- Must visit
Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum
Victorian villa museum with local history, archaeology, and rotating exhibitions in one of Bournemouth’s most important heritage buildings.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Bournemouth
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
€145
Average price
€145
Fastest journey
5 h 56 m
Average duration
5 h 56 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
343 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Bournemouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Bournemouth will cost around €145 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €145.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Preston for Bournemouth on Tue, Aug 04, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 04 the direct trains cover the 343 km distance in an average of 5 h 56 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 5 h 56 m .
On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest trains will take 5 h 56 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.
3:20 PM5h56Preston9:16 PMBournemouth€1451One-way0 transfers
- 3:20 PM5h56Preston9:16 PMBournemouth€1451One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Preston to Bournemouth
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Bournemouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €36. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €36, and a train costs an average of €47.
Distance: 213 miles (343 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€104 Average price | €55 Average price Cheapest | €88 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 38m Average total duration Fastest 5h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 55m Average total duration 10h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Bournemouth is a bus with an average price of €55.
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Bournemouth:
A bus is €48 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Bournemouth costing on average €104.
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Bournemouth is by train with an average journey time of 5h 8m.
Other travel options to Bournemouth take longer:
Bus takes on average 10h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Bournemouth including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Bournemouth 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 €104 compared to roughly €88 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-16.10. The journey takes 5h 8m versus 5h 0m 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
Preston to Bournemouth train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Bournemouth trains for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:20 AM Preston | 5h52 | 1:12 PM Bournemouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Bournemouth 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.
Tue
Aug 04
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Why should you book Preston to Bournemouth trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or Caledonian Sleeper offer trains services from Preston to Bournemouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Bournemouth.
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 Avanti West Coast or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Bournemouth.
- 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Bournemouth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Bournemouth.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Bournemouth.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Bournemouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Bournemouth run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 8m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €47 but you can travel from only €36 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:12, the last at 21:18. The fastest train covers the 213 miles (343 km) distance in 5h 1m.
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 €36
Distance 213 miles (343 km) |
Average train duration 5h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price €47 |
Trains per day 5 |
Fastest train 5h 1m |
First train 5:12 AM |
Last train 9:18 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €36
Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper from Preston to Bournemouth trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Preston and Bournemouth from €36. 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 51m
Cheapest Price
€47
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
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 Duration
5h 1m
Cheapest Price
€135
Avanti West Coast frequency
9 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
Caledonian Sleeper
About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 51m
Cheapest Price
€143
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Bournemouth
Things to do in Bournemouth
Discover the best of Bournemouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Bournemouth trip today.
- Recommended
Red House Museum and Gardens
Volunteer-run local museum covering Christchurch history, archaeology, and community life in a characterful period setting.
- Recommended
Bournemouth Aviation Museum
Specialist aviation museum at Bournemouth Airport displaying historic aircraft, cockpits, and memorabilia for enthusiasts and families.
- Must visit
Bournemouth Beach
Long sandy beach and promenade area at the resort’s core, ideal for classic seaside walks, sunsets, and easy access to the pier.
- Must visit
Lower Gardens
Victorian gardens running through the town center, popular for strolling, seasonal events, and a green link from square to sea.
- Recommended
Alum Chine
Clifftop and chine with woodland paths descending to a quieter beach, loved for views and a more local atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Dorset Crab
Fresh crab landed on the Dorset coast, often served simply in salads or sandwiches. It is prized locally for its sweet flavour and seaside freshness.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Dorset Blue Vinny
A traditional Dorset blue cheese with a crumbly texture and strong savoury taste. It reflects the county’s long farmhouse cheesemaking heritage.
Fish And Chips
Classic fish and chips made with fresh south coast fish. It is a staple British seaside meal strongly associated with Bournemouth beach outings.
Chez Fred
Casual Bournemouth institution famous for hearty fish and chips close to the beach, ideal for a classic seaside meal.
