About
Lumo are an open access operator launched in 2021 owned by FirstGroup providing train travel from London to Scotland and the North-East of England. It runs between London and Edinburgh along the East Coast Main Line. Lumo trains offer 100% electric travel along with amenities like comforable seating, free WiFi & their LumoEats at-seat catering in their single Standard Class. Lumo offered two ticket types their advance tickets LumoFixed which are only valid on the date and train booked but are exchangeable prior to departure and their Anytime tickets which can be used on any Lumo train on the date of your ticket.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Lumo Duration
2h 42m
Cheapest Lumo Price
$112 (€91)
Lumo frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of hand luggage and one piece of hold luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refunds according to ticket type conditions
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled by operator
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class includes complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservation included with all tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces available, accessible toilets, and staff assistance for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs on leads allowed with fee
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 Oxford to Preston
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Oxford 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 Oxford to Preston can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $75 (€61), while the average price is around $124 (€100).
The train from Oxford to Preston takes 2h 42m and runs 9 per day.
The first train from Oxford to Preston leaves at 5:20 AM.
The distance by train from Oxford to Preston is 152 miles (245 km).
The last train from Oxford to Preston leaves at 9:09 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Oxford to Preston.
There is no direct train service currently available from Oxford to Preston.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Oxford to Preston.
The train station in Oxford that goes to Preston is Oxford station (OXF), which connects to Preston station (PRE).
The cheapest way to get from Oxford to Preston is by bus, with a cost of around $37 (€30).
The train journey from Oxford to Preston offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, with highlights including views of the Cotswolds’ rolling hills and picturesque countryside before transitioning through various towns and cities.
A day trip from Oxford to Preston is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 42m. There are 5 train trips available per day. The distance is 152 miles (245 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 Oxford to Preston.
Since neither Oxford 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 Oxford 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 Oxford to Preston
Most Oxford to Preston trains use the Oxford to Preston station pair. Use this guide to compare Oxford and Preston train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Oxford
Arrival train stations in Preston
Which Oxford station do trains to Preston leave from?
Trains from Oxford to Preston leave from Oxford. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Oxford city centre at Oxford station, Park End Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1HS.
OxfordOxford station, Park End Street, Oxford, Oxfordshire, OX1 1HS+44 3451652030
City-centre transport
Getting to Oxford from Oxford city centre
BusS1, Ns1 · 6m · $1 · every ~12 min
5, 3, 3A, 400, N3, N400 · 9m · $2 · every ~66 min
X1, X15, 600 · 9m · $2 · every ~14 min
X20, 120 · 10m · every ~10 min
Oxford train station facilities and services
Oxford has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Oxford.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Oxford. ATMs are available at Oxford.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Oxford.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Oxford: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Oxford: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Oxford: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step Free Category A Station - This station has step free access to all platforms via lifts and an overbridge to access platform 4. Safety warning - Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible taxis: Accessible Taxis available at this station Please request staff assistance or call our free help line for, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: Situated by the ticket office, 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 Oxford arrive at?
Trains from Oxford 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 Oxford
More options for your journey from Oxford to Preston
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Preston and Oxford
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