- Must visit
Grosvenor Museum
An award-winning medical history attraction exploring disease, cures, and public health in a playful way. It is unusual, family-friendly, and increasingly popular.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Preston to Chester
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€41
Average price
€41
Fastest journey
1 h 1 m
Average duration
1 h 16 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
65 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Preston to Chester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Preston to Chester will cost around €41 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €41.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Preston for Chester on Wed, Aug 05, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 65 km distance in an average of 1 h 16 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 1 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 1 h 24 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.
6:00 AM1h11Preston7:11 AMChester€411One-way0 transfers
4:18 PM1h24Preston5:42 PMChester€411One-way0 transfers- 9:00 AM1h01Preston10:01 AMChester€411One-way0 transfers
- 6:18 AM1h23Preston7:41 AMChester€411One-way0 transfers
- 7:18 AM1h23Preston8:41 AMChester€411One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 AM1h01Preston10:01 AMChester€411One-way0 transfers
- 6:00 AM1h11Preston7:11 AMChester€411One-way0 transfers
- 7:18 AM1h23Preston8:41 AMChester€411One-way0 transfers
- 6:18 AM1h23Preston7:41 AMChester€411One-way0 transfers
- 4:18 PM1h24Preston5:42 PMChester€411One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Preston to Chester
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Preston to Chester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €23, and a train costs an average of €18.
Distance: 40 miles (65 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€37 Average price | €24 Average price Cheapest | €16 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
1h 24m Average total duration Fastest 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration 4h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 13m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Preston to Chester is a bus with an average price of €24.
This is compared to other travel options from Preston to Chester:
A bus is €13 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Preston to Chester costing on average €37.
The fastest way to travel from Preston to Chester is by train with an average journey time of 54m.
Other travel options to Chester take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Preston and Chester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Chester 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 (54m by train vs 1h 13m by car). Tickets start at around €37 compared to roughly €16 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 Chester train times
The table below shows live departures for Preston to Chester trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:00 AM Preston | 1h11 | 7:11 AM Chester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:18 AM Preston | 1h23 | 7:41 AM Chester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:18 AM Preston | 1h23 | 8:41 AM Chester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:00 AM Preston | 1h01 | 10:01 AM Chester | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:18 PM Preston | 1h24 | 5:42 PM Chester | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Preston to Chester 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.
Wed
Aug 05
Aug 05
Thu
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Aug 07
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Aug 08
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Aug 11
Why should you book Preston to Chester trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper, Northern Trains Limited and more offer trains services from Preston to Chester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Preston to Chester.
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 Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Chester.
- 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 Chester.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Trip?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper or Northern Trains Limited to find the best option for your trip from Preston to Chester.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Preston to Chester.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Preston to Chester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Preston to Chester run on average 6 times per day, taking around 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €18 if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 03:51, the last at 22:50. The fastest train covers the 40 miles (65 km) distance in 1h 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
Distance 40 miles (65 km) |
Average train duration 54m |
Cheapest ticket price €18 |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 1h 1m |
First train 3:51 AM |
Last train 10:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 3 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, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express from Preston to Chester trainsAvanti West Coast, Northern Rail, Transport for Wales, Caledonian Sleeper, Northern Trains Limited, TransPennine Express trains will get you between Preston and Chester from €18. 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
1h 1m
Cheapest Price
€40
Avanti West Coast frequency
5 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
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
1h 1m
Cheapest Price
€18
Northern Rail frequency
2 a day
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
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
1h 58m
Cheapest Price
€41
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
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
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
2h 14m
Cheapest Price
€37
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
Northern Trains Limited
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 47m
Cheapest Price
€34
Northern Trains Limited frequency
7 a day
TransPennine Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 38m
Cheapest Price
€31
TransPennine Express frequency
5 a day
Complete guide to Chester
Things to do in Chester
Discover the best of Chester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chester trip today.
- Recommended
Cheshire Military Museum
A major museum on Roman Chester with archaeology, reconstructed rooms, and hands-on displays. It is the best place to understand the city’s ancient roots.
- Recommended
Sick to Death
A richly furnished Georgian townhouse showing domestic life across centuries. Costumed interpretation and period interiors make it engaging and memorable.
