Plymouth to Manchester train with CrossCountry

Mon, Jun 01
+ Add return
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Great Western Railway
Cross Country
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Plymouth to Manchester

Showing times and prices for Jun 01

Cheapest price

$114

Average price

$261

Fastest journey

5 h 17 m

Average duration

5 h 44 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

370 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Plymouth to Manchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Plymouth to Manchester will cost around $261 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $114.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Plymouth to Manchester without transferring at least once.

  • CrossCountryG00869_G01067+Transport for WalesG38953+Great Western RailwayGW579900
    8:27 AM6h46
    Plymouth station (PLY)
    3:13 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1141One-way
    2 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01069+Transport for WalesG38983+Great Western RailwayGW579700
    9:27 AM6h46
    Plymouth station (PLY)
    4:13 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $1141One-way
    2 transfers
  • CrossCountryG01073 · G00872
    10:27 AM5h32
    Plymouth station (PLY)
    3:59 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $3281One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG00865+Great Western RailwayG15203
    9:42 AM5h17
    Plymouth station (PLY)
    2:59 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $3281One-way
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG00869_G01067 · G66735
    8:27 AM5h32
    Plymouth station (PLY)
    1:59 PMManchester Piccadilly (MAN)
    $3331One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Plymouth to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Plymouth to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $24. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $24, and a flight costs an average of $60.

Distance: 229 miles (370 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$138

Average price

$40

Average price

Cheapest

$170

Average price

$103

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 13m

Average total duration

5h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 43m

Average total duration

8h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 6m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 6m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

5h 29m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.4 - 0.9kg

CO2 emissions

1.1 - 2.2kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Loganair

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

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 Plymouth to Manchester is a bus with an average price of $40 (€32).

This is compared to other travel options from Plymouth to Manchester:

A bus is $98 (€79) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Plymouth to Manchester costing on average $138 (€111).

A bus is $130 (€105) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Plymouth to Manchester costing on average $170 (€137).

The fastest way to travel from Plymouth to Manchester is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 6m.

Other travel options to Manchester take longer:

Train takes on average 5h 43m.

Bus takes on average 8h 13m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Plymouth and Manchester including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Plymouth to Manchester 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 $138 (€111) compared to roughly $103 (€83) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-34.61 (€-27.86). The journey takes 5h 43m versus 5h 29m 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

Plymouth to Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Plymouth to Manchester trains for today, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG01071 · G00863
On time
9:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY)
5h02
2:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
CrossCountryW29782 · G00867
On time
10:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY)
5h02
3:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
CrossCountryW29782+Great Western RailwayGW229400+Transport for WalesG38982
On time
10:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY)
6h48
5:15 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG01077 · G00874
On time
11:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY)
5h02
4:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG01077+Great Western RailwayGW229200+Transport for WalesG38986
On time
11:27 AM Plymouth station (PLY)
6h46
6:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG00878
On time
12:00 PM Plymouth station (PLY)
5h00
5:00 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
0 transfersDirect
CrossCountryG01078 · G00880
On time
12:27 PM Plymouth station (PLY)
5h02
5:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00731 · G00911
On time
4:27 PM Plymouth station (PLY)
6h02
10:29 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Plymouth to Manchester 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.

Mon
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07

Why should you book Plymouth to Manchester trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Plymouth to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Plymouth to Manchester.

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth to Manchester.
  • 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Plymouth to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Plymouth to Manchester.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Plymouth to Manchester.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Plymouth to Manchester?

The best time to book your train from Plymouth to Manchester is 35 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Plymouth to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Plymouth to Manchester per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Plymouth to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Plymouth to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Plymouth to Manchester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $55 (€44) but you can travel from only $24 (€20) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:37, the last at 18:30. The fastest train covers the 229 miles (370 km) distance in 5h 0m.

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 $24 (€20)
Distance
229 miles (370 km)
Average train duration
5h 43m
Cheapest ticket price
$55 (€44)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
5h 0m
First train
4:37 AM
Last train
6:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Wed
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 $24 (€20)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway, Cross Country from Plymouth to Manchester trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway, Cross Country trains will get you between Plymouth and Manchester from $24 (€20). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 Duration
5h 0m
Cheapest Price
$55 (€44)
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

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 10m
Cheapest Price
$76 (€61)
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking 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 allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Great Western Railway

About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 38m
Cheapest Price
$114 (€92)
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at 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
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 2m
Cheapest Price
$440 (€354)
Cross Country frequency
12 a day

Complete guide to Manchester

Things to do in Manchester

Discover the best of Manchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester trip today.

  • Must visit

Science and Industry Museum

Major museum on the site of the world’s oldest surviving passenger railway station, covering Manchester’s industrial, scientific and computing heritage.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

University museum with renowned collections in natural history, archaeology and world cultures, recently redeveloped and widely praised.

  • Must visit

National Football Museum

Popular museum telling the story of football through trophies, memorabilia and interactive displays in the city centre.

Pound Sterling

Generally cheaper than London. Hotels vary by match days and events, while food, transport, and pubs are mid-priced.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for street food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
GBP 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

Service charge is uncommon outside upscale venues. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is appreciated for good service. Round up taxis. No tip is expected for pubs, takeaways, or counter service.

FAQs: Trains from Plymouth to Manchester

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Plymouth to Manchester 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 Manchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Plymouth to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $55 (€44), while the average price is around $138 (€111).
The train from Plymouth to Manchester takes 5h 0m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Plymouth to Manchester is 229 miles (370 km).
The first train from Plymouth to Manchester leaves at 4:37 AM.
The last train from Plymouth to Manchester leaves at 6:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Plymouth to Manchester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Plymouth to Manchester.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Plymouth to Manchester.
The train station in Plymouth that goes to Manchester is Plymouth station (PLY), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Plymouth to Manchester is by bus, with a cost of around $24 (€20).
The train journey from Plymouth to Manchester offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of Devon and the rolling hills of the English countryside, providing a pleasant visual experience for travelers.
A day trip from Plymouth to Manchester is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 0m. However, there are 6 train trips available per day covering a distance of 229 miles (370 km).
In Manchester, you can explore Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, with its tours and museum. Discover the Northern Quarter, known for its independent shops and street art, or enjoy a captivating performance at the Manchester Opera House. For nightlife, check out Deansgate Locks' bars and clubs. Spend a relaxing day at Heaton Park, one of Europe's largest municipal parks. Visit the Manchester Art Gallery, Science and Industry Museum, and see the stunning architecture of Manchester Cathedral. The John Rylands Library offers a look at rare manuscripts, while Castlefield invites leisurely strolls through its historic ruins and canals.
To fully experience Manchester, including its cultural landmarks, museums, and vibrant nightlife, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Plymouth to Manchester.
Since neither Plymouth nor Manchester 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 Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Plymouth to Manchester 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 Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety risks.
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 Plymouth to Manchester

Plymouth
Manchester
The major train station for departures in Plymouth is Plymouth. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Plymouth for your trip from Plymouth to Manchester.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:25 - 20:00 Saturday 05:20 - 19:00 Sunday 08:00 - 20:30
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: WHSmith and Spar Supermarket
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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 the station subway. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
  • Accessible public telephones: Station pay phones are not accessible
  • Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available. Please request staff assistance.
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines note: Accessible ticket machines are located at the station entrance by the ticket office.
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: Yes
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4, Platform 7 and adjacent ticket counters.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • National key toilets location: The radar key is available from station staff.
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities location: Within accessible wc's
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Platforms 3 and 4
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Plymouth
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Front of the station
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: No
  • Step free access note: Step-free category B3 station – “Some step-free access, may be in one direction only.” Step free access possible to South bound platform, there is no step free access for services to Plymouth. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
  • Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Devonport
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Albert Road Bus Stop adjacent to Exmouth Road.
DockyardParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike Parking
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
2 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: No
  • Step free access coverage: No
  • Step free access note: Step free Category C Station - This station does not have step free access to any platform. Safety warning - Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge. Please take extra care when using this station.
  • Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are not available
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transit options for Dockyard
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: From the bus stops on Keyham Road (B3396) near the turning to Keat Street

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