- Recommended
Carnforth Station Heritage Centre
Compact railway museum inside Carnforth station, celebrating local rail heritage and the Brief Encounter film connection.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Carnforth
Showing times and prices for Aug 16
Cheapest price
$23
Average price
$25
Fastest journey
26 m
Average duration
26 m
Trains per day
15
Distance
39 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Carnforth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Carnforth will cost around $25 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.
Fast trains
Of the 15 trains that leave Preston for Carnforth on Sun, Aug 16, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Aug 16 the direct trains cover the 39 km distance in an average of 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 26 m .
On Sun, Aug 16 the slowest trains will take 27 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.
12:54 PM0h29Preston1:23 PMCarnforth$231One-way1 transfer
1:05 PM0h48Preston1:53 PMCarnforth$231One-way1 transfer- 3:05 PM0h57Preston4:02 PMCarnforth$231One-way1 transfer
- 3:42 PM0h30Preston4:12 PMCarnforth$231One-way1 transfer
- 5:05 PM0h56Preston6:01 PMCarnforth$231One-way1 transfer
10:39 AM0h26Preston11:05 AMCarnforth$261One-way0 transfers- 2:46 PM0h26Preston3:12 PMCarnforth$261One-way0 transfers
- 8:48 PM0h26Preston9:14 PMCarnforth$261One-way0 transfers
- 5:46 PM0h27Preston6:13 PMCarnforth$261One-way0 transfers
- 7:46 PM0h27Preston8:13 PMCarnforth$261One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train for Preston to Carnforth
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Carnforth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $10. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 26m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $10, and a train costs an average of $10.
Distance: 24 miles (39 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$16 Average price Cheapest | $11 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
56m Average total duration Fastest 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 36m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Carnforth is a train with an average price of $16 (€13).
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Carnforth is by train with an average journey time of 26m.
Yes, you can take a train between Preston and Carnforth.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Carnforth 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 10m sooner (26m by train vs 36m by car). Tickets start at around $16 (€13) compared to roughly $11 (€9) 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.
Direct services run with Northern Trains Limited.
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
Preston to Carnforth train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Carnforth trains for tomorrow, Sunday, August 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:48 AM Preston | 0h32 | 10:20 AM Carnforth | 1 transfer | |
| 10:39 AM Preston | 0h26 | 11:05 AM Carnforth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:54 PM Preston | 0h29 | 1:23 PM Carnforth | 1 transfer | |
| 1:05 PM Preston | 0h48 | 1:53 PM Carnforth | 1 transfer | |
| 2:46 PM Preston | 0h26 | 3:12 PM Carnforth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:05 PM Preston | 0h57 | 4:02 PM Carnforth | 1 transfer | |
| 3:42 PM Preston | 0h30 | 4:12 PM Carnforth | 1 transfer | |
| 4:47 PM Preston | 0h28 | 5:15 PM Carnforth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:05 PM Preston | 0h56 | 6:01 PM Carnforth | 1 transfer | |
| 5:46 PM Preston | 0h27 | 6:13 PM Carnforth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:42 PM Preston | 0h29 | 7:11 PM Carnforth | 1 transfer | |
| 7:46 PM Preston | 0h27 | 8:13 PM Carnforth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:56 PM Preston | 0h33 | 8:29 PM Carnforth | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Carnforth by train
Compare train prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Sun
Aug 16
Aug 16
Mon
Aug 17
Aug 17
Tue
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Aug 18
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Aug 19
Aug 19
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Aug 20
Aug 20
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Aug 21
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Aug 22
Aug 22
Why should you book Preston to Carnforth trains with Omio?
Northern Rail as well as Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Preston to Carnforth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Carnforth.
Why book with Omio vs Northern Rail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Northern Rail, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Carnforth.
- 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.
Why book with Omio over Trip, Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Carnforth.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Carnforth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Carnforth run on average 5 times per day, taking around 26m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $10 (€8) if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:18, the last at 23:10. The fastest train covers the 24 miles (39 km) distance in 27m.
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 24 miles (39 km) |
Average train duration 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $10 (€8) |
Trains per day 5 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 27m |
First train 5:18 AM |
Last train 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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: Northern Rail, Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited from Preston to Carnforth trainsNorthern Rail, Transpennine Express, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express, Northern Trains Limited trains will get you between Preston and Carnforth from $10 (€8). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Northern Rail
About
Northern Trains is a publicly owned train operating company in the United Kingdom, headquartered in York. It runs local and commuter services across the north of England, connecting regions including the North East, North West, East Midlands, Staffordshire, Yorkshire, and the Humber coastline. As part of the National Rail network, Northern operates under a coordinated fare and ticketing system alongside other UK train companies.Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Anytime Day, single, return, and season tickets, with only one class option available: Standard. Onboard amenities may include comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments on select services. Popular routes include connections between major northern cities such as Manchester, Liverpool, and Leeds.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
27m
Cheapest Price
$10 (€8)
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
See refund policy for ticket types
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most services with drinks and snacks. Some stations have cafes and shops
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking advance tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Transpennine Express
About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
33m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€17)
Transpennine Express frequency
2 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
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
30m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
Avanti West Coast frequency
4 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
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
29m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
TransPennine Express frequency
6 a day
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
26m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
Northern Trains Limited frequency
7 a day
Complete guide to Carnforth
Things to do in Carnforth
Discover the best of Carnforth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Carnforth trip today.