- Must visit
The Groves
A wide green expanse by the River Dee, popular for walks, picnics, and events. It offers classic views of the water and easy access to central sights.
- Must visit
Chester Walls Walk
A scenic trail following the old city defences with frequent viewpoints and easy access to landmarks. It is one of the best ways to see Chester efficiently.
- Recommended
Eastgate Street
One of Chester’s main shopping streets, lined with historic buildings and Rows. It captures the city’s distinctive mix of heritage and everyday life.
- Vegetarian
Chester Cake
A rich fruit cake packed with currants and spice, long linked to Chester and nearby Cheshire baking traditions.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cheshire Cheese
Crumbly, creamy cow's milk cheese from Cheshire, one of England's oldest named cheeses and a staple of local farming.
- Vegetarian
Cheshire Rarebit
Traditional Cheshire cheese melted with beer, mustard and seasoning on toast; a classic pub and supper dish in the region.
Joseph Benjamin
Established city-centre bistro serving modern British food with local produce in a relaxed, smart setting.
Covino
Popular independent restaurant focused on seasonal small plates, natural wines and creative modern cooking.
The Chester Grosvenor
Refined fine dining by chef Simon Radley at The Chester Grosvenor, known for polished tasting menus and formal service.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining cost less than London, but tourist areas raise prices. Buses are reasonable; central sights are walkable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% at restaurants for good service. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is optional.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Chester Railway Station -> Chester City Centre
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Chester. You can usually tap to buy a single or day ticket from the driver.
- Chester city centre is walkable from Chester Railway Station, but buses are useful for longer trips and outer areas.
FAQs: Trains from Preston to Chester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Preston to Chester 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 Chester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Preston to Chester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €18, while the average price is around €37.
The train from Preston to Chester takes 1h 1m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Preston to Chester leaves at 3:51 AM.
The distance by train from Preston to Chester is 40 miles (65 km).
The last train from Preston to Chester leaves at 10:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Preston to Chester.
There is no direct train service currently available from Preston to Chester.
Yes, there is a night train from Preston to Chester.
The train station in Preston that goes to Chester is Preston station (PRE), which connects to Chester station (CTR).
The cheapest way to get from Preston to Chester is by train, with a cost of around €18.
The train journey from Preston to Chester offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, passing through picturesque landscapes, rolling countryside, and charming towns, providing a pleasant and varied visual experience.
Yes, a day trip from Preston to Chester is feasible, with a travel time of 1h 1m and a distance of 40 miles (65 km). There are 5 trains per day.
In Chester, you can explore Chester Zoo, one of the UK's largest zoos, and the Grosvenor Museum with its local history exhibits. Enjoy the scenic River Dee with a walk or boat trip. Visit Storyhouse for theatre, cinema, and library experiences. Discover military history at the Cheshire Military Museum. Don't miss Chester Cathedral's stunning architecture, the Chester Roman Amphitheatre, the medieval Chester City Walls, the iconic Eastgate Clock, and The Rows for unique shopping experiences.
To fully experience Chester, two to three days are ideal. This allows time to explore its historic attractions, such as the Roman walls, Chester Cathedral, and the historic Rows, as well as enjoy its shops and dining options.
Yes, you can take the train from Preston to Chester.
Since neither Preston nor Chester 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 Chester include Manchester, Liverpool, Shrewsbury, Crewe, Stockport.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Preston to Chester 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 Chester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the city center and near popular attractions. Be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed taxis or pre-booked transportation. Scams involving overpriced goods or services can occur in busy tourist spots, so it's advisable to agree on prices beforehand and be vigilant when approached by street vendors.
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 Chester
Most Preston to Chester trains use the Preston to Chester station pair. Use this guide to compare Preston and Chester 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 Chester
Which Preston station do trains to Chester leave from?
Trains from Preston to Chester 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 Chester station do trains from Preston arrive at?
Trains from Preston to Chester arrive at Chester. Chester is 0 miles (1 km) from Chester city centre.
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester from Chester city centre
Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus100, 16 · 4m · €4 · every ~2 min
Chester train station facilities and services
Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Chester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, 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, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Most popular train connections from Preston
More options for your journey from Preston to Chester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Chester and Preston
Most popular train connections to Chester
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