The Crab At Bournemouth
Refined seafood-focused fine dining in a stylish setting near the coast, known for tasting menus and polished service.
WestBeach
Busy traditional seafood spot by the seafront, popular for fish and chips, shellfish, and relaxed coastal dining.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK seaside town: hotels peak in summer, dining is mid-priced, and local buses are fairly affordable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if not already added. Round up or add a little for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but spare change is appreciated.
More Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Bournemouth Railway Station -> Bournemouth Square
- Distance
- 1.9 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Morebus services, including tap on and tap off on supported routes.
- Most local buses and rail services arrive near Bournemouth Square; use the More Bus app for live departures and mobile tickets.
FAQs: Trains from Preston to Bournemouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Bournemouth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €47, while the average price is around €104.
The train from Preston to Bournemouth takes 5h 1m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Preston to Bournemouth leaves at 5:12 AM.
The distance by train from Preston to Bournemouth is 213 miles (343 km).
The last train from Preston to Bournemouth leaves at 9:18 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Bournemouth.
There is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Bournemouth.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Bournemouth.
The train station in Preston that goes to Bournemouth is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Bournemouth station (BMH).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Bournemouth is by bus, with a cost of around €36.
The train journey from Preston to Bournemouth offers some scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the English countryside, including stretches near the Peak District and the rolling hills of southern England.
A day trip from Preston to Bournemouth is not feasible as the journey takes 5h 1m. There are 5 trains available per day.
In Bournemouth, you can explore the Oceanarium to discover marine life, enjoy the floral displays and events at Lower Gardens, or visit Boscombe Chine Gardens for mini-golf and water play. Nature enthusiasts can head to Hengistbury Head for hiking and birdwatching. For aviation history, the Bournemouth Aviation Museum offers an interactive experience. Relax on the sandy expanses of Bournemouth Beach, or stroll along the Victorian-era Bournemouth Pier for entertainment and dining. The Russell-Cotes Art Gallery & Museum houses a diverse art collection, while Bournemouth Gardens provide a picturesque setting for walks and picnics. Don't miss St. Peter's Church, with its stunning architecture and the resting place of Mary Shelley.
To fully enjoy Bournemouth's attractions, beaches, and nearby areas, 2 to 3 days are typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Bournemouth.
Since neither Preston nor Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth include Southampton, New Milton, Reading, Brockenhurst, Portsmouth.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Bournemouth 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 Bournemouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like beaches and nightlife spots. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It's advisable to use licensed taxis, keep valuables secure, and stay vigilant in busy public places to 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 Preston to Bournemouth
Most Preston to Bournemouth trains use the Preston to Bournemouth station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Bournemouth train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Preston
Arrival train stations in Bournemouth
Which Preston station do trains to Bournemouth leave from?
Trains from Preston to Bournemouth leave from Preston. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Preston city centre at Fishergate, Preston PR1 8AP, United Kingdom.
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 · €9 · 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.
Which Bournemouth station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Bournemouth arrive at Bournemouth. Bournemouth is 0 miles (1 km) from Bournemouth city centre.
BournemouthBournemouth station, Holdenhurst Road, Bournemouth, Dorset, BH8 8HX+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Bournemouth from Bournemouth city centre
Bournemouth is 1 km from Bournemouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus13, 5, 6, 50, m1, 12, 13A, N5, N1, 11, 21 · 6m · €2 · every ~74 min
m1, 5, 6, 50, 13, 12, 13A, 21, 11, N5, N1 · 7m · €2 · every ~74 min
Bournemouth train station facilities and services
Bournemouth has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Bournemouth.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Bournemouth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Bournemouth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Bournemouth: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Bournemouth: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Bournemouth: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B2 station. Level access to both sides of station from separate entrances. Long and steep ramped subway between platforms - up to 1:8 gradient Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Bournemouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Bournemouth and Preston
Most popular train connections to Bournemouth
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