- Recommended
Lancaster City Museum
Local history museum in nearby Lancaster covering archaeology, maritime stories, and the city's Roman and Georgian past.
- Recommended
Lancaster Maritime Museum
Engaging maritime museum in a historic warehouse, exploring Lancaster's port, trade, and links to the wider world.
- Recommended
Warton Crag
National nature reserve of limestone pavements and rare wildlife, popular for scenic walks and striking geological features.
- Recommended
Lancaster Canal Towpath
Canalside walking area with towpaths, bridges, and peaceful waterside scenery popular with walkers and cyclists.
- Recommended
Arnside Promenade
Attractive estuary viewpoint and walking area known for birdlife, sea air, and open views across Morecambe Bay.
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Hotpot
A rich Lancashire stew of lamb or mutton, onions and root vegetables, slow-cooked for comfort on cold northern days.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Lancashire Cheese
Crumbly regional cheese from Lancashire, often served young, tasty or mature, prized for its tangy, creamy character.
- Vegetarian
Lancaster Amber Ale
A historic ale from nearby Lancaster, known locally for malty, balanced flavour and strong ties to the area’s brewing tradition.
Spice Touch
Well-regarded Indian restaurant in Carnforth serving curries, tandoori dishes and friendly sit-down dining.
Brief Encounter Refreshment Room
Popular local café and bakery for breakfasts, sandwiches, cakes and coffee in a casual town-centre setting.
The Canal Turn
Traditional canal-side pub in Carnforth known for British classics, cask ales and a relaxed historic setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Rooms, pub meals, and rail fares are usually lower than big cities, but tourist season can raise hotel prices.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a pub or restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common for good service if not already added. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is not expected but appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Carnforth Railway Station -> Market Street, Carnforth
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Most local buses are operated by Stagecoach; contactless card payment is accepted on board on many services.
- Carnforth is compact, so the town centre is walkable from the rail station in about 10 min.
FAQs: Trains from Preston to Carnforth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Carnforth 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 Carnforth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Carnforth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $10 (€8), while the average price is around $16 (€13).
The train from Preston to Carnforth takes 27m and runs 5 per day.
The first train from Preston to Carnforth leaves at 5:18 AM.
The distance by train from Preston to Carnforth is 24 miles (39 km).
The last train from Preston to Carnforth leaves at 11:10 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Carnforth.
Yes, there is a direct train from Preston to Carnforth. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Northern Trains Limited.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Preston to Carnforth.
The train station in Preston that goes to Carnforth is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Carnforth station (CNF).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Carnforth is by train, with a cost of around $10 (€8).
Yes, the train journey from Preston to Carnforth offers scenic views, passing through picturesque countryside and rural landscapes typical of North West England.
Yes, a day trip from Preston to Carnforth is feasible. The journey takes 27m each way, and there are 4 trains available per day. The distance is 24 miles (39 km).
Two to three days in Carnforth allows for exploring its charming attractions, including the Carnforth Station Heritage Centre, nearby walking trails, and local markets, providing a fulfilling visit.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Carnforth.
Since neither Preston nor Carnforth 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 Carnforth include Stockport, Manchester, Leeds, Gatley, Wigan.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Carnforth 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 Carnforth, travelers should be aware of typical small-town safety concerns such as petty theft and scams involving overcharging in local taxis. It's advisable to use licensed transportation services and be cautious with personal belongings in busy areas like Carnforth railway station. Overall, Carnforth is considered a safe destination with no major safety issues reported.
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 Carnforth
Most Preston to Carnforth trains use the Preston to Carnforth station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Carnforth 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 Carnforth
Which Preston station do trains to Carnforth leave from?
Trains from Preston to Carnforth 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 · $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.
Which Carnforth station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Carnforth arrive at Carnforth. Carnforth is 0 miles (1 km) from Carnforth city centre.
CarnforthCarnforth station, Market Street, Carnforth, Lancashire, LA5 9ET
City-centre transport
Getting to Carnforth from Carnforth city centre
Carnforth is 1 km from Carnforth city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus49, 51 · 2m · $11 · every ~3 min
Carnforth train station facilities and services
Carnforth has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Carnforth.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carnforth: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Carnforth: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carnforth: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station Ramp access to both platforms using a subway, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Carnforth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Carnforth and Preston
Most popular train connections to Carnforth
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