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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Cheltenham
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$119
Average price
$120
Fastest journey
2 h 32 m
Average duration
2 h 32 m
Trains per day
14
Distance
212 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Cheltenham is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Cheltenham will cost around $120 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $119.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Preston to Cheltenham without transferring at least once.
8:59 AM3h09Preston12:08 PMCheltenham$1191One-way2 transfers- 8:59 PM12h31Preston9:30 AMCheltenham$1191One-way1 transfer
- 10:17 AM2h33Preston12:50 PMCheltenham$1201One-way1 transfer
- 11:18 AM2h32Preston1:50 PMCheltenham$1201One-way1 transfer
- 12:18 PM2h32Preston2:50 PMCheltenham$1201One-way1 transfer
- 11:18 AM2h32Preston1:50 PMCheltenham$1201One-way1 transfer
- 12:18 PM2h32Preston2:50 PMCheltenham$1201One-way1 transfer
- 1:18 PM2h32Preston3:50 PMCheltenham$1201One-way1 transfer
- 2:18 PM2h32Preston4:50 PMCheltenham$1201One-way1 transfer
- 3:18 PM2h32Preston5:50 PMCheltenham$1201One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Preston to Cheltenham
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Cheltenham among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $54. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 34m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $54, and a train costs an average of $54.
Distance: 131 miles (212 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$83 Average price | $57 Average price Cheapest | $55 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 4m Average total duration Fastest 2h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 10m Average total duration 7h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Cheltenham is a bus with an average price of $57 (€47).
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Cheltenham:
A bus is $26 (€21) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Cheltenham costing on average $83 (€68).
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Cheltenham is by train with an average journey time of 2h 34m.
Other travel options to Cheltenham take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Cheltenham including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Cheltenham 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 19m sooner (2h 34m by train vs 2h 53m by car). Tickets start at around $83 (€68) compared to roughly $55 (€45) 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
Preston to Cheltenham train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Cheltenham trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:59 AM Preston | 3h09 | 12:08 PM Cheltenham | 2 transfers | |
| 10:17 AM Preston | 2h33 | 12:50 PM Cheltenham | 1 transfer | |
| 11:18 AM Preston | 2h32 | 1:50 PM Cheltenham | 1 transfer | |
| 12:18 PM Preston | 2h32 | 2:50 PM Cheltenham | 1 transfer | |
| 1:18 PM Preston | 2h32 | 3:50 PM Cheltenham | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Cheltenham by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
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Jun 21
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Why should you book Preston to Cheltenham trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Caledonian Sleeper offer trains services from Preston to Cheltenham.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Cheltenham.
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 Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Cheltenham.
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Preston to Cheltenham.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Caledonian Sleeper to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Cheltenham.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Cheltenham.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Cheltenham
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Cheltenham run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $54 (€44) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:50, the last at 20:40. The fastest train covers the 131 miles (212 km) distance in 2h 55m.
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 131 miles (212 km) |
Average train duration 2h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $54 (€44) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 2h 55m |
First train 5:50 AM |
Last train 8:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 14 days |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper from Preston to Cheltenham trainsAvanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Preston and Cheltenham from $54 (€44). 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 Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
$54 (€44)
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
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
3h 37m
Cheapest Price
$130 (€106)
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
FAQs: Trains from Preston to Cheltenham
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Cheltenham can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $54 (€44), while the average price is around $83 (€68).
The train from Preston to Cheltenham takes 2h 55m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Preston to Cheltenham leaves at 5:50 AM.
The distance by train from Preston to Cheltenham is 131 miles (212 km).
The last train from Preston to Cheltenham leaves at 8:40 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Cheltenham.
There is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Cheltenham.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Cheltenham.
The train station in Preston that goes to Cheltenham is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Cheltenham Spa (CNM).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Cheltenham is by train, with a cost of around $54 (€44).
The train journey from Preston to Cheltenham offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the countryside of the Midlands, showcasing rolling hills, charming villages, and lush landscapes.
A day trip from Preston to Cheltenham is not feasible, as the journey takes 2h 55m. There are 5 trains per day covering the 131 miles (212 km) route.
In Cheltenham, you can enjoy the renowned Cheltenham Literature Festival, take a scenic walk or boat ride at Pittville Park, and explore diverse art collections at The Wilson Art Gallery and Museum. Experience the thrill of horse racing at Cheltenham Racecourse and discover vibrant cafes and boutique shops in the Montpellier District. Don't miss the historic Pittville Pump Room and the Sandford Parks Lido for outdoor swimming.
For a fulfilling experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Cheltenham allows you to explore its Regency architecture, enjoy cultural attractions like the Cheltenham Festivals, and visit nearby Cotswolds villages.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Cheltenham.
Since neither Preston nor Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham include Bristol, Birmingham, Gloucester, Stonehouse, Cardiff.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Cheltenham 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 Cheltenham, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially during busy events like the Cheltenham Festival. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers and fake charity collectors. It’s advisable to use licensed transportation and stay vigilant in crowded areas.
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 Cheltenham
Preston
Cheltenham
The major train station for departures in Preston is Preston. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Preston for your trip from Preston to Cheltenham.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 5:30 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 6:30 AM - 7:00 PM Saturday
- 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Sunday
Distance to city center
1 km
Number of platforms
6Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24 hours, located adjacent to the station with access from Butler Street
Dining
- Rise
- The Olive Tree Brasserie
- Turtle Bay
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- £0.30
Hotel
- Holiday Inn Express Preston - South
- Delta Hotels Preston
- Macdonald Tickled Trout Hotel
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main hall
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main hall
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, platforms 1-3 for long-distance services
- Hall 2: platforms 4-6 for regional and local services
Public transit options for Preston
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: Northern, Avanti West Coast, TransPennine Express services
The major train station for arrivals in Cheltenham is Cheltenham Spa. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cheltenham Spa for your journey to Cheltenham from Preston.
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Address
Cheltenham Spa Railway Station, Queens Road, Cheltenham, Gloucestershire, GL51 8NP, United KingdomTicket Office Hours
- 6:30 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday
- 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday
Distance to city center
1 kmNumber of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7, accessible from Queens Road
Dining
- The Railway Inn
- The Coconut Tree
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- £0.50
Hotel
- Queens Hotel Cheltenham
- DoubleTree by Hilton Hotel Cheltenham
- Hotel du Vin & Bistro Cheltenham
Lost and Found Office
- Located near the main entrance
Bike Parking
- 300 places, covered
Information Desk
- Located near the main entrance
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- The station has a main concourse with ticketing facilities and waiting areas, with platforms accessible via lifts and stairs.
Public transit options for Cheltenham Spa
- Bus: Several local bus services available
- Taxi: Taxi rank outside the station
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Cheltenham
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cheltenham and Preston
Most popular train connections to Cheltenham